Eyelash extensions are a game-changer for a low-maintenance beauty routine. They eliminate the need for mascara and false lashes, making your mornings a breeze. However, when it’s time for those extensions to come off, it can feel like a bit of a nightmare. Whether you can’t visit a professional lash technician right now or simply want to give your lashes a break, there are safe and effective ways to remove eyelash extensions at home without damaging your natural lashes. Here’s how:
Is It Safe To Remove Eyelash Extensions At Home?
For the safety of your eyes and lashes, it’s best to have eyelash extensions removed by a professional whenever possible. Professionals have the right tools and expertise to remove them safely, while a DIY removal could lead to harmful bacteria entering your eyes. However, if you’re unable to visit a professional, there are steps you can take to speed up the removal process at home. Just remember, patience is key as it may take a few days or even longer to remove all the lashes.
How To Remove Eyelash Extensions At Home
When it comes to removing eyelash extensions at home, you need to be extra cautious around your delicate eye area. There are certain beauty hacks that you should never attempt on the sensitive skin of your face and eyes. To help you navigate the process safely, here are seven tried and tested tips:
1. Don’t Pick At Your Lashes
No matter how desperate you are to remove your eyelash extensions, resist the urge to pick at them. Picking at your lashes, whether real or fake, can cause severe damage to your natural lashes and disrupt their growth cycle. Avoid plucking out individual lashes as it can lead to lash loss and irreversible damage.
2. Use An Oil-Based Makeup Remover
Oil is your best friend when it comes to removing eyelash extensions. The chemicals in many oils help break down lash adhesive, and oil-based makeup removers are even more effective. Soak a cotton pad with the solution and hold it over your eye for a couple of minutes. Then, gently wipe the area to remove the extensions. Repeat this process until all the extensions have fallen off.
3. Make A Natural Eyelash Glue Remover
If you’re in a pinch and don’t have access to professional eyelash glue remover, you can create a DIY solution. Fill a bowl with hot water, add a bit of soap, liquid makeup remover, or oil (such as olive or coconut oil), and mix well. Apply the mixture to your eyelashes using a cotton pad or ball. Repeat this process until the extensions naturally fall off. Remember, do not pick at your lashes during this process.
4. Apply A Nightly Treatment of Castor Oil
Castor oil is a multi-purpose beauty product that can also help remove eyelash extensions. Apply a small amount of castor oil to your lashes every night before bed. The oil will break down the lash adhesive over time, causing the extensions to fall out naturally. Be careful not to get the oil in your eyes, and if you do, wash it out immediately with cold water. Using a q-tip can help apply the oil precisely.
5. Try Steam
Steam is a natural way to loosen eyelash extensions. While prolonged exposure to high heat or steam should be avoided when you first get your extensions, steam can help dissolve the adhesive as you remove them. To try this method, follow these steps:
- Remove all makeup and wash your face.
- Fill a bowl with steaming hot water.
- Lean over the bowl, keeping your face about 12 inches away, and cover your head with a large towel.
- Stay in this position for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen the eyelash glue.
- Pat your face dry with a clean towel.
Repeating this treatment should gradually loosen the extensions, allowing them to fall out naturally. Be patient, as it may take a few days for the steam to fully remove the extensions.
6. Mask The Extensions
While you wait for the removal process to work, you can use makeup to mask the remaining lash extensions. Applying black eyeliner to your upper lid helps blend any stubborn extensions. Additionally, using lengthening mascara can weaken the lash adhesive over time. Remember to remove your makeup with an oil-based remover to further aid the removal process.
7. Take Care of Your Natural Eyelashes
After successfully removing your lash extensions, be gentle with your natural lashes. They need time to recover from the adhesive glue and removal methods. Avoid vigorous rubbing or adding too much pressure when applying or removing makeup. Take a look at our eyelash care guide for tips on how to nourish and strengthen your natural lashes.
Professional Eyelash Extension Removal
While at-home removal methods can be effective, there are situations where professional help is necessary. If your new set of lashes irritates your eyes or if the lashes grow out in different directions, it’s best to seek assistance from a professional eyelash technician. They will have the knowledge and products to safely remove the extensions without harming your natural lashes.
Knowing How To Remove Eyelash Extensions At Home
Removing eyelash extensions at home requires patience and care. While professional removal is always recommended, you can try these tips to speed up the process without damaging your natural lashes. Do you have any other tips for removing eyelash extensions at home? Let us know!
