Eyelash extensions can change the look of your face and add glamor to your daily routine. However, there might be a day when you would want to remove them—either due to damage or perhaps for comfort or changing your style altogether. This guide covers not only the process of how to remove eyelash extensions safely but also some valuable information for a thorough eyelash extension removal process.
What are Eyelash Extensions
Before talking about how to remove eyelash extensions, you also have to understand what eyelash extensions are. Eyelash extensions refer to semi-permanent fibers applied onto your natural lashes with a special kind of adhesive. They can add extra length, volume, or curl to your lashes for a more dramatic look.
Although they can last for some period after installing them, they may wear out at one point or you might be in dire need of getting away with the maintenance required to keep them in place. In such a case, it is very important that the eyelash extension is removed in a safe manner so that it does not damage your lashes.
Why You Should Consider Professional Removal
While it is tempting to remove them at home, the safest and most efficient method is to visit a professional lash technician—that’s what they’re for. Professional eyelash extension therapists in Sydney have the tools and expertise necessary to remove the extensions without damaging your natural lashes. However, if you still want to do it yourself, proceed with caution and read on for guidelines.
How to Take Off Eyelash Extensions: Step-by-Step
Removing eyelash extensions can be a sensitive task, but with the right method, you can achieve it safely and effectively. Here is a step-by-step comprehensive guide to help you remove your eyelash extensions at home:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure the following materials are available:
- Oil-based makeup remover or coconut oil, will help dissolve the adhesive.
- Cotton pads or swabs: Use these pads to apply the remover.
- Soft Towel: To ensure the area around remains dry, and to catch any drips.
- Eyelash extension remover (available as an optional product for dissolving adhesive).
- Warm water in a bowl (optional): To help with the process.
Step 2: Prep Your Face
- Purity of Your Skin: Start with a light cleanse of the face. Remove all of your makeup, especially around the eyes because makeup oils can lubricate, causing your extensions to shift or fall out.
- Drying: Pat dry with a gentle towel. Ensure that your lashes are free of oil and product.
Step 3: Apply the Oil-Based Remover
- Soak a Cotton Pad: Dip a cotton pad with your oil-based makeup remover or coconut oil.
- Put on Eyelids: Close your eyes and gently put the soaked cotton pad on your eyelids. It shall loosen up the adhesive. Leave it there for 5-10 minutes without rubbing.
Step 4: Start the Removal Process
- Use a Cotton Swab: After the oil has taken its own time to work, apply a clean cotton swab that you will be using to dip in the oil.
- Softly Swipe Along the Lash Line: Position the cotton swab gently along your lash line, and be careful to run it very gently. This acts to dissolve the adhesive keeping the extensions attached at an advanced level.
- Observe Extensions: Wait a little while and observe whether extensions start sticking up. If they don’t move, apply more oil and let it stand a little while longer.
Step 5: Remove the Extensions
- Gently Pull-Off Extensions: If the extensions have loosened, you may now start to pull them off. Grip the base of the extension with your fingers and gently pull it away from your natural lash. Be very gentle, do not yank or tug.
- Repeat if Necessary: If some extensions are still left on, repeat the application of oil and gently pull off everything until all extensions are removed.
Step 6: Moisturize Your Natural Lashes
- Apply a nourishing serum: Your natural lashes will require special care after removal. Lash Serum or castor oil assists in moisturizing and growth.
- Do not wear mascara: Give your natural lashes a break from all the mascara you wear. Keep them free from the clutches of mascara at least for a week or so before trying out extensions.
What to Expect After Eyelash Extension Removal
Removing eyelash extensions is a major step for any person who intends to return to their natural lashes. Given that the procedure can sometimes be quite simple, it is necessary to know a timeline post-removal to take proper care and appropriately adjust expectations. Here’s a very detailed overview of what you can expect post-removal
Immediate Sensation
- Sensitive lashes: After removing the lash extensions, the eyelids may be sensitive to touches. This is usually due to pressure imposed when pulling off the eyelashes. Furthermore, oil-based removers usually leave behind an oily residue, which is strange at first.
- Irritation: These people may develop some form of redness or irritation in the area surrounding the eyelids. Most of this should clear off after about a couple of hours. If the redness persists for a longer period, then it is advisable to go to a doctor.
Appearance of Your Natural Lashes
- Sparse Areas: Depending on how well the extensions are and what adhesive was used, as well as depending on the removal process, sparse areas or patches may exist where the extensions were. This can result from breakages around attachment areas during the application or removal process.
- Frayed Ends: your natural lashes will probably appear a bit frayed or broken up immediately after removal. It is mostly normal, especially if these extensions have stayed for a long period without intermissions.
- Shorter Length: It’s also completely normal to experience your lashes looking shorter than before for a few weeks after removal. This is mainly because the lash extensions add such tremendous length and volume to your natural lashes. Don’t worry; the natural length of your lashes will come back over time.
Lash Health
- Weak lashes: Your natural lashes will appear weaker or thinner immediately after the removal process. The adhesive might be harmful to your lash health, but with proper care, they should recover over time.
- Cycles of Lash Growth: Lashes undergo their growth cycles. Some of your lashes when removed could be in other stages of their cycle and can contribute to this uneven appearance.
Care Recommendations
- Moisturize: Once you have removed them, apply a hydrating lash serum or castor oil. It will facilitate healthy growth after its removal and can strengthen your lashes for fuller regrowth.
- Avoid Makeup: Steer clear from using mascara, heavy eye makeup, and such products for at least a week. This will allow your lashes to breathe and actually recover.
- Tender Cleaning: You need to be gentle when you are cleansing your face and eyes. Do not rub or pull on your lashes now.
Growth and Recovery Time
- Time for Full Recovery: As much as 3 months is the time taken in full recovery of your lashes. However, this will differ for every individual based on lash growth cycles and overall health.
- Initial Growth: On average, it takes a couple of weeks to settle and start looking fuller. After about 4-6 weeks, you should be noticing some positive improvements from the shedding and new growth of your lashes.
Long-term Effects
- Potential Damage: If applied poorly or your natural lashes somehow get weakened when it is being worn, you can expect to face some permanent damage. Your lashes may grow thinner than they used to, or they just may be growing much slower. Properly using nourishing products on your lashes can undo some of these problems.
- Future Applications: If you ever want to get eyelash extensions again, it is recommended that you wait at least a month. This time would allow your natural lashes to recoup and develop back to support the application of the new extensions.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience irritation, pain, or redness after your eyelash extensions, it’s important to consult a physician. Our skilled lash technicians at SheinaMill in Sydney are also here to help with any concerns about your natural lashes and can provide recommendations for healing and restoration. Your lash health is our priority!
Conclusion
Safe removal of eyelash extensions is, perhaps, the most important thing one needs to know to preserve healthy natural lashes. Whether you do it yourself or under a professional’s guidance, knowing the proper ways and tips can make all the difference. This guide for removing eyelash extensions will ensure you have a smooth and safe time getting over the extensions. Remember, it’s always for the health of your lashes, and give love and care to those natural lashes!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I take off eyelash extensions at home?
Yes, you may do this at home using oil-based makeup remover or even special eyelash extension remover.
2.How long does it take to have eyelash extensions removed?
The removal process usually takes around half an hour or an hour, depending on the number of extensions and the technique used.
3.When will eyelash extensions damage your natural lashes?
If removed correctly, it is harmless to natural lashes, but the improper technique of removal or using harsh products can make them break or even thin out.
4.How soon can you have eyelash extensions applied after they have been taken off?
It is advisable to wait for at least 2-4 weeks after you have removed your extensions before applying for new ones. This gives your natural lashes time to regain and grow.
5.What are some tips on proper care of my natural lashes after removal?
To take proper care of natural lashes, nourish them with a lash serum, avoid heavy eye makeup for a week, and don’t rub the face while washing it.