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Cleaning reusable strip false lashes is a matter of removing adhesive from the band, wiping away makeup with a gentle eye makeup remover, and letting the pair air-dry on its original tray. Some brands allow warm water and mild soap, so check the manufacturer's instructions before soaking the lashes. Ardell recommends using gentle eye makeup remover on the band and lashes.
KISS says many of its strip lashes can be reused up to 10 times with proper care, although the lifespan depends on the lash construction, adhesive and cleaning method.
This method is for reusable strip lashes, not semi-permanent eyelash extensions.
At-a-Glance Cleaning Guide
| Lash type | Recommended cleaning method | Important caution |
|---|---|---|
| Reusable strip lashes | Gentle eye makeup remover, or warm water and mild soap if the brand allows it | Do not scrub the fibers |
| Self-adhesive lashes | Follow the brand's instructions, often using water or an oil-free remover | Oil can reduce adhesive performance |
| Lash clusters or wisps | Use the remover specified for the adhesive system | Remove residue from the band carefully |
| Semi-permanent extensions | Clean them while they are applied, following the technician's instructions | Do not pull or soak extensions off |
Eyelash extensions have different hygiene and removal requirements from temporary strip lashes. Incorrect removal can irritate the eyelid or damage natural lashes.
What You Need to Clean False Lashes
- Clean hands
- Clean tweezers
- A cotton swab or lint-free pad
- Gentle eye makeup remover, or warm water and mild soap if the brand allows it
- The original lash tray or a clean lash case
How to Clean Reusable Strip Lashes
1. Wash Your Hands
Wash and dry your hands before handling the lashes. Clean hands and tools help reduce the chance of transferring bacteria near the eye.
2. Remove the Lashes Gently
Loosen the adhesive before lifting the lash. If it does not come away easily, press a cotton pad lightly against the closed eye for a few seconds with a suitable eye makeup remover.
Lift the lash from the outer corner and work slowly toward the inner corner. Pulling quickly can tug on your natural lashes.
3. Remove Dried Glue From the Band
Hold the lash by the fibers or outer edge. Use clean tweezers to peel dried adhesive away from the band.
Pull along the band instead of scraping across the fibers. If the glue is difficult to remove, soften it with a small amount of eye makeup remover first.
4. Clean Makeup and Residue
For standard strip lashes, wipe the band and fibers with a small amount of gentle eye makeup remover. Ardell gives this instruction for cleaning its lashes before returning them to the tray.
Use only as much liquid as needed. Too much moisture can weaken the band, loosen the fibers or change the curl.
5. Rinse Only When the Brand Allows It
Some reusable strip lashes can be washed in warm water with a small amount of mild soap. KISS recommends washing compatible strip lashes gently, rinsing them, removing loosened glue and allowing them to air-dry.
Do not assume every lash can be soaked. Handmade, delicate, self-adhesive and magnetic lashes may need a different method.
6. Air-Dry the Lashes
Place the clean lashes back on their original tray and let them air-dry naturally. Reshape the band while it is damp if needed.
Do not rub the lashes with a towel. Towel fibers can catch on the band and change its shape.
7. Store Them in a Clean Case
Once the lashes are completely dry, store them in their original tray or a clean, closed lash case. Covering them helps keep dust and makeup residue off the fibers.
How to Clean False Lashes Without Ruining Them
- Do not scrub the fibers.
- Do not pull dried glue off aggressively.
- Do not use acetone, nail-polish remover or other harsh solvents.
- Do not use oily remover on self-adhesive lashes unless the manufacturer says it is safe.
- Do not share false lashes with another person.
- Do not store damp lashes in a closed case.
- Do not reuse lashes that are misshapen, frayed or difficult to clean.
Cleaning removes makeup and adhesive, but it does not make false lashes sterile. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises avoiding eye cosmetics during an eye infection or when the skin around the eye is inflamed. It also recommends discarding eye cosmetics used during an infection.
How Often Should You Clean False Lashes?
Clean reusable false lashes after every wear. Removing adhesive while it is still easier to lift helps prevent a thick, hardened layer from building up on the band.
How many times you can reuse a pair depends on its construction, the adhesive, the makeup used and the cleaning method. KISS says many of its strip lashes can be reused up to 10 times with proper care. Ardell says the number of uses varies by the wearer.
When Should You Throw False Lashes Away?
Discard false lashes when:
- The band is bent, cracked or no longer sits flat.
- The fibers are shedding or visibly damaged.
- Glue remains stuck after gentle cleaning.
- The lashes develop an unusual smell or visible contamination.
- You wore them while you had an eye infection.
- They cause redness, itching, swelling, pain or irritation.
If irritation continues after you remove the lashes, stop using the adhesive and eye cosmetics and contact a healthcare professional.