How to Remove Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions work wonders to enhance your makeup looks, but like many things in life, they have an expiration date. When that date is approaching—or past due—you’ll need to find an eyelash extension removal method that won’t harm your natural lashes. This is, unfortunately, a very real possibility since extensions are bonded to your real lashes with glue. While you have the option of trusting a professional to remove your false lashes, you can also take matters into your own hands and learn how to remove eyelash extensions at home. All you need are the right tools and patience. Below, we’re sharing four tips to help you learn how to remove lash extensions as if you were a true pro.

HOW TO REMOVE EYELASH EXTENSIONS

When it comes to eyelash extension removal, there are a few easy ways to help lift the fake lashes from your lash line. Keep reading as we share our tips to help make removal a smooth process.

EYELASH EXTENSION REMOVAL TIP #1: EYELASH GLUE REMOVER

One of the easiest ways to remove your eyelash extensions is to use eyelash glue remover. An eyelash glue remover works to loosen the bond of the adhesive so that you can separate your extensions with ease. You may need to repeat the process to ensure that all of the faux lashes are removed. Be sure to follow the directions listed on the packaging to ensure you get the desired results.

EYELASH EXTENSION REMOVAL TIP #2: EYE MAKEUP REMOVER

Not only does the right eye makeup remover come in handy to remove product from your face, but it can also make eyelash extension removal super easy. Best of all, it only takes a few minutes to work its magic. You may remember that you aren’t supposed to use oil-based eye makeup remover when you have eyelash extensions, but if you’re looking to part with your extensions, that’s exactly what you should do. The oil can help break down the adhesive. Soak a cotton pad with your eye makeup remover and hold the pad over your eye for a minute or two. After giving the remover time to saturate your lashes, you’ll want to gently wipe the area. Repeat until your extensions are removed.

EYELASH EXTENSION REMOVAL TIP #3: STEAM YOUR FACE

Another common way to remove your eyelash extensions is to steam your face. Steaming your face can help loosen the bond of the eyelash glue to free your lashes. For this tip, you’ll want to make sure that your face is nice and clean, then fill a large bowl with hot water, place a towel over your head, and put your face over the bowl. Steam your face for about 10 minutes. Once complete, moisten a cotton ball with water and gently wipe your eyelashes. If you realize that the false lashes are not sliding off, saturate a cotton pad with an oil-based remover and repeat.

EYELASH EXTENSION REMOVAL TIP #4: RELY ON A PROFESSIONAL

As much as you may want to master eyelash extension removal, sometimes extensions can be pretty hard to remove. If you find that none of the above tips help to remove your eyelash extensions, it’s time to visit a professional.

HOW NOT TO REMOVE EYELASH EXTENSIONS

Removing eyelash extensions shouldn’t be a major undertaking, but there are ways you can mess up and put your real lashes in danger. The biggest thing to remember is that you shouldn't pull your eyelash extensions out. Even if some are falling out on their own, don’t help them along! When you get rough with your lash extensions, you can easily end up pulling out your real lashes, too. Always treat your lashes—both real and fake—with care and be as gentle as can be if you’re trying to remove extensions.

Next up: Think you want to take a break from eyelash extensions but still want lots of length and volume? Sounds like you may want to try fake eyelashes for a more temporary lash makeover! Head over to our article, 12 Hacks to Make Applying False Lashes Easier, to learn how to master applying falsies.