The Truth About DIY Lash Extensions: Can You Get Them Wet?

DIY lash extensions have become a popular beauty trend, offering the promise of longer, fuller lashes without the need for frequent salon visits. However, many people wonder about the care and maintenance of these lash extensions, especially when it comes to getting them wet. If you’re considering DIY lash extensions or already have them applied, it’s important to understand the dos and don’ts of caring for them. One of the most common questions is: can you get DIY lash extensions wet? In this article, we’ll explore this question, share tips on how to maintain your lash extensions, and provide troubleshooting advice to help you keep your lashes looking fabulous for as long as possible.

Table of Contents

What Are DIY Lash Extensions?

DIY lash extensions are a great way to enhance your natural lashes without the need for a professional lash technician. These extensions come in a variety of lengths, styles, and materials, including mink, synthetic, and silk options. Unlike strip lashes, which are temporary and removed at the end of the day, DIY lash extensions are semi-permanent and can last for weeks if applied correctly. The extensions are usually attached with a special adhesive designed for the lashes, and they are typically applied individually to each natural lash.

Why the Fuss About Getting DIY Lash Extensions Wet?

When it comes to DIY lash extensions, proper care is essential to ensure they last as long as possible. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether or not it’s okay to get DIY lash extensions wet. This concern stems from the fact that water can potentially weaken the adhesive used to bond the lashes to your natural ones. Getting them wet can cause the adhesive to break down faster, leading to premature shedding of the extensions.

Can You Get DIY Lash Extensions Wet?

The short answer is: it depends. While it’s not ideal to get your DIY lash extensions wet immediately after application, there are some exceptions and ways to manage it properly. Let’s break this down into more detail:

1. The Initial 24-48 Hours

After you apply your DIY lash extensions, it’s crucial to avoid getting them wet for the first 24 to 48 hours. During this period, the adhesive is still curing and bonding to your natural lashes. Water can weaken the bond before the adhesive has fully set, causing the extensions to fall off prematurely.

Avoid washing your face during this time. Instead, opt for gentle wipes or a makeup remover that doesn’t require water.
Avoid steamy environments such as hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms as they can also cause the adhesive to break down.
No swimming in pools or hot tubs within the first 48 hours to prevent excess moisture.

2. After 48 Hours: Yes, You Can Get Them Wet (But Carefully)

Once the initial curing period is over, you can safely get your DIY lash extensions wet. However, it’s important to take a few precautions to ensure the longevity of your lashes.

Use a gentle cleanser: When washing your face or taking a shower, be sure to use a gentle, oil-free cleanser. Oil can break down the adhesive faster, leading to shorter wear times.
Avoid direct water pressure: When washing your face or taking a shower, avoid direct streams of water on your lashes. Instead, use a damp cloth or a gentle splash of water to cleanse the area around your eyes.
Pat dry gently: After getting your lashes wet, gently pat them dry with a clean towel or allow them to air dry. Avoid rubbing or pulling on the extensions.

3. Swimming and Other Water Activities

If you’re planning to swim or engage in other water activities, it’s important to take extra steps to protect your DIY lash extensions. Chlorine, salt water, and the general exposure to moisture can shorten the lifespan of your lashes.

Use a waterproof mascara: If you want to give your lashes an extra boost or protect them from water, consider using a waterproof mascara designed for lash extensions.
Wear protective goggles: If you’re swimming, try wearing goggles to minimize the contact of water with your lashes.
Dry your lashes immediately: After any water exposure, gently pat your lashes dry with a clean, soft towel.

Step-by-Step Process for Applying DIY Lash Extensions

If you’ve never applied DIY lash extensions before, the process can seem a bit tricky. But with patience and the right tools, you can achieve salon-worthy results at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying your DIY lash extensions:

Gather your supplies: You’ll need eyelash extensions (choose the type and length that best suits your style), a strong adhesive, an applicator tool, a lash primer, and some microfiber brushes for application.
Clean your natural lashes: Before applying extensions, cleanse your natural lashes thoroughly to remove any oil, dirt, or makeup. This ensures the adhesive bonds effectively.
Prepare your workspace: Ensure you have a clean, well-lit workspace. Lay out all your tools so you can easily access them during the process.
Apply the adhesive: Place a small amount of adhesive onto a clean surface (like a piece of foil). Using the applicator tool, dip it into the adhesive and carefully apply a small amount to the base of each lash extension.
Attach the extensions: Using the applicator tool, carefully apply each extension to your natural lash. Make sure you don’t attach them to the skin or eyelid, as this can cause irritation.
Let the extensions dry: Allow the adhesive to set for at least 1-2 minutes after each application before moving on to the next extension.
Repeat the process: Continue applying extensions to the rest of your lashes, working from the outer corners inward for a natural look.
Brush and shape: Once all extensions are applied, use a spoolie brush to comb through the lashes and ensure they’re even and well-separated.

After applying your DIY lash extensions, give them time to fully set, and avoid getting them wet during the first 24-48 hours as mentioned earlier.

Troubleshooting Tips for DIY Lash Extensions

Even with the best care, you might encounter a few issues while wearing DIY lash extensions. Here are some common problems and solutions:

1. Lash Extensions Falling Off Prematurely

Problem: If your extensions are falling off too soon, it could be due to excessive moisture or improper application.
Solution: Avoid getting them wet during the initial curing period, and ensure the adhesive is applied correctly without touching your skin. Also, avoid rubbing or pulling at the lashes.

2. Lashes Looking Clumpy or Uneven

Problem: Clumping can occur if too much adhesive is applied or if the lashes are placed too close together.
Solution: Use a minimal amount of adhesive and make sure each lash extension is properly spaced apart. Use a clean spoolie brush to separate them.

3. Irritation or Discomfort

Problem: If you experience irritation or discomfort, the adhesive may be too harsh for your skin or the lashes may be too close to your eyelids.
Solution: Make sure to use a hypoallergenic adhesive and avoid applying the extensions too close to the skin. If irritation persists, remove the extensions and consult a professional.

Conclusion

DIY lash extensions are an excellent way to achieve beautiful, voluminous lashes at home, but they require proper care to ensure they last as long as possible. While it’s okay to get your DIY lash extensions wet after the first 24-48 hours, it’s important to be cautious with moisture and avoid excessive water exposure. By following the tips and guidelines mentioned above, you can enjoy stunning lashes without compromising their longevity.

For more beauty tips and tricks, check out our comprehensive guide to lash care and explore our recommended lash extension products to ensure your DIY lashes stay fabulous.

This article is in the category Beauty & Personal Care and created by DIYCraft Team