Can You Put Mascara on Eyelash Extensions?

Despite the volume that lash extensions give to natural lashes, some lash lovers still prefer to wear mascara. Adding a coat of mascara can add some extra drama to your eyes, but it is important to know that certain types of mascaras aren't suitable for eyelash extensions.

The best mascaras for lash extensions are water-based and oil-free. These formulas won't break down the adhesive that bonds the lash extension to your natural lashes.

Water-based

Using mascara on your eyelash extensions is a great way to increase the volume and length of your lashes. However, it’s important to choose a mascara that’s designed specifically for use with eyelash extensions.

Water-based mascaras are the safest to use on eyelash extensions as they don’t contain oils, lanolin, or waxes that can disintegrate the adhesive bond that holds the lash extensions together. They’re also less harsh on the eyes and are easily removed by using soaps and water or a gentle makeup remover.

Shirai Mascara: This lash-safe water-based mascara is gentle on the lashes and will enhance your eyelash volume without shortening their life. Its brush reaches every single lash and enhances the length and volume of your lashes to make them look full and natural.

Oil-based mascaras can disintegrate the adhesive bond that holds your lash extensions together, which will shorten their lifespan. They can also cause irritation to the eye area and should be avoided.

Oil-free

Oil-free mascaras are an ideal choice for those who have sensitive eyes or eyelash extensions. They’re also safer to use than waterproof mascaras since they don’t contain oils that break down the glue that holds lash extensions in place.

You can find a wide variety of oil-free mascaras on the market, all designed to add volume and length to your lashes while enhancing their natural beauty. Some are geared towards a daytime, professional look while others provide a bolder, over-the-top finish.

Lancome Definicils High Definition Mascara is a top-rated oil-free mascara that delivers dramatic volume and length to your lashes while avoiding clumps. It comes in a variety of colors, including black and brown. It’s also hypoallergenic and cruelty-free, so you can wear it confidently without fear of any allergies.

Waterproof

If you’re wearing lash extensions, it’s important to use mascara that is gentle on your lashes. You don’t want to rub or tug your eyelashes too hard while removing the product as this can damage the lash adhesive and cause your lashes to fall out prematurely.

Oil-based and water-resistant mascaras can be a good choice, as they won’t dissolve the glue that holds your lashes in place. However, you should avoid water-resistant products with silicones and other toxic ingredients as these can make your extensions brittle and disintegrate the bond that keeps them in place.

Tube mascaras and fiber mascaras should also be avoided as they can stick to the lash adhesive like cement, making it impossible to remove. They also can contain oils and glycols that break down your lash adhesive, which causes them to loosen and fall out sooner than they should.

Fiber

Fiber mascara consists of lash extension fibers (made from silk, rayon, or nylon) that can increase the length and volume of your eyelashes. They can be applied in a few steps, and some fiber mascaras are all-in-one products that work just like traditional mascaras with dry fibers added on top.

The key to using fiber mascara is focusing on applying it to the tips of your lashes so that the fibers catch and attach to your natural lashes, rather than clumping up at the base of your lashes. Then, apply another coat of mascara to seal in all of the fibers and give your lashes a more dramatic look.

Although fiber mascaras are great for making your eyelashes appear longer and fuller, they should not be worn long term because they can cause damage to your lashes, especially if you have sensitive eyes. The lash extension fibers may also flake off into your eyes and irritate them, which could lead to chronic eye irritation or even contact dermatitis.