How To Clean Fake Eyelashes The Right Way & Tips To Follow

Learn how to clean fake eyelashes the right way to make them last longer! False eyelashes have a significant impact on your entire appearance. Whether you want voluminous eyelashes or a more sensational fringe, the perfect pair of lashes will do the trick. Although you may be used to throwing away your false eyelashes after a weekend of fun, we are here to inform you that as long as you know how to clean false lashes, you can reuse them. If you are looking for some fast fixes to make your falsies last longer and appear new even after several uses, you have come to the right place. Keep reading to learn more!

Keep In Mind

• Reusable: Reusable A fake eyelash can be reused up to 5 times. If it is made of mink or silk, it can be used up to 20 times.
• Nourish The Lashes: Reusable Nourish your natural lashes and keep them moisturized with castor oil to avoid unhealthy lashes from adhesive use.
• Caution: Reusable Do not use alcohol to remove or clean the lashes if you have skin allergies like eczema, psoriasis, or sensitive skin.

Different Types Of Fake Eyelashes

Let us break down the different types of false lashes:

1. Magnetic Lashes

Magnetic lashes are a game-changer for anyone tired of messy glue applications. These lashes are equipped with tiny magnets along the lash band, providing a secure fit with minimal effort. Simply pair them with a magnetic liner for a quick, hassle-free application. These are reusable, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective, perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.

2. Strip Lashes

Strip lashes are available in various styles, lengths, and thicknesses, allowing you to experiment with different looks. From subtle wispiness to bold volume, strip lashes cater to every mood and occasion.

3. Individual Lashes

Individual lashes are ideal for a more natural and tailored lash enhancement. These single lash strands are applied directly to the lash line. They are perfect for achieving a subtle, natural look or filling sparse areas.

4. Cluster Lashes

Cluster lashes, the best of both worlds of individual and strip lashes, are a time-saving solution. These pre-made bundles of lashes offer quick application while allowing for customization. They are ideal for those who want to add volume and drama without spending too much time, making you look fabulous in a flash.

5. DIY Lash Extensions

For a semi-permanent solution, DIY lash extensions are the ultimate choice. These are applied beneath the natural lashes. They offer a natural, undetectable finish lasting several days. These extensions are perfect for those looking to skip the daily lash routine while maintaining a flawless look.

Fake eyelashes are every beauty enthusiast’s secret weapon. They instantly elevate any look and open up a world of glamorous possibilities. However, proper cleaning and maintenance are key to keeping them looking flawless and ensuring they last.

How To Clean False Eyelashes For Reuse

Even your most inexpensive pair of false eyelashes need some good old cleaning so that they look and feel fresh. The first and foremost trick is to remove them gently with the help of an oil-free eye makeup remover instead of just pulling them off your lids (a BIG no-no!). Here are a bunch of tried-and-tested techniques to clean your false lashes with utter perfection.

Cleaning False Eyelashes With Dish Soap

Dish soap is highly effective in cleaning false eyelashes due to its oil-cutting and antibacterial properties. It gently breaks down the grease, lash glue buildup, and mascara, making it easier to clean your lashes. It also kills bacteria and other germs on the lashes efficiently. What makes this dish soap so convenient is its ‘easy-to-rinse’ formula. Additionally, dish soap leaves no residues and is affordable and easily accessible.

What You Need

• Liquid dish soap
• Wide dish
• Hot water
• Paper towels
• Clean mascara wand
• Tweezers

Procedure

Step 1: Pour some hot water into a wide dish. Add a teaspoon of liquid dish soap and mix it in well.

Step 2: Place your lashes in this soapy solution for about 15 seconds.

Step 3: Once you take your lashes out, use a pair of sharp tweezers that you would use only for this on a regular basis to pull out any remaining glue from the lash strips gently.

Step 4: Rinse the lashes with warm water.

Step 5: Blot the lashes on a paper towel to remove excess water or any remaining dampness. If you find that your lashes are stuck together, use a clean mascara wand to brush them out.

Step 6: Once the lashes are completely dry, use your tweezers to place them back into the box.

How To Clean Fake Eyelashes Using Alcohol Safely

Rubbing alcohol disinfects your lashes while also removing stubborn dirt and glue from the fake lashes. It kills germs from the lash surface and prevents bacterial buildup. Unlike oil-based cleansers, alcohol evaporates quickly without leaving residues.

What You Need

• Rubbing alcohol
• Glass container
• Cotton swabs
• Tweezers
• Paper towels
• Clean mascara wand

Procedure

Step 1: Pour a bit of rubbing alcohol in a glass container. It should be enough to submerge the lashes completely.

Step 2: Place the lashes in the alcohol for about a minute.

Step 3: Use cotton swabs to gently rub off the glue and gunk out of the lashes and the lash bands.

Step 4: Place the false eyelashes on a paper towel to blot and soak up any remnants of the alcohol. Drying them before putting them in proper storage is very important.

Step 5: If your lashes look a little clumpy, use a mascara wand to fan them out.

Step 6: Use your tweezers to place them back inside their box.

Cleaning False Eyelashes With Eye Makeup Remover

Eye makeup remover is specially formulated to ensure eye and skin safety. It is a gentle but effective way to remove mascara, lash glue, and makeup buildup without damaging the lash fibers. It retains the elasticity of the fibers and keeps the lash band flexible. Another reason to use eye makeup remover is that it extends the number of times you can reuse fake eyelashes.

What You Need

• Oil-free eye makeup remover
• Glass bowl
• Cotton swabs
• Paper towels
• Tweezers

Procedure

Step 1: Pour a small amount of eye makeup remover into a glass bowl, and place your lashes in this solution for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 2: Once you remove them, place them on a paper towel. Use cotton swabs to rub the loosened gunk off of them.

Step 3: Use tweezers to pull out any remaining glue from the base strip.

Step 4: Once your lashes are clean and dry, store them in their box until you need them again.

Quick Tip

You can use micellar water in a similar process to clean your fake eyelashes too. However, soak the lashes in it for 10-15 minutes, as micellar water is milder.

Cleaning False Eyelashes Using Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a non-drying and non-damaging way of cleaning fake lashes. Its antimicrobial properties prevent bacterial buildup and reduce the risk of infections so you can reuse the lashes. The oil’s nourishing properties make the lashes appear shiny and healthy. The added benefit of using coconut oil to clean your falsies is that they can be cleaned while you’re still wearing them!

What You Need

• Extra virgin coconut oil
• Paper towels
• Cotton swabs
• Tweezers

Procedure

Step 1: Place your used lashes on a paper towel.

Step 2: To loosen the built-up mascara and glue residue, dip a cotton swab in some coconut oil and rub it over the false lashes.

Step 3: Remove any leftover traces of glue from the lash strip with a pair of tweezers.

Step 4: Using a fresh paper towel, soak up any excess oil by blotting the lashes.

Step 5: Once your lashes are completely clean, gently place them back inside their box.

Clean False Eyelashes Using Baby Shampoo

Baby shampoos are specially crafted for sensitive skin. They do not irritate the eyes and their gentle formula ensures safe cleaning of the lashes. A baby shampoo removes gunk, glue, and makeup from the lash bands without disrupting their structure. It does not leave any greasy film as well.

What You Need

• Mild baby shampoo
• Warm water
• Cotton swabs
• Paper towels
• Tweezers

Procedure

Step 1: Dilute a teaspoon of baby shampoo in about a quarter cup of warm water.

Step 2: Place your eyelashes in this soapy solution and allow them to soak for about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Blot out any excess water from the lashes using paper towels.

Step 4: If there are any traces of adhesive still stuck to the lash bands, gently remove them with your tweezers.

Step 5: Place the lashes back into their box, so their shape is maintained until you use them the next time.

Wendy, a YouTuber, shares how she cleans her false eyelashes with a mild eyelash shampoo. She cleans the falsies with the shampoo and appropriately brushes them for maximum cleanliness and no boogers. She also says, “I don’t use oils on my lashes, I’m scared I might ruin my lashes (i).

Cleaning Individual False Eyelashes

Individual falsies or cluster lashes are far more delicate, and it’s easier to damage their hairs. You need to be very gentle while cleaning them.

What You Need

• Oil-free eye makeup remover or coconut oil
• Cotton pads
• Tweezers

Procedure

Step 1: Soak a cotton pad in an oil-free eye makeup remover or coconut oil, and hold the pad over your closed eyelid for about 30 seconds to break down the glue.

Step 2: Once the lashes are loose enough to lift, gently remove them without pulling onto your skin.

Step 3: Place each cluster lash between two fresh cotton pads soaked in makeup remover. Gently rub them to remove any leftover grime.

Step 4: When they are dry and clean, use a pair of tweezers to place them back inside their box.

However, it is not usually recommended to clean and reuse individual lashes as they may lose a proper curl and shape and are extremely fragile.

Now that you have explored some useful tips for cleaning synthetic lashes, let’s uncover the best cleaning methods for other types of falsies. Continue reading.

Tips To Clean Magnetic And Mink Lashes 

Certain different lash types require specific cleaning methods and materials to ensure longevity and prevent damage. Scroll down to learn the ideal ways to clean magnetic and mink lashes. 

Magnetic Lashes

• Dip a cotton swab with micellar water, then wipe it along the lash band and on the magnets to remove residues.  
• Lay the lashes flat on a lint-free cloth and let them air-dry. Do not use a blow-dryer as high temperatures can weaken the band’s structure. 

Mink Lashes

• Hold the lashes by the lash bands and gently pull the glue with tweezers. 
• Dampen a cotton Q-tip with a few drops of oil-free makeup remover and wipe it gently on the lash bands. Avoid rubbing the Q-tip on the fibers to prevent breakage. 
• Then, lay the lashes flat on a microfiber towel. If they have lost their natural shape, wrap them around a cylindrical surface and reshape them. 

Tip: Avoid soaking both magnetic and mink lashes in cleaning solutions. This can weaken the adhesive holding the magnets in the former and distort the curl shape of the latter. 

These are some effective ways to clean falsies easily. The above-mentioned products can swiftly remove the gunk from the lashes, making them suitable for reuse. But, how do you ensure 100% damage-free cleaning? The techniques used while cleaning play a vital role in determining whether the lashes lose their shape and break. Learn what to avoid doing when cleaning your falsies in the next session. Take a look. 

What To Avoid When Cleaning Fake Eyelashes

Here are the common mistakes that you should avoid to extend the lifespan of the falsies and retain their original shine and elasticity, such as:  

1. Soaking The Lashes In the Cleaning Solution For A Long Time: This weakens the lash band and breaks the lashes. Instead, dip a cotton swab in the solution and rub it on the lashes for effective cleaning. 
2. Using Hot Water: Hot water can break the lashes and distort their shape. Use lukewarm water when rinsing to remove the dirt gently. 
3. Scrubbing The Lashes Harshly: Excessive or aggressive rubs cause strong friction that ruins the lashes’ shine and elasticity. This can make the lashes brittle as well. Gently wipe the lashes with a cotton pad soaked in the cleaning solution to avoid damage. 
4. Peeling Off Lash Glue Aggressively: Tugging on the lash band roughly will misshape its structure and cause breakage. Instead, use a tweezer dipped in the cleaning solution to dissolve the glue on the band. 
5. Drying Lashes With Towels: Synthetic lashes may stick to the towels and mess up their structure. So air-dry the falsies on a lint-free surface for even and effective drying. 
6. Storing Wet Or Semi-Wet Lashes: Damp lashes are hosts for bacterial buildup. Wet lashes, if stored, ultimately lose their natural shape. Ensure the lashes are completely dry before storing them in their original case. 

Now that you have a fair idea of how to clean false lashes and what to avoid, here are some tips and precautions that will come in handy when you’re doing this.

Tips: Cleaning And Maintaining False Eyelashes To Get The Most Out Of Them

It is important to wash your hands with antibacterial soap before touching your falsies to prevent any germs or impurities from getting into your eye.

• When removing fake eyelashes, do not use too much force to pull the eyelash glue off from the lash line. This will not just ruin your falsies but also pluck out your natural lashes. Instead, dab some eye makeup remover on a cotton pad and let it soak into the adhesive, so the lashes come off with ease.
• Reshape the lashes by wrapping them around a cylindrical surface before storing them. Certain kinds of fake lashes like the mink lashes clump together after cleaning. Brush the lashes with a clean spoolie to re-fluff them. 
• It’s best to store your lashes in their boxes between uses. The curved platform helps in the maintenance and care of the naturally curved shape of your falsies. Keep the lash box in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. 
• Do not apply harsh chemicals directly to your falsies while you’re wearing them. Your eyes and the area surrounding them are incredibly sensitive.
• Wearing your false eyelashes for extended periods may damage your hair follicles. In rare cases, the lash extensions may cause lash loss also. It is crucial to give your natural lashes a break from any kind of makeup or adhesives every now and then.
• Avoid holding the falsies by the lashes. The oils on your fingers can weaken the lash band adhesive. Instead, hold them by the lash band or use a tweezer during application and removal. 
• To maintain proper eye hygiene, the removal of your false lashes before you hit the bed is especially important. If you sleep with them on overnight, it can cause eye irritation or an infection due to the adhesive.

Quick Tip

If you notice that stubborn gunks have become harder to remove from your falsies or the lashes are falling apart, it is time to replace them.

The above-listed tips help keep your fake lashes in the best condition. But, what if you make some mistakes while cleaning and encounter serious issues that can impact the look, feel, and longevity of your falsies? Learn some troubleshooting tips to tackle common problems in the next section. Continue scrolling. 

How To Fix Common Problems When Cleaning Fake Lashes

You can encounter certain common issues during and after cleaning falsies. But, knowing the right troubleshooting strategies can help you fix the problems right away and prevent further damage, such as: 

1. Lash Loss: This happens when you handle the lash fibers roughly and use excessive cleaning liquid. 
   • Hold the falsies by the lash band and gently pull the glue layer with tweezers. 
2. Clumped Lashes: This happens if makeup remover residues dry on the fibers. 
   • Use a clean spoolie to comb and fluff up the lashes. In case the lashes still feel stiff, mist them with micellar water to separate the lashes from each other and reshape them. 
3. Misshaped Lash Bands: Excessive soaking of the falsies in cleaning solutions can weaken the lash bands and make them flexible. 
   • Wrap the lash bands around a cylindrical object such as a makeup brush’s handle to reshape them. Once dry, store the falsies in their original curved boxes to maintain their natural shape. 
4. Residue Build-up: This is the result of not removing glue remnants from the lashes while cleaning. 
   • Dampen a cotton pad with an oil-free makeup remover and wipe the lash band. If the build-up is stiff and feels difficult to remove. Press the pad on the lashes for 30-40 seconds before wiping.
5. Flat and Lifeless-Looking Lashes: Harsh cleansers and rough cleaning methods leave the false lashes looking dull and flat.
   • Use coconut oil to clean the lashes as it will remove the glue while conditioning the fibers. Additionally, lightly brush the lashes with a clean spoolie to restore their natural volume and length.

Infographic: 6 Interesting Fake Eyelash Facts You Didn’t Know

Fake eyelashes are pretty incredible once you get used to them. They don’t stick, smudge, or clump together, are simple to remove, and give anyone magnificent, perfectly split, thick lashes instantly. But that’s not all! Check out the infographic below for more compelling reasons to keep fake eyelashes in your makeup bag.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use micellar water to clean eyelash extensions?

Yes, you can use micellar water to remove dirt and makeup from eyelash extensions. Just dip a lash brush into micellar water and rub it gently on the lashes.

How often should one clean fake eyelashes?

Ideally, fake lashes should be cleaned after each use. To get rid of any makeup product, oil, debris, or bacteria.

How long do fake eyelashes last if cleaned and taken care of properly?

Depending on the quality of the lashes, they can last up to 3-5 uses.

Are there any specific cleaning products or solutions that work best for cleaning fake eyelashes?

No, but micellar water, oil-free makeup remover, and regular water with mild soap can be used to clean them.

Can you clean fake eyelashes using only water, or is it necessary to use a cleaning solution?

Clean your fake lashes using warm water with mild soap instead of the cleaning solution.

How can you make sure your fake eyelashes maintain their shape and style after cleaning them?

Store them in a clean, dry place, use high-quality glue, avoid using mascara, remove them gently, and clean them after each use.

Illustration: How To Clean Fake Eyelashes The Right Way & Tips To Follow

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

Clean and store your false lashes like a pro. These simple yet effective tips will increase their shelf life and keep them looking as good as new. Check out this video.

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Daria KruchininaLicensed Esthetician

       

Daria Kruchinina is a celebrity makeup and natural brows artist who has been in the beauty industry for 11 years. Her clients include A-list celebrities, such as Jared Leto, Natalia Vodyanova, Maria Gutic, Valentina Beli, and Valeria Dergileva, to name a few.

Read full bio of Daria Kruchinina

Esha SaxenaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art.

Read full bio of Esha Saxena

Subhrojyoti MukherjeeAssociate Editor

Subhrojyoti is an associate editor at StyleCraze with four years of experience. He has a master’s degree in English from Presidency University, Kolkata, and has also done a post-graduate certificate course in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University, Kolkata.

Read full bio of Subhrojyoti Mukherjee

Joyce JoysonBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience creating engaging content for the beauty, lifestyle, and tattoo niches. She holds a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a Master’s in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.

Read full bio of Joyce Joyson