How to Clean Lash Extensions vs Strips

How do I keep my lashes clean without ruining them? That's the question I get the most. And honestly, most people are either too gentle — you end up with a bacterial garden — or too rough, and the lashes fall out. So let me give you a routine that works for both extensions and strips.

THE ONE THING YOU'RE PROBABLY DOING WRONG

You're washing them too aggressively on day one. Lash extensions need a firm but gentle motion — like wiping a raw egg off a counter. Strip lashes need even more care because the band is fragile. But the real problem is using oily products. Any oil-based makeup remover can break down the adhesive in lash extensions, so strip lashes, and even the water-resistant coating on some natural lashes.

HOW TO CLEAN LASH EXTENSIONS WITHOUT DAMAGE

1. Use a lash shampoo. Not dish soap. Look for a no-oil, foaming lash cleanser.
2. Dip a lash brush in warm water (not hot). Place the brush at the base of your lashes and gently sweep upward in small circles.
3. Do this for no more than 30 seconds per eye. Long sessions can loosen the adhesive.
4. Rinse with cool water. Use your fingers to lightly spread the water down the lashes.
5. Dry with a soft paper towel. Gently pat, don't rub.

HOW TO CLEAN STRIP LASHES WITHOUT LOSING THEIR SHAPE

1. Remove the lash and peel off dried adhesive. Do this when it's dry, not wet. Wet adhesive is like rubber — it sticks and pulls.
2. Soak the lash in warm water for 5 minutes. Add one drop of mild shampoo to the water if the lash has old mascara on it.
3. Swish the lash around in the water. Don't pinch, pull, or scrub. Then dip it in a cup of clean water to rinse.
4. Lay the lash on paper towel, band side up. Gently use a dry Q-tip to remove any leftover mascara from the fibers.
5. Let them air dry on the case's mould. Never dry them flat on a towel — gravity will flatten the curl.

It takes about 5 minutes, and it adds 10+ wears to every pair.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN LASHES THAT ARE EASY TO CLEAN

When I recommend lashes to people, I check if the band resists mascara buildup. Synthetic silk lashes are generally easier to clean than mink or human hair, because the synthetic fibers don't absorb oil. A flexible but firm band also makes the 'peel off' step gentler.

That's why I personally use PHANSTA LASHES. They're made from a micro-fiber that cleans in one rinse, and the band isn't glued too tightly, so it comes off without pulling. Plus, they're designed to be reusable if you clean them properly.

LASH CLEANING QUESTIONS, SOLVED

Can I use micellar water on lash extensions?

Some micellar waters are okay if they're oil-free. But many contain small amounts of oils. To be safe, use a dedicated lash frother or a cleanser labeled for extensions.

How often should I clean my strip lashes?

After every single wear. Leaving adhesive and mascara on the band is the main reason lashes warp or smell.

What's the best way to dry lashes after cleaning?

Always lay them on the original case or a curved surface, and let them air dry. A hair dryer or direct heat will melt the fibers.

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