Can you use micellar water to remove eyelash extensions?

As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain Amazon, Rewardstyle, and other affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may receive a small commission (at zero cost to you). Please see my full disclosure policy for details.

It’s no secret that in recent years, eyelash extensions have become a popular way to enhance one’s appearance. Whether you’re looking to add length, volume, or a little extra drama to your lashes, extensions can help you achieve your desired look. 

As with any beauty treatment, however, proper care and maintenance are essential to keeping your lashes looking their best. That’s why we’re here to talk about one of the most effective and gentle ways to clean your eyelash extensions: micellar water. 

In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about using micellar water on lash extensions, including additional products to use, how often to clean them, tips for maintaining their longevity, and we’ll even answer the popular question “can you use micellar water to remove eyelash extensions?” 

A woman pouring micellar water into the palm of her hand.

What is micellar water?

Before we get into how to use micellar water on your lashes, let’s first talk about what it is!

Micellar water is a water-based product that contains tiny micelles, which are oil molecules that are suspended in water. These micelles are able to attract and remove dirt, oil, and makeup residue from your skin without the need for harsh rubbing or scrubbing. 

Micellar water is known for being gentle and effective, making it a popular choice for those with sensitive skin.

Can you use micellar water on eyelash extensions?

You may be wondering, is it safe to use micellar water on lash extensions? The answer is yes!

Micellar water is a great product to use to clean lash extensions because it effectively removes makeup residue and oils without damaging the lashes. 

However, when shopping for micellar water for the purpose of cleansing your lashes, you will want to opt for water-based micellar water. 

It’s important to note that you should always avoid using oil-based products on your lash extensions as they can break down the lash adhesive and cause your extensions to fall out prematurely.

Water-Based Micellar Water vs Oil-Infused Micellar Water: Which One Should I Use to Clean My Eyelash Extensions?

When it comes to micellar water, there are two main types: water-based and oil-infused:

Shop Micellar Water

Water-Based Micellar Water

Water-based micellar water is a great option for those with oily skin or those who are prone to breakouts. It’s also ideal for removing water-based makeup, like mascara or eyeliner.

Since it doesn’t contain any oils, it’s safe to use around the eye area and on fake lashes without worrying about interfering with the eyelash glue. Plus, it’s easy to rinse off with lukewarm water.  As always, make sure to follow up with a lash brush to achieve perfect lashes.

Oil-Infused Micellar Water

Oil-infused micellar water is perfect for removing oil-based makeup, like waterproof mascara or eyeliner. It’s also a great option for those with dry skin, as it helps to moisturize and nourish your skin – but it should not be used to cleanse your lash extensions.

The oils can potentially loosen your lash adhesive, causing your extensions to fall out prematurely. If you do choose to use an oil-infused micellar water to cleanse your face, be sure to apply it sparingly and avoid getting it on the lash line.

If you are trying to remove your lash extensions, oil-infused micellar water is one of the most effective ways to help loosen the adhesive without damaging your natural eyelashes.

How To Remove Your Eyelash Extensions With Micellar Water

Your eyelash technician will advise you not to remove your false lashes on your own. However, let’s say you’re on vacation and some of your lashes fall out leaving you with sparse areas that look less than ideal. Naturally, you will want to remove what’s left.

Here how to remove lash extensions at home with micellar water

  1. Separate your lashes with a spoolie
  2. Soak a cotton pad in oil-based micellar water
  3. Hold the pad gently against your lashes and let the product soak in from above
  4. Repeat the process from underneath the lashes
  5. Gently slide the lashes off as they begin to loosen
A woman holding a purple spoolie and a black spoolie for brushing eyelashes.

How To Clean Your Eyelash Extensions

Tools You’ll Need

Before you get started cleaning your lashes, there are a couple of things you’ll need to have on hand:

  • Gentle Cleanser – Choose a gentle formula that is specifically designed for eyelash extensions or is oil-free.  Oil-free micellar water, lash shampoo, or baby shampoo are all great options.
  • Cleansing brush – Your eyelash technician should provide you with one, however, a larger eyeshadow brush works great as well. 
  • Lash brush or spoolie brush: For best results, use a lash brush to gently brush your eyelash extensions after cleaning to keep them looking neat and tidy.
  • Clean water: Make sure to use clean and soft water that is not too hot or cold.
  • Towel: Use a clean towel to gently pat your eyelash extensions dry after cleaning.
A woman cleaning her eyelashes with micellar water on a cotton pad.

How to use micellar water to clean lash extensions

Using micellar water to clean your lash extensions is incredibly easy! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. The first step is to pour a small amount of micellar water into the palm of your hand.
  2. Swirl your lash cleansing brush in the water and very gently brush it along the lashline in a downward motion on your lashes. This will allow the micelles to break down any makeup residue on your lash line. *If you don’t have a cleansing brush you can use your ring finger as well, just make sure not to apply too much pressure.  
  3. Cleanse the eye with cool or lukewarm water.
  4. Repeat on the other eye.
A woman holding a gentle cleanser for the face.

What other products can you use to clean lash extensions?

While micellar water is one of the best products for cleaning lash extensions, it’s not the only one. There are other products you can use to keep your lashes looking their best.

1. Lash Cleanser: Lash shampoos, such as Stacy Lash Shampoo, are specially formulated for cleaning eyelash extensions. They are designed to remove makeup residue, oils, dirt, and some of the most stubborn makeup products without damaging the lashes or the lash adhesive.

Use a gentle cleanser, and avoid harsh chemicals or oil-based products.

2. Baby Shampoo:  Baby shampoo can be a great gentle and affordable alternative to more expensive lash shampoos. It is a mild and pH-balanced cleanser that is gentle enough to use around the eyes and won’t irritate the skin or strip the lashes of their natural oils.

Simply mix a small amount in the palm of your hand with water to create a lather, then use a clean brush or your fingertips to gently massage the lashes and rinse with water.

3. Gentle Cleanser: A gentle oil-free cleanser is designed to be mild and non-irritating, making them another good choice for use around the eye area and on your extensions.  Just be sure to use an oil-free makeup remover or cleanser.

A women washing her face in the sink with a towel on her hair.

The Best Tips For Clean Lash Extensions

The best way to keep your lashes looking their best and ensure you get the most time between lash fills is to follow these guidelines for cleaning them:

  1. Use a gentle cleanser: Look for a cleanser that is specifically designed for lash extensions or that is gentle enough for sensitive skin.
  2. Avoid oil-based products: Oil-based cleansers and makeup removers can break down lash adhesive, causing your extensions to fall out prematurely.
  3. Use soft water: Hard water can cause buildup on your lash extensions, so it’s best to use soft water when cleaning them.  Micellar water is naturally formulated with soft water.
  4. Avoid using hot water: Hot water can also cause damage to your lash extensions, so it’s best to use lukewarm or cool water instead.
  5. Be Gentle: When cleaning your lash extensions, be gentle. Use a lash brush or your ring finger to remove any makeup residue or dirt. Avoid rubbing or pulling on the lashes, as this can damage your natural lashes and cause the extensions to fall off.
A woman putting micellar water on a cotton pad to remove her eyelashes.

Why It’s Important to Clean Your Eyelash Extensions

Lash extensions are incredibly convenient and a great option for amplifying your appearance, but they require proper care and maintenance for a couple of reasons:

  1. Makeup residue can build up on your lashes over time, causing them to look dull and lifeless. Cleaning them regularly helps them to stay fluffy and voluminous.
  2. Natural oils and sweat can also accumulate on your lashes, making them more prone to tangling and clumping.
  3. Failure to clean your lashes can also lead to eye infections and other eye health issues.

How Often Should You Clean Eyelash Extensions?

As we’ve already discussed, cleaning your eyelash extensions is crucial for keeping them looking fabulous and extending the time between fills. But how often should you be cleaning them? Well…. It depends!

The short answer is that you should be cleaning your eyelash extensions every day. Simply because your natural oils, makeup residue, and daily dirt and debris can accumulate on your lashes, potentially causing irritation or even infection if left uncleaned.

However, because everyone’s lifestyle is different, it may mean the frequency at which you need to clean your lashes may vary. If you’re someone who wears a lot of makeup or exercises frequently, it’s definitely best to clean your lashes daily to prevent buildup.

On the other hand, if you’re someone who doesn’t wear much makeup or is generally low-maintenance, you may be able to get away with cleaning your lashes every other day or a few times a week. 

The key is to pay attention to your lashes and clean them whenever you feel like they need it.  If you’re in doubt, always ask your lash artist as the maintenance can vary based on specific adhesives used.

A woman with long eyelashes.

Tips for Caring For Your Lash Extensions

To keep your lash extensions in good condition, follow these tips:

  1. Avoid rubbing or pulling on your lashes.
  2. Don’t use a lash curler on your extensions.
  3. Don’t wear mascara or eyeliner that is not approved for fake eyelashes.
  4. Use an eyelash extension cleanser to clean your lashes.
  5. Avoid getting your lashes wet for 24 hours after getting them done.
  6. Don’t use oil-based products, such as an oil-based makeup remover, near your lashes.
  7. Consider sleeping with a silk pillowcase.  
  8. Brush your lashes daily with a lash brush.
  9. Avoid using a cotton pad or cotton swab on your false lashes as it can cause snags.
  10. Schedule regular appointments with your lash stylist for touch-ups and fills.

The Best Micellar Water for Cleaning Eyelash Extensions

Here are some top picks for micellar water for cleaning eyelash extensions:

Garnier Micellar Water

This all around favorite is said to be the best micellar water for eyelash extensions. It’s gentle on the eyes and false eyelashes, but tough on waterproof makeup residue. It’s the perfect balance of cleansing power and gentleness.

Bioderma Sensibio H

This micellar water is specifically formulated for sensitive skin types, including those with sensitive eyes. It’s a great option if you’re prone to allergic reactions or have dry or oily skin.

La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra

This micellar water is specifically designed for sensitive skin and is free of parabens and oil. It effectively removes makeup, including waterproof mascara, without causing irritation to the eye area.

Simple Micellar Cleansing Water

This micellar water is gentle and effective with simple and clean ingredients.  It’s free of harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and colors. It’s another great option for those with sensitive skin.

Sephora Collection Micellar Cleansing Water

This product is vegan and free from parabens and sulfates. It is also gentle enough to use as an eye makeup remover and to clean lashes.

No matter which micellar water you choose, make sure it’s gentle, oil-free, and safe for use around the eye area. And remember, a little goes a long way!

Best Micellar Water For Removing Eyelash Extensions

Here is a popular option for removing eyelash extensions.

FAQ’s

Is all micellar water safe for eyelash extensions?

Yes, micellar waters are safe for eyelash extensions. However, if you’re using it to cleanse your lashes make sure to choose an oil-free and gentle formula.

Can you use micellar water to remove eyelash extensions?

Most lash stylists will recommend an oil-based product to gently remove lash extensions.  If you’re looking to remove your extensions, oil-based micellar water would be a good option.  Coconut oil and olive oil are also good options. 

How long do eyelash extensions last?

Eyelash extensions can last anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks depending on your natural lash cycle and how well you take care of them.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, there are several acceptable methods for cleaning lash extensions. However, micellar water is a great way to keep them in good shape and looking their best.

It’s a safe, effective, and gentle way to remove makeup and dirt without damaging your natural lashes or the lash adhesive on your extensions. 

Whichever product you use, remember to be gentle when cleaning your lashes and avoid using oil-based products!

More Posts You Might Like

Similar Posts