How to Wear Lashes with Contacts: Safe Practices

CONTACTS AND LASHES: THE SHORT ANSWER

If you wear contacts and love false lashes, you have probably asked: can I actually do both without ending up at the eye doctor? Short answer: yes. I have been a contact wearer for over 15 years and a lash obsessive for even longer. I have worn falsies through weddings, long photo shoots, and everyday commutes. Here is exactly how to do it safely.

THE SAFE RULES FOR CONTACT WEARERS

• Put your contacts in before you start any eye makeup.
• Use latex-free, fragrance-free adhesive that won't fume your eyes.
• Never apply lashes in a moving car.
• Always work with a mirror and good light — never on your lap.
• Wash your hands with oil-free soap before touching your contacts or lashes.
• Replace your lash adhesive every 3 months to avoid bacteria.
• If a lash pokes you, remove it immediately. Do not rub.

STEP-BY-STEP: APPLYING LASHES WITH CONTACTS

1. Wash and dry your hands completely.
2. Insert your contacts first, before any moisturizer or makeup.
3. Apply eye makeup, but avoid oil-based products near the lash line.
4. Measure the lash band against your eye. Trim from the outer edge.
5. Apply a thin layer of adhesive along the band. Wait 30 seconds until it feels tacky.
6. Tilt your chin down and look into a mirror so your upper lash line is visible.
7. Press the lash band gently onto your natural lashes, starting at the middle.
8. Blink a few times to settle the lashes.
9. Press down with your fingertip for 10 seconds to set.

WHAT TO AVOID IF YOU WEAR CONTACTS

• Don't wear lash extensions if you tend to rub your eyes.
• Don't use waterproof mascara. It pulls lashes and needs harsh removers.
• Don't sleep in falsies. Ever.
• Don't reuse dirty lash strips. Clean and dry them after each wear.
• Never yank a falsie off while your contacts are still in. Use an oil-free remover to loosen the glue.

WHEN TO SKIP FALSIES ALTOGETHER

If your eyes are red, itchy, swollen, infected, or prone to styes, skip falsies. Contacts already put your eye under stress. Adding lash glue can bring in bacteria. Wait 48 hours until symptoms disappear.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN LASHES FOR SENSITIVE, CONTACT-LOVING EYES

Not all lashes are equal. Look for a lightweight, flexible band that hugs the curve of your eye without pressing. Tapered tips create a softer look that doesn't cast shadows. A matte finish reduces reflections. And a design that doesn't require heavy glue or tugging is a must for contact wearers. For more lash guidance, check out our lash blog.

FAQ

Can I wear false lashes with contacts?

Yes, if you apply them carefully and keep adhesive and tools away from your eyes. Always insert contacts first.

How do I remove false lashes if I wear contacts?

Use an oil-free eye makeup remover on a cotton pad, press it on the lash band for 10 seconds, then slide the lash off sideways. Never pull.

What type of lashes are best for contact lenses?

Lightweight falsies with a thin, flexible band and tapered tips are best. They feel less noticeable and won't press on the lash line.

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