How to Care for Your Professional Lash Extensions at Home

Professional lash extensions can dramatically enhance your natural beauty, giving your eyes a fuller, more defined look without the need for mascara or falsies. However, to keep them looking flawless and long-lasting, proper aftercare at home is essential. Whether you’ve just had your first set or are a lash extension veteran, this guide will help you care for your professional lash extensions the right way.

At Lashes by Aree, we believe beauty doesn’t stop at the salon. With just a little daily effort, you can enjoy gorgeous lashes for weeks.

1. The First 24-48 Hours Matter Most

Immediately after your lash appointment, it’s crucial to follow the right aftercare routine to ensure the adhesive fully cures.

  • Avoid Water and Steam: Do not wash your face, shower, or go near steam rooms and saunas for at least 24 to 48 hours. Moisture can break down the lash adhesive before it fully sets.

  • No Touching: Resist the urge to touch, pull, or brush your lashes during this period. The more you leave them alone, the better they’ll bond.

Pro Tip from Lashes by Aree: We always recommend scheduling your appointment on a day when you don’t plan on working out or attending events that involve water exposure.

2. Clean Lashes = Healthy Lashes

A common myth is that you shouldn’t clean your lash extensions. In reality, cleaning them is vital for keeping oil, makeup residue, and bacteria at bay.

How to Clean:

  • Use a lash-safe cleanser or a gentle, oil-free micellar water.

  • Gently apply the cleanser with a lint-free brush or sponge.

  • Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a paper towel.

Avoid cotton pads or swabs—they can snag your lashes or leave lint behind.

3. Avoid Oil-Based Products

Oil is the enemy of lash adhesive. When it seeps into the lash line, it can break down the glue and cause premature lash shedding.

Avoid:

  • Oil-based cleansers and makeup removers

  • Cream-based eyeshadows or eyeliners

  • Heavy moisturizers near the eyes

Lashes by Aree carries a curated line of lash-safe makeup products to help you stay fabulous without damaging your extensions.

4. Brush Your Lashes Daily

Your lashes need grooming just like your hair. Using a clean, disposable spoolie brush, gently comb through your lashes every morning to prevent tangles and maintain shape.

Technique:

  • Support your lashes with one hand.

  • Use light, upward strokes from the middle of the lash outward.

  • Never tug or use excessive force.

5. Sleep Smart

Yes, how you sleep affects your lash extensions! Sleeping on your face can crush your lashes, causing them to fall out unevenly.

Tips:

  • Sleep on your back whenever possible.

  • Consider using a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.

  • Avoid eye masks that press against your lashes.

6. Mind Your Makeup

If you wear eye makeup, make sure it’s lash extension-friendly.

Use:

  • Water-based eyeliners and mascaras (if needed)

  • Powder shadows over creamy or oily formulas

  • A makeup remover that’s specifically labeled as oil-free and safe for extensions

Never use waterproof mascara—it’s nearly impossible to remove without damaging your lashes.

7. Limit Heat Exposure

Heat can weaken the lash adhesive or cause the extensions to lose their curl.

Avoid:

  • Direct blasts of hot air from your hairdryer

  • Sitting too close to open flames or stoves

  • Saunas and hot yoga frequently

If you need to use a hairdryer, switch to a cool setting when drying near your face.

8. Say No to Picking or Pulling

It’s tempting to tug at a loose lash, but doing so can cause real damage to your natural lashes. If one is out of place, gently brush it or trim the extension portion without touching the root.

For proper maintenance, visit Lashes by Aree for a refill every 2-3 weeks. We’ll remove outgrown lashes and fill in gaps for a fresh, full look.

9. Avoid Excess Moisture Around the Eyes

Beyond just the first 48 hours, continual exposure to water—like swimming or frequent eye rubbing—can weaken your lash adhesive.

  • Wear goggles while swimming.

  • Don’t rub your eyes with wet hands.

  • Always blot instead of wiping around your eyes.

10. Use a Lash Sealant

Lash sealants are protective top coats for your extensions. They shield the adhesive from moisture and oils, helping your lashes last longer.

Lashes by Aree offers a salon-quality sealant you can apply every few days to keep your lashes strong and shiny between appointments.

11. Know When to Let Go

Eventually, your natural lashes will shed, taking the extensions with them. This is completely normal and part of your natural lash growth cycle.

Signs it’s time for a refill:

  • You notice uneven gaps.

  • Extensions begin to twist or turn.

  • You’ve had your last set for more than 3 weeks.

Letting lashes fall naturally or having them professionally removed ensures the health of your natural lashes.

Why Choose Lashes by Aree?

At Lashes by Aree, we don’t just apply professional lash extensions—we guide you every step of the way to maintain their beauty and your comfort at home. Our team uses the safest products and precision techniques to create custom lash looks suited to your eye shape, lifestyle, and preferences.

We’re always happy to recommend products, offer maintenance tips, and provide touch-ups as needed. Whether you’re getting your first full set or are coming in for a routine refill, you’ll leave feeling confident, cared for, and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your professional lash extensions at home doesn’t have to be complicated. With proper hygiene, the right products, and gentle handling, you can keep your lashes looking salon-fresh for weeks.

Trust Lashes by Aree to not only give you the lash transformation you dream of—but also the guidance to make it last.