Make Up and Extensions: The Do's and Don'ts
You are looking your best with your newly applied eyelash extensions, and you are ready for your night out on the town. Of course, that means you probably have put on your makeup just like you typically would, however, do you know that your everyday makeup may not be safe to use with your new lashes? Although products like, eyeliner, mascara and eye shadow are deemed harmless for daily use, you need to understand which cosmetics are safe to use with professional lash extensions. Here are the pros and cons you need to be aware of when it comes to cosmetics and extensions.
Everyday Cosmetics for Eyes
When glamming it up, most women use a combination of mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow to highlight the eye area. Eyeliner typically comes in a cream/gel or pencil form making it easy to create dramatic looks with natural lashes. However, using a pencil eyeliner with eyelash extensions could lead to a disaster, as the pencil may tug at your extensions, pulling them out. Applying cream or gel eyeliner, although smoother than a pencil, may leave behind a residue on extensions that is difficult to remove.
Smudge-proof eyeshadow is made from a combination of minerals and polymers that allow the makeup to “stay put” on your eyelid. Even though this is ideal when you are wearing it without eyelash extensions, it could be troublesome with them as it would require makeup remover that may damage your new extensions.
Of course one of the easiest ways to make your natural looking lashes stand out is with an application of mascara. As mascara is noted for bringing volume and length to natural lashes, if they are extensions, you may want to be wary. Most mascara options are oil-based which could weaken the bonding agents holding your lash extensions in place leaving them to fall out or stick together once the mascara is dry. Also, be aware the waterproof mascara is an absolute no-no with extensions. Due to its staying power, water-proof mascara can make your extensions brittle.
Makeup to Use with Extensions
Many customers ask if it is okay to wear eye makeup with extensions, and the answer is yes, if you remember the products must be oil-free. This rule also includes any makeup remover or cleanser, water-based only. Whether it be mascara, eyeliner or eyeshadow, as long as it is oil-free your extensions will be safe from damage. You must still be careful when removing makeup, even water-based types while wearing eyelash extensions. Be gentle, and do not apply pressure when wiping away the makeup. No rubbing your eyes either. By using water-based makeup, your extensions will look their best and should last until it is time for your touch up.
What to Do if I Use an Unsafe Product
If you by accident use an oil-based product on your extensions, the best option is to seek out your lash professional. However, if you are unable to get to the lash studio here are a few tips for how to remove eyelash extensions:
There are eyelash removers available that require a quick application of the solution with a q-tip on your closed eyelid. After a few minutes remove eyelash and immediately rinse off solution with cool water prior to opening your eye.
Coconut and olive oil both can be used as an effective extension remover. Exposing the glue to steam will help ensure this process is successful. Steam your face for about ten minutes via shower or covering face with a towel over a bowl of hot water. With your eye closed apply soaked cotton ball with either oil for three minutes. Use oil-soaked q-tip to gently brush lashes away from the lid
Interested in experiencing eyelash extensions or lash lifts? Or are you in need of a lash fill? If so, please contact one of our professionally trained technicians at Selena’s Lash Studio for an appointment.