Why You Should Clean Your Lashes

It's a common myth that you can't get your lashes wet after you get extensions. That if you do, the water will compromise the integrity of the adhesive and you'll lose all of those beautiful lashes. But this couldn't be further from the truth. You should be cleaning your lashes if not daily, at least every other day with a specially formulated lash shampoo!

What are the benefits of washing your lashes daily?

Clean Lashes = Better Retention

Build up of oil, skin, dirt, and makeup on your extensions will cause premature shedding and can break down the adhesive. Your lashes are meant to catch debris to protect your eyes and your extensions will do the same. So make sure you're cleansing these impurities away. What happens if you don't?

Infections

So we know that lashes protect your eyes from debris, they also protect your eyes from infection. Over time this buildup can lead to blepharitis. Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids commonly caused when tiny oil glands at the base of the eyelash become clogged. This causes dandruff-like flakes to form, wrapping around the base of the eyelashes. The eyelids may appear red, swollen, or feel sore. This can also cause premature loss of your natural lashes. Washing your lashes keeps this buildup from occurring.

Stronger Adhesive Bonding

Another reason to keep your lashes clean is to make sure you have the best bond between your natural lash, the adhesive, and the lash extension. Have you ever tried to put tape on a surface that wasn't clean? The tape sticks to the debris and not the surface causing it to fall off. The same thing happens when we apply an extension. If the surface of your lash isn't clean, the adhesive bonds to the debris and not the natural lash, causing it to pop off quickly. Making sure your lashes are washed before your lash appointments will make sure you have the best retention possible.

How to Clean Your Lashes

We love using Borboleta's Lash Bath Foam Cleanser. If you are wearing makeup, use an oil-free makeup remover as your first step. Dispense 1-2 pumps of cleanser into your hand. Swirl foam with a clean, soft, fluffy makeup brush then apply gently to lids and through lashes. Be sure you are getting right at the base of your lash extensions (above and underneath) as this is where most buildup occurs. Use your makeup brush to rinse your lids with cool water. Pat dry with a tissue and then comb through with a clean mascara wand.

Make sure you are cleaning your lashes regularly right from the beginning. It's a lot harder to get a squeaky clean lash line after the buildup has already occurred!