Experiencing Lash Damage Because of Lash Extension? There are Alternatives
28.10.2021As with waterproof mascara, eyelash extensions can be both a blessing as well as a curse. These extensions are great for giving you luscious, full lashes. However, they can be difficult to remove on the fly.
We (and most makeup artists) don’t recommend that you remove lash extensions by yourself. However, it is possible to do it without causing damage if the right tools are available. Melissa Hurkman, a makeup artist, gave us some tips and tricks. Let’s face it, no one should attempt this at home without professional advice. Continue reading for a step-by guide on how you can remove lash extensions at home.
How to Get Rid of Lash Extensions at Your Home
You’ll need some paper towels, disposable mascara brushes and eyelash extension remover. Work with only one eye at a time. It may seem obvious but it is important to remember. Hurkman states that this will ensure that no remover solution seeps into your eyes.
Start the home removal process by folding your paper towel in half. Place it between your lower and higher lashes. Gently squeeze your eye around the towel without irritating the surrounding area. Hurkman says that this will keep the product out of your eyes.
Use a Q-tip or disposable mascara brush to apply a little remover gel to your lashes. To prevent any remover gel getting into your eyes, use a downward-sweeping motion. Hurkman suggests that you target the area where the extension glue is. You want to coat the glue with remover gel so that it only takes one step. You will then need to wait for the gel remover to dry completely. Allow the gel to sit for three minutes, or longer depending on how long your false lashes take to fall out.
After three to five minutes, you can use a disposable mascara brush or a Q-tip to comb your lashes. Hurkman explains, “Gently comb your lashes and gently wiggle the extensions free from your lashline.” The extensions should be removed immediately. To avoid burning or stinging, rinse the solution from your eyes with cold water.
Although the process seems simple, Hurkman’s number-one tip is – patience. She advises that you don’t force the lashes to fall off. Exercising too much aggression and being impatient with your lash extensions can cause damage to your natural lashes, and possibly even the future of your lash line. It is important to be gentle and patient. Even if you have to leave the gel on for a while, it will be worth it in the end.
Choose from At-Home Lash Removal Products
Hurkman says that you should always choose a professional-grade removal gel. These are the best products. She shares that although it may cost more or take longer to find, the results will be well worth it. You want the product to be effective enough that you can glide your extensions off of your own lashes easily without tension. Her personal experience with BL Lashes’ Blink Gel Removal has been great. Her tips:
- BL Lashes Blink Removal Gel ($10)
- Obinhere Disposable Mascara Wand ($9)
- Lashview Eyelash Extension Remover ($9)
- Lonris Fast Gel Remover ($18)
- Existing Beauty Eyelash Extension Remover ($10)
- GreenLife Disposable Eyelash Brush ($6)
Alternatives to Lash Extensions
While Lash extensions have many benefits, you can also use them to enhance your natural lashes. There are many products on the market that will add volume and length to your lashes for days. Plus, they won’t hurt later.
- Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions ($24)
Thrive’s top-selling mascara gives you a lash extension effect that isn’t actually a lash extension.
- Glossier Lash Slick ($16)
This mascara is loved by many for its natural long-lasting lashes. It is also water-resistant.
- Benefit Cosmetics They Are Real! Lengthening & Volumizing Mascara ($13)
The name is enough. People will be asking if this mascara is lash extension.
- Brilliant Beauty Eyelash Curler ($10)
A classic lash curler is the best way to lift and lengthen your lashes.
- Milk Makeup Kush Lash + Brow Serum ($50)
While most lash serums, except Latisse, can’t make your lashes grow faster than they can be with other formulas, you can still invest in one that can strengthen and condition them. Milk Makeup’s serum includes Cannibus seed extract, and other plant peptides that can help.
- Velour Lashes Very Big Deal Tubing Mascara & Peptide Lash Serum ($26)
You can also combine the two. After four weeks of consistent use, this mascara and peptide-lash serum makes lashes look fuller.
- Dr. Lara Devgan Scientific Beauty Platinum Long Lash Serum ($150)
For something more powerful, try Dr. Lara Devgan’s Long Lash Serum.