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Eyelash Extension Guide: Can You Curl Lash Extensions?
It’s time to tackle a question that pops up frequently in our glamorous world of lash aftercare: “Can you curl lash extensions?” It’s a question that both clients and lash professionals often ponder. So, let’s dive into the intricacies of curling those beautiful lash extensions while keeping them looking fab!
Understanding Eyelash Extensions
Understanding the nature of eyelash extensions is essential before going into, ‘Can you curl eyelash extensions?’. Using semi-permanent glue, these extensions are precisely placed on each natural lash. They are available in various lengths, curls, and materials, such as synthetic, silk, or mink, allowing for a personalized look.
Can I Use Eyelash Curlers With My Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash curlers are NOT recommended as they can cause premature damage to your eyelash extensions.
Most synthetic eyelash extensions are made from a thermoplastic fiber called PBT and come with a preset curl from the manufacturer.
They use specialized tools and the perfect amount of heat to give the lashes their permanent curls.
In other words, you can’t and shouldn’t try to curl the actual extension!
With that said, the only reason you would want to use an eyelash curler when wearing extensions is to curl your natural lashes for them to contour the curl of your extensions.
You’re essentially bridging the gap between the natural lash and the extension.
Let’s illustrate this.
In this image, the dark lash is your natural eyelash, while the pale one is the extension.
Notice something?
The extension has a more pronounced curl than the natural lash.
As you can see in this image below, we’ve curled the natural lash so that the gap is closed.
Be careful though!
You should never use a mechanical curler for this because you risk ruining your lashes.
Why Do Extensions Lose Their Curl?
Your lash extensions will last a long time if you take care of them properly. Although they are intended to last for at least four to six weeks, it all depends on how well you take care of them. Losing your lash extensions’ curl can be due to many factors. To help you avoid these problems, we have listed some of the reasons.
- Overheating – This can cause damage to your extensions. Synthetic fiber can lose its shape if it is exposed to too much heat. Your extensions can also be damaged by indirect heat. Keep your lash extensions safe from direct heat when you blow-dry your hair, turn your face away from the oven when using it to cook or bake. Hot baths, hot tubs or saunas can cause the curl to loosen as well.
- Bad Sleeping Habits – Sleeping face down can cause damage to your lashes. You can keep your lashes as flawless as possible by sleeping on your back. Pillowcases made of cotton, linen, and polyester are not suitable for lash protection. However, non-abrasive surfaces like silk or satin will prevent premature shedding and protect your extensions’ shape.
- Lack of Cleaning – Eyelash extensions should be cleaned and washed daily in order to prevent germ buildup. Excess dirt and oil can build up if you don’t clean your extensions, especially after applying eye makeup. This can cause clumping which can also affect your curl. Always use oil-free face care products.
- Using Mascara – Mascara can cause your false lashes to stick together, making them very difficult to remove, it is not recommended to use on your extensions, at all. If you want your lashes to be fuller, just ask your lash artist. The ingredients can also cause premature lash loss by compromising the adhesion.
Tips to Maintain That Perfect Curl
Gentle Care is Key: Remind your clients (or remember, if you’re wearing them!) to be gentle. Avoiding harsh rubbing and using oil-free cleansers can prolong the curl life.
Regular Refills: Scheduling regular appointments with your lash artist for refills can help maintain the curl. As some extensions fall out and lose their shape, new ones will take their place, keeping the look fresh and curled.
Avoid Direct Heat: Caution against direct heat on the lashes. This includes high heat from hair dryers or opening the oven door right after baking that delicious pie.
Specialized Tools and Products: There are sealants designed specifically for lash extensions that can help maintain their curl and overall health.
Don’t Force the Curl of Your Extension With a Lash Curler
Broken and patchy lashes are most commonly caused by lash curlers. Eyelash curlers can cause damage to lash extensions as they remove the lash extensions from their bonds and cut them. The extensions can lose their curl with steam, like from a hot shower or sauna. Although extensions aren’t straighter in appearance, the curls of the extensions can appear to be longer because they are buried in the natural lash’s mid-root.
Some extension wearers reach out for their eyelash curlers to lift the extensions back up when this happens. We suggest bringing it up to your lash artist at your next fill, that you’d like for the extensions to be curlier, as we offer 4-5 different curls in the studio. Eyelash curlers can damage the bond the extensions have with the natural lashes, and cause early fallout.
How to Curl Lash Extensions
- Clean and wash your lashes.
- Comb them so that they aren’t stuck together or clumped.
- Let them dry completely on their own (because wet lashes won’t retain the curl).
- Turn on the heated eyelash curler.
- Once it’s warm enough (some devices will show an alert when ready), bring the lashes in contact with the heating area. Make sure not to use the heated curler at the very base of your lashes where the extension is bonded to the natural lash.
- Gently sweep the curler from the middle to the tip of your lashes. Make sure not to stay in a single spot for too long.
