How to Clean Your False Eyelashes

If you're invested in your lashes as we are, you know that cleaning them is as vital as any other part of your daily routine.

We're all about longevity and getting the most out of your purchase, so keeping your lashes clean works practically and means no eye infections. There's nothing more unattractive than pink eye or pussy swollen eye sockets or if you're unlucky contagious conjunctivitis.

We will guide you through cleaning your removable false lashes and how to care for your individual, semi-permanent lashes. Let's start with your magnetic and strip lashes, and then on to the ones designed to stay in place for longer.

Cleaning your Magnetic False Lashes

Here's a step-by-step guide to keeping your false lashes as fresh as the day you bought them.

Tools you'll need:

• Lash brush
• Gentle cleanser
• Water
• Paper towel or kitchen roll

Step 1: Gather your tools. You'll need a lash brush, a gentle cleanser, water, and a paper towel or cloth. We recommend using a specialist cleanser because manufacturers specifically design this product for cleaning lashes, but any mild soap will work in a pinch. Avoid using harsh chemicals or anything that could damage the delicate lash fibres.

Step 2: Wet your lashes with lukewarm water. Cleaning this way will help loosen any dirt, makeup, or oils built up on your lashes throughout the day.

Step 3: Apply a small amount of cleanser to your lash brush and gently brush through your wet lashes, being careful not to pull or tug.

Step 4: Rinse your magnetic lashes with lukewarm water until you have removed all traces of the cleanser.

Step 5: Gently dry your lashes with a paper towel or cloth. Be sure to blot, rather than rub, your lashes, as this can cause them to frizz and damage.

Step 6: Place your false lashes back in their case or storage container until you're ready to use them again.

Step 7: Invest in your lashes! A good quality pair of false lashes can last for weeks with proper care.

Check out this YouTube Video for a visual explanation.

Cleaning your False Strip Lashes

Step 1: Take a cotton bud soaked in eye makeup remover (water-based) and gently remove the lash from your eye.

Step 2: Carefully remove any excess glue from the strip using the same cotton bud.

Step 3: Soak a NEW cotton bud in water-based eye makeup remover and gently brush through the lashes to clean them.

Step 4: Use a clean, dry mascara wand to brush the lashes and pop them on some kitchen roll (not toilet paper) until they have completely dried out.

Step 5: Place the strip lashes back in their case or storage container until ready.

Cleaning your Semi-Permanent or Individual False Lashes

If you've invested in semi-permanent or individual (4-6 weeks lifespan) falsies, you still need to keep them clean or risk infection. Here's how:

Step 1: Remove your makeup, as usual, avoiding rubbing or tugging at your lashes. Again, do not use oil-based cleaners anywhere near your eyes. Use a water-based makeup remover or micellar water.

Step 2: Wet a cotton pad with water-based eye makeup remover and gently press it over your closed eyes for 10-20 seconds. Soaking will help loosen dirt, makeup, or natural oils on your lashes.

Step 3: Use a lash brush (or a clean, dry mascara wand) to carefully brush through your fake lashes, careful not to yank them.

Step 4: Rinse your lashes with lukewarm water until you have removed all traces of the cleanser.

Step 5: Pat your face dry. If you're using a heavy night cream or face oil, keep these well away from your eyes. As you move, night cream or oil will travel, so avoid this step of your nighttime beauty routine for the sake of your lashes.

TikTok does a great job of hacking your cleanse.

Other Ways to Make Your Fake Lashes Last Longer

Sleep on your back: When you sleep on your stomach or side, you crush your lashes, which will cause them to fall out prematurely. Read more about sleeping in your lashes here.

Use a Contoured Eye Mask: Wearing a contoured eye mask will help keep your lashes in place while you sleep and protect them from getting squished.

Be Careful When Applying Mascara: When applying mascara to your natural lashes, be careful not to get any on your falsies as this can cause them to break down and fall out sooner. If you accidentally get mascara on your falsies, use a q-tip or cotton bud dipped in (water-based) makeup remover to wipe it off carefully.

Do Not Use Oil-Based Products: This includes cleansers, makeup removers, face creams, etc. Oil breaks down the adhesive bond holding your falsies, so avoid using anything oil-based around your eyes.

Be careful when washing your face: Avoid rubbing or scrubbing your face when cleansing, as this can loosen the lash adhesive and cause your lashes to fall out. Instead, hold a clean wash cloth over your eyes and let the steam loosen any dirt or makeup before gently wiping away.

Don't pull on your lashes: This one seems like a no-brainer, but it's easy to get in the habit of rubbing or pulling on your lashes when you're tired or stressed. Not only does this cause premature shedding, but it can also damage the delicate lash follicles, causing them to become sparse and weak over time. If you find yourself touching your eyes often, try wearing glasses or sunglasses to help break the habit.

Invest in good quality lashes: Cheap false lashes are more likely to shed, frizz, and fall out prematurely. If you're serious about making your false lashes last, invest in a good-quality pair that will last for weeks with proper care.

The Bottom Line

False eyelashes are a fantastic way to enhance your look, but taking care of them is essential to prevent infection and ensure they last. Be sure to clean your lashes after each use. Glamour mag says never share your lashes with anyone else.

Following our step-by-step advice, you can enjoy your beautiful lashes for longer.