How to Clean Your Lashes (and Make Them Last Longer)

Strip lashes are made to be worn again and again, but only if you clean them. Leftover glue, mascara and makeup weigh the lashes down, bend the band and shorten their life. Your lash line needs care too: oil and old glue around your lashes are not good for your eyes. Here is a simple routine for both.

Why lash hygiene matters

Tiny mites called Demodex naturally live around the lashes of most adults, and usually cause no problems. Oil, makeup and glue buildup along the lash line can give them more to feed on. A gentle daily cleanse keeps the area clean and comfortable. If your eyes are itchy, red or crusty, or the irritation does not go away, see an eye doctor.

Cleaning your lash line, every day

1. Foam it. Use a gentle, oil-free lash cleanser, like the VIP Lash Foam Shampoo. Keep your eyes closed.
2. Brush. Sweep a soft lash brush along the lash line, such as the VIP Lash Shampoo Brush or the AW Lashes 2-in-1 Lash Brush.
3. Rinse and pat dry. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat gently with a clean towel. Do not rub.

Why oil-free? Oil breaks down lash glue, so oily cleansers can make your lashes lift early and leave residue behind.

How to clean strip lashes after each wear

1. Remove them gently. Hold the lash by the band at the outer corner and peel slowly toward the inner corner. Never pull the lash hairs.
2. Peel off old glue. Use clean tweezers to lift the strip of dried glue off the band. If it sticks, soften it first with a little cleanser.
3. Clean away makeup. Dip a cotton swab or soft brush in oil-free cleanser and wipe from the band out to the tips.
4. Rinse and reshape. Rinse gently, then lay the lashes back in their tray or case so they dry in a curve.
5. Let them dry fully before storing them in their case, away from dust.

Habits that make lashes last

• Never sleep in strip lashes. Take them off and clean them every night.
• Never share lashes, glue, tweezers or mascara.
• Apply mascara to your natural lashes first, then add the strip lashes, so less mascara ends up on the band.
• Replace old pairs once the band stays bent or the fibers start to frizz, and toss opened lash glue when it gets stringy or past its date.

With gentle care, a good pair of strip lashes can be worn many times. Our 3D Mink Lashes and 5D Mink Lashes are made for repeat wear.

More lash help

New to strip lashes or clusters? Read How to Apply False Lashes, or try the DIY Lash Starter Kit. Find cleansers, brushes and glue in Lash Kits, Glue & Care.

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