Eyelash extensions can add volume, length, and drama to your natural lashes, but there comes a time when you may want or need to remove them. While it’s always advisable to have them removed professionally, you might need to take them off at home. Knowing how to remove eyelash extensions safely at home can prevent damage to your natural lashes and ensure a smooth, irritation-free experience. Below are some essential steps and tips for safe eyelash removal at home.
Understand Why Professional Removal Is Ideal
Before diving into the at-home removal process, it’s worthwhile to acknowledge why professional removal is recommended. Eyelash extensions are bonded to natural lashes with a strong adhesive that lasts several weeks. Professional lash technicians use specialised products and techniques to dissolve this adhesive without harming your natural lashes or irritating your eyes. However, following the correct steps is crucial to avoid damage if you must remove them at home.
Gather Your Supplies
For safe eyelash removal at home, you’ll need a few basic supplies:
- Oil-based makeup remover or coconut oil: These products help to loosen the adhesive and make removal easier.
- Cotton pads or swabs: To apply remover or oil.
- A clean spoolie or mascara wand: For gently brushing through the lashes.
- A bowl of hot, steaming water: To soften the adhesive.
- Towel or cloth: To protect your skin and clothes from mess.
These supplies are generally easy to find and are gentle enough to use around the sensitive eye area.
Start with Steam
One of the first steps in how to remove eyelash extensions is to soften the adhesive using steam. This will make the removal process smoother and reduce the risk of pulling on your natural lashes.
- Boil some water and pour it into a bowl.
- Position your face over the bowl, keeping a safe distance to avoid burning yourself.
- Drape a towel over your head to create a steam tent, allowing steam to soften the lash adhesive.
- Stay in this position for 10-15 minutes.
Steam breaks down the adhesive bond, making the next steps easier and less likely to damage your natural lashes.
Apply Oil-Based Makeup Remover or Coconut Oil
After steaming, the next step in safe eyelash removal is to use an oil-based makeup remover or coconut oil. These products effectively dissolve the adhesive and are gentle on the skin.
- Soak a cotton pad or swab in the oil-based makeup remover or coconut oil.
- Press the cotton pad against your lash line, holding it in place for a few minutes. This allows the oil to penetrate the adhesive and further loosen the extensions.
- After a few minutes, gently wipe the pad along your lash line downward, ensuring not to rub too hard.
If you're using coconut oil, the oil's natural properties will also help moisturise the delicate skin around your eyes, making this method both practical and beneficial.
Gently Remove the Extensions
Once the adhesive has been softened by steam and oil, the next step in removing eyelash extensions is to remove them gently.
- Brush your lashes with a clean spoolie or mascara wand. This should help separate the extensions from your natural lashes.
- If the extensions don’t slide off easily, don’t force them. Apply more oil and let it sit for a few more minutes before trying again.
- Continue this process until all extensions have been removed.
Patience is key here; rushing through the process can result in pulling out or damaging your natural lashes.
Cleanse and Soothe Your Eyes
After successfully removing your eyelash extensions, cleaning your eyes and lashes thoroughly to remove any leftover adhesive or oil is important. Use a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser or micellar water to wash your face and eye area.
- Splash your face with lukewarm water and gently cleanse your eye area to remove residual oil or adhesive.
- Pat your skin dry with a soft towel.
- Follow up with a soothing eye cream or gel to hydrate the delicate skin around your eyes.
This step restores moisture to your skin and lashes, promoting healthy lash growth.
Care for Your Natural Lashes
After safe eyelash removal, your natural lashes may need extra TLC to recover. Consider incorporating the following into your routine:
- Use a lash serum: A lash serum can help strengthen and promote natural lash growth after extension removal.
- Avoid mascara for a few days: Give your lashes a break from heavy products to allow them to breathe and recover.
- Brush your lashes daily: Using a clean spoolie, gently brush your natural lashes to keep them looking neat and encourage healthy growth.
Nourishing your lashes after removal is essential to ensure they remain healthy and strong and prevent long-term damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience discomfort or irritation, or if the extensions aren’t coming off easily despite following the steps above, it’s best to seek professional help. A licensed lash technician can safely remove stubborn extensions without risking damage to your natural lashes or the delicate skin around your eyes.
Conclusion
Knowing how to remove eyelash extensions safely at home is vital if you cannot visit a professional. By following the steps outlined above, including steaming, using oil-based products, and being gentle throughout the process, you can achieve safe eyelash removal without compromising the health of your natural lashes. Remember, patience and care are key to ensuring your lashes stay healthy and strong after removal. If in doubt, consult us for professional advice to avoid any potential damage.