Yes, you can — and should — wash your eyelash extensions every day. Use an extension-safe foam cleanser and a soft brush, work gently from top to bottom, rinse with water, pat dry and finish by brushing your lashes with a spoolie.
Many people are afraid to get their lashes wet and skip cleansing altogether. Ironically, that is one of the main reasons sets don’t last. Here is the routine, plus why it matters even more in Fortaleza’s climate.
Why wash your extensions daily?
Throughout the day, your lashes collect skin oil, sweat, dust, sunscreen and makeup residue. That build-up weakens the adhesive and can make extensions shed early.
Clean lashes last longer. Oil is one of the adhesive’s worst enemies.
A clean lash line also feels more comfortable and keeps your lashes fluffy and neatly separated.
First: wait 24 hours
For the first 24 hours after a new set or a refill, the adhesive is still curing. Keep your lashes dry and avoid steam, saunas and heavy sweating. Start your cleansing routine after that.
What you’ll need
- An eyelash extension foam cleanser.
- A soft cleansing brush.
- Cool or room-temperature water.
- A soft towel or tissue.
- A spoolie.
Step by step
- Remove eye makeup with an oil-free remover, without rubbing.
- Lightly wet your lashes with your eyes closed.
- Apply the foam to the soft brush or your fingertips.
- Cleanse gently, top to bottom, following the direction of the lashes. Don’t forget the lash line, where oil builds up.
- Rinse thoroughly until no foam is left — cupped hands or a gentle shower stream from the side, never straight at your face.
- Pat dry with a towel or tissue, no rubbing.
- Brush with a spoolie once they’re almost dry.
It fits easily into your skincare routine. If you wear makeup, an evening wash is a must.
Drying without damage
Wet lashes get heavy and may clump together. To dry them well:
- Pat gently; never rub.
- Let them air-dry for a moment before brushing.
- If you use a hair dryer, keep it on the cool setting and well away from your face.
Brushing with a spoolie
Once dry, brush upward from the middle of the lashes to the tips. This detangles them and brings back the shape of your chosen style. Repeat each morning.
What to avoid
| Avoid | Why |
|---|---|
| Oil-based removers and creams | They weaken the bond |
| Waterproof mascara | It needs strong removers to come off |
| Lash curlers | They can bend or break the fibers |
| Rubbing with a towel | It tugs on extensions and natural lashes |
| Very hot water or direct steam | It can affect the adhesive |
Why it matters more in Fortaleza
Fortaleza is hot and humid all year, so skin produces more sweat and oil. Add daily sunscreen, sea breeze and beach days at Praia do Futuro, Beira-Mar or Beach Park, and lashes collect residue fast.
After the sea or the pool, rinse your lashes with fresh water as soon as you can and pat them dry. For more, read our guide to eyelash extensions, beach days and heat in Fortaleza.
Cleansing and refills go together
Even with perfect cleansing, natural lashes shed on their own cycle and take extensions with them. A set generally looks its best for three to four weeks, with a refill every 15 to 21 days. Arriving at your refill with clean lashes helps too — see how often to get a lash refill.
If you notice persistent itching, redness or burning while cleansing, stop, don’t rub, and see an ophthalmologist or dermatologist.
Book your set or refill
At Niely Oliveira — Studio de Cílios, by Lago Jacarey in Cambeba, in the south zone of Fortaleza, you leave every private, scheduled appointment with clear aftercare instructions. Book online whenever you’re ready.