Last Updated on November 4, 2025 by Giorgia Guazzarotti
So you just spent like $200 on eyelash extensions and now you’re standing at your bathroom sink having an actual meltdown about how to wash your face without destroying them. I get it. I’ve been there. You’re probably thinking like, do I just not wash my face now? Do I become one of those people who uses face wipes? (Please don’t.) Fret not, this is totally doable (and honestly not even that hard once you know what you’re doing. Here’s how to wash your face with eyelash extensions.
How Long Should You Wait?
So first off, forget everything you’ve heard about waiting like two days before getting your face wet. That’s old information that needs to die. Your lash technician probably told you to wait 4 hours and that’s it. Literally 4 hours. Not 24, not 48. Just 4.
The lash adhesive they use now cures super fast, so you can get your lashes done at noon and wash your face before bed. Easy. In rare cases your lash artist might say wait a bit longer but that’s pretty unusual. Just do whatever they told you at your lash appointment.
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What Cleanser Should You Use?
Listen to me very carefully – oil will DESTROY your eyelash extensions. Like I’m not being dramatic here. Oil breaks down the lash glue and makes your extensions fall out way faster than they should. And you did not spend all that money to have them fall out in three days.
So anything oil-based? Gone. That fancy cleansing oil you love? Nope. Oil-based cleanser? Absolutely not. Oil-free makeup remover only from now on. You want gel cleansers, foam cleanser, or micellar water. Those are your friends now. Check literally everything – your face wash, your eye makeup remover, your moisturizer. If it has oil anywhere near your eye area, it’s gotta go. I know it sucks but trust me, it’s worth it to keep those lashes looking good.
Related: How To Choose The Right Cleanser For Your Skin Type
Step-by-Step Guide To Face Washing With Eyelash Extension
Alright let’s actually talk about washing your face because this is where people get confused.
Eye Makeup Removal
If you’re still wearing eye makeup (which honestly why, your lashes already look amazing), you gotta remove it super gently. Use your oil-free makeup remover or micellar water but here’s the trick – don’t use a cotton pad on your lashes. The little fibers get stuck in your extensions and it’s super annoying. Just use your ring finger or a damp cloth. Put some product on your finger and gently wipe away any makeup residue. For eyeliner use a cotton swab because you can be more precise. The whole point is don’t tug or pull on those lashes at all.
Actually Washing Your Face
This part is kinda weird at first but you’ll get used to it. Think of your face in two sections – below your cheekbones and above your cheekbones. Below your cheekbones? Wash it normally. Use your facial cleanser, do circular motions, whatever. Just use lukewarm water not hot water because hot water can mess with the glue bond.
Above your cheekbones near your eyes? This is where you gotta be careful. Put your cleanser on and foam it up but don’t let it drip on your lashes. Use a damp washcloth to wipe it off but squeeze out the excess water first. You want damp not dripping wet. You can also cup your hands and gently splash lukewarm water on your face. Just be gentle about it. No aggressive splashing.
Cleaning Your Actual Lashes
Nobody tells you this but you have to actually clean your lash extensions too. Every day. I know, more work, but the buildup of oils and dirt will make them fall out faster and also bacteria buildup can give you an eye infection which is gross. Get a dedicated lash extension cleanser or lash shampoo. Baby shampoo works too but a real lash cleanser is better. Put a tiny amount of lash-safe cleanser on a clean spoolie brush or soft lash brush and gently brush through your lashes from the base of your lashes outward. You can use your ring finger too but be super careful not to pull. Do this every single day. Clean lashes last way longer.
Drying Everything
Pat your face dry with lint-free towels. Don’t rub, just pat. Your lashes need to be completely dry before bed or they’ll dry in weird shapes. You can air dry them which takes forever, use a handheld fan which is actually genius, or use a blow dryer on the coolest lowest setting from far away.
Recommended Products for Extension-Safe Cleansing
So what should you actually buy? Get gel cleansers or foam cleansers that are oil-free. Micellar water is amazing for this. For sensitive skin look for gentle cleansers with no harsh stuff. For your lashes get a real lash cleanser or lash shampoo. And get a clean spoolie brush or soft lash brush for applying it. A good brush makes this so much easier.
Daily Maintenance And Care Tips
- Clean your lashes every day even though it’s annoying. The buildup of dirt and excess oils will wreck your extensions so fast.
- Brush your lashes every morning with a clean spoolie brush after they’re dry. Keeps them fluffy and not tangled.
- If you use lash growth serums apply them to your natural lash line not on the extensions.
- Get a silk pillowcase. Less friction means your lashes last longer.
Showering With Eyelash Extensions
Turn your back to the showerhead so water doesn’t blast your face. When you need to rinse use your hands to gently splash water. Don’t let the water hit your lashes directly because that water pressure will weaken the adhesive bond over time and cause premature shedding. Some people wear goggles in the shower and honestly no judgment, do what works.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use mascara on your extensions. Your lash artist will cry.
- Don’t skip cleaning because you’re tired. Bacteria buildup is real and disgusting.
- Don’t rub your eyes even if they itch. Use eye drops or tap around the area instead.
- Don’t use any oil-based products at all even a little bit. It will break down the lash glue.
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
You’re probably gonna mess up at some point and lose a few lashes. It happens to everyone. Just figure out what went wrong and fix it. Your lash professional can do fills at your next lash appointment. If a LOT of lashes are falling out call your lash lounge because something might be wrong with the adhesive or you’re having a reaction.
Getting Used to Your New Routine
After like a week this becomes totally automatic. You won’t even think about it anymore. It’s just part of your everyday look now. Having clean lashes and a clean face while keeping your extensions looking good is worth the bit of extra effort. The first step is always hardest but then it’s just muscle memory.
Wrapping This Up
Look, washing your face with extensions really isn’t that complicated once you get the hang of it. Just use gentle cleansers with no oil, lukewarm water, be careful around your eye area, clean your lashes every day, and you’re good. Listen to what your lash artist told you instead of just staring at yourself in the mirror the whole time they’re talking. After a week you won’t even think about it anymore and your lashes will look amazing the whole time. Now go wash your face and stop stressing about it!
