Eyelash extensions are a great way to add a permanent lift to your appearance without bothering daily eye makeup. However, adding extensions will mean changing parts of your makeup routine that you may be used to performing.

There are several different kinds of eyelash extensions, each with its benefits and drawbacks. You can use mascara with classic eyelash extensions, but proceed with caution when it comes to other types of extensions.

Here is everything that you need to know about wearing mascara with your eyelash extensions.

What Are Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions are a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure used to improve the length and thickness of your eyelashes. Many people choose to go for eyelash extensions to save time on their morning routine because you wake up with full lashes without needing to apply mascara.

Unlike strip lashes that you get in a drugstore, proper eyelash extensions are applied individually by a professional lash technician. This creates a more natural look than temporary lash extensions. Most lash extensions last six to eight weeks and fall out as if they were natural lashes.

Different Types of Eyelash Extensions

Most eyelash extensions fall into one of three main categories.

Classic lash extensions are when a false lash is applied to each natural lash. This is the most common and natural-looking of the extension types.

Russian lash extensions, or volume lash extensions, use multiple lashes per individual natural lash. Although several Russian lashes vary based on thickness and length, they all use this multiple-layering technique. Volume lashes are usually applied in a fan shape for more volume. Lash technicians use softer, lightweight lashes for these extensions instead of the normal ones that get used for classic lash extensions.

Finally, hybrid lash extensions are a combination between classic lashes and volume lashes. They are more natural but still have the fullness of Russian lashes.

However, when you go into a lash salon, you’ll have more than three choices. That is because you can also personalize your material (go for natural materials such as mink or synthetic lashes), length, and curl. So before getting lash extensions for the first time, talk with your stylist to figure out the best lashes for you.

Eyelash Extensions and Mascara

You can use mascara with classic eyelash extensions safely. By combining mascara with classic lash extensions, you can mimic some extra volume that you would have gotten with volume extensions. You can also play around with color or cover up any imperfections if you are in between appointments.

You should not use mascara with hybrid and volume lashes. The problem is that these lashes already have the extra volume that mascara would only hinder instead of enhancing. Also, applying mascara to thick lash extensions could cause your lashes to clump together since they are far denser than your natural lashes. It could also damage your lash extensions due to the extra weight of the makeup and make them fall out.

When Not to Wear Mascara

Although mascara can enhance the appearance of your lash extensions, be aware that it could damage your eyelashes and extensions. Most mascaras are oil-based or contain some amounts of sesame oil and similar ingredients. Using mascara too often on your extensions could weaken the adhesive due to the presence of these oils.

You need to use some caution when applying and removing mascara to and from eyelash extensions. Removing the mascara could damage your eyelashes because certain makeup removers contain harsh chemicals that affect the glue. The friction of swiping at your eyes with a makeup wipe or cotton pad can also cause your lashes to fall out. If you are removing eye makeup while wearing extensions, be sure to do so gently.

The Best Mascara To Use with Eyelash Extensions

Certain types of mascara are safer for use with eyelash extensions than others.

You should only use water-based formulas when applying mascara to eyelash extensions as those are the safest. Also, try to use gentle formulas that are easy to remove, as rubbing your lashes with makeup remover to get rid of stubborn mascara could damage your extensions. There are even mascaras out there designed specifically for use with lash extensions.

Avoid oil-based mascara at all costs because oils interact poorly with glue and can damage the lash adhesive. Other ingredients to avoid include glycol and carbonate. You also shouldn’t use waterproof mascara because it is so difficult to remove that it could damage your lashes and make them brittle.

Finally, never use tube mascara on lash extensions because the same properties that make it so easy to remove with natural lashes make it stick like glue to extensions.

How to Apply Mascara to Lash Extensions

When applying mascara to your extensions, you need to use a bit more caution than if you were applying it to your natural lashes. First, prep your eyelashes by washing, drying and combing them to prevent clumps.

As you apply your mascara, start from the middle of the lash and move forward. If you apply mascara to the root, that could damage the adhesive that you are using.

Finally, be sparing when applying mascara to lash extensions. Use a less dramatic product and only apply one coat. Applying too many coats of mascara could make your eyelashes look unnatural and even damage your extensions because the makeup will weigh them down.

The Final Word on Lash Extensions and Mascara

While you don’t need to apply mascara to lash extensions, it can help you add a pop of color to your eyes, thicken up a more natural set, or cover up flaws as you wait to repair your extensions at the salon.

However, be careful when mixing mascara and extensions to avoid damaging your lashes or the products. Always use water-based mascara, do not apply it too close to the root, and never mix mascara and volume extensions.

By following these tips, you can have gorgeous eyelashes while maximizing the lifespan of your extensions.