HOW TO REMOVE LASH EXTENSIONS SAFELY
What Are Lash Removals For?
Clients may book a lash removal for a few different reasons. Some just want to take a break, while others are ready for a fresh set with a new style or mapping, which means a full removal is needed. Removals are also common if a client is feeling irritation, poking, or discomfort from an improper applications.
If a client has an allergic reaction to the adhesive or any of its ingredients, the safest option is to remove the entire set and recommend seeking medical advice.
There are several safe ways to remove eyelash extensions in all of these situations. When done correctly, the removal process is gentle and won't damage the natural lashes.
Is It Safe to Do a Removal at Home?
We do not recommend removing lash extensions at home on your own. Doing so can be dangerous and may lead to infection, especially when unsanitary tools are used. Household oils such as coconut oil or olive oil are not effective, as they are not strong enough to break down professional lash adhesive.
During a professional removal, the eyes must remain closed while the remove is applied. If remover enters the eyes, it can cause painful burning or irritation. Pulling off lash extensions is never recommended, as it can also pull out natural lashes and cause damage.
For your safety and lash health, we highly recommend visiting a licensed professional, or returning to the same lash artist who applied your set, for proper removal.
Materials Needed for Removal
- Eye pads or under eye patches for removals
- Lip applicators
- Glue ring or cup
- Cream or gel remover
- Tweezers
- Lash shampoo
- Cleansing brush
- Drip bottle
- Towel or paper towels
- Tape (optional)
- Lash film (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide on Safe Lash Removal
- Apply eye pads or under eye patches to your clients under eyes as usual. This prevents any excess remover from getting into their eyes or onto their skin that will cause them any discomfort. Ensure that your client's eyes stay closed through the entire process.
- (Optional) Tape the lash extensions down to the eye pad to prevent the lashes being in the way when applying the remover.
- Using a lip applicator, scoop only the amount of cream or gel remover needed and place it into your glue ring or cup. Always use a clean lip applicator each time you scoop product from the container to prevent cross-contamination.
- Apply the remover to the base of the lash extensions, slightly above the base. Do not allow the remover to touch your client's skin.
- (Optional) You may place plastic film or an additional eye pad over the remover. This helps retain heat and can speed up the removal process.
- Allow the remover to sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Using a clean pair of tweezers of lip applicators, gently slide the lash extensions off. Be careful not to tug or pull hard enough to remove the client's natural lashes. For stubborn lashes, apply a small amount of additional remover and wait a few more minutes, or gently pinch the base with tweezers to help break down the bond.
- Once all extensions are removed, use lip applicators to thoroughly remove any remaining residue. Remove as much product as possible before introducing water to avoid shock polymerization. Shock polymerization can cause the residue to turn white, which may affect retention if you plan to apply a fresh set immediately.
- After all residue is removed, take off the eye pads. Using a cleansing brush, lash shampoo, drip bottle, and towel, perform at least two lash baths, cleansing the entire eye area to ensure everything is completely clean.
Removing lash extensions professionally is a simple and often satisfying process. It’s important to communicate with your client throughout the service, regularly checking in to ensure they are comfortable and encouraging them to speak up if they feel any discomfort.
Depending on the condition of their natural lashes, you may also recommend an eyelash serum between sets to help support and stimulate healthy lash growth.