Mascara can make lashes pop, but it’s not always safe to apply on top of your lash extensions. Especially if you have volume lashes or a hybrid lash (volume and classic lashes applied together), mascara can pull out the natural strands of your lashes and shorten their lifespan, says Caroline Brooks, skin specialist at The Glass House Salon & Spa.
Waterproof
When it comes to lash extensions, it’s important to choose a mascara that will be gentle on your lashes. That means avoiding products that are waterproof, oil-based or contain any silicone ingredients.
Waterproof mascara can make your lashes brittle, dry and prone to damage and fallout. Additionally, it can be difficult to remove without pulling or tugging on your lashes, which can cause them to prematurely lose their strength.
Another thing to watch out for is tube mascaras, which contain polymers that wrap “tubes” around each individual lash. They can cling to your lashes like cement, making them impossible to remove.
Clean beauty brand Ilia’s Limitless water-resistant mascara features keratin, shea butter and beeswax to fortify, condition and nourish eyelashes while adding length and volume. It also features a dual-sided brush that separates and coats lashes for multidimensional effect. It’s also gluten-free, cruelty-free and free of parabens and phthalates.
Oil-Based
Oil-based mascaras are a big no-no for eyelash extensions, as they can dissolve the glue and bonding agents that hold your falsies in place. This can cause them to clump together or fall out prematurely.
The best mascara for lash extensions is water-based, which doesn’t contain any waxy or oily substances in the formula. This type of mascara will not ruin your lashes or dissolve the bonding agents in your lash adhesive.
Avoid mascaras that have dry fibers like silk, nylon, and rayon, as these can be difficult to remove from your lashes. This type of mascara can also damage your natural lashes and make them fall out.
Another type of mascara to avoid is waterproof, as they contain many ingredients that can dissolve the glue your lash extensions use to stick to your lashes. Additionally, silicone should be avoided as it can weaken the bond between your lash extensions and natural lashes.
Fiber
Mascara is one of the best ways to extend and define your lashes. The trick is to find a formula that is safe and gentle.
Fiber mascaras, for example, stick tiny fibers (silk, rayon, and nylon) to the lash tips for a longer, thicker look. They also add a pop of color and texture to your eyelashes.
However, it is important to be aware that some fiber-based mascaras may irritate the eyes. This is especially true if you have sensitive eyes.
The key is to choose a formula that is water-based or has been specifically formulated for lash extensions. These contain a neutral pH to prevent irritation from occurring around the lash line, and they’re easy to remove using only water.
Natural
If you’re looking for an easy, natural way to add length and volume to your lashes, eyelash extensions may be right for you. They come in a variety of fibres (synthetic, silk or hybrid) and length, and they look great on almost everyone.
However, if you want to boost your lash extension’s volume, you can apply mascara on them for a bolder and more pronounced appearance. It will also help you maintain the longevity of your lash extensions.
Mascara for eyelash extensions is safe because it is formulated at a neutral pH to reduce irritation around the eyes. Its brush is designed to glide onto the extensions without pulling or tugging.
But, you should only use mascara that’s a good match for your lash set. It should also be oil-free to avoid damage to the glue that holds the lash extensions in place.