How to Clean False Eyelashes: And Reuse Them Multiple Times

You love the drama and volume of false lashes, but you probably hate the leftover glue and mascara gunk. Reusing lashes is a great way to save money and reduce waste, but only if you keep them sanitary. Dirty lashes can lead to eye infections, irritation, and a messy application the next time around.

This guide breaks down exactly how to clean fake lashes, whether you wear synthetic strips, pricey mink lashes, or magnetic pairs. We also cover how to safely wash lash extensions without ruining your fill. Read on to keep your flutter fresh and your eyes healthy.

Are False Lashes Reusable?

Yes, most false lashes are reusable. However, the lifespan depends heavily on the material and how well you treat them. Standard synthetic lashes usually last for 3 to 5 wears. High-quality synthetic or “faux mink” options can often last up to 8 wears.

Natural lashes, such as genuine mink, are more durable and can last up to 20 wears with proper care.

Regardless of the price tag, you should toss them immediately if the band is broken, the bristles are shedding, or you notice any buildup that won’t come off. Hygiene comes first; if they irritate your eyes, throw them away.

How to Remove Glue From Lashes

Old adhesive is the enemy of a seamless application. Before you wash the bristles, you need to detach the gunk from the band.

• Time: 5 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

What You’ll Need

• Tweezers
• Rubbing alcohol (optional)
• Cotton swab
• Paper towel

1. Peel Glue With Tweezers

Hold the lashes firmly by the base of the fibers; do not pull the delicate tips. Use your tweezers to grab the thick strip of dried glue. Gently peel it away from the lash band. It should come off in one or two strings.

2. Dissolve Stubborn Residue

If the glue is stubborn, dip a cotton swab in a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Run it along the lash band to break down the adhesive.

3. Wipe Clean

Use a paper towel to wipe away any dissolved glue. This step also disinfects the band, which helps prevent bacteria buildup.

How to Clean Synthetic False Lashes

The “soak method” is the most effective way to deep clean standard synthetic strip lashes. It breaks down mascara and face oils effectively.

Note: Do not use this method for mink or silk lashes; water soaking can ruin natural fibers.

• Time: 15 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

What You’ll Need

• Dish soap or micellar water
• Warm water
• Small bowl
• Paper towels
• Spoolie brush (optional)

1. Create a Cleaning Bath

Fill a small bowl with warm water. Add one teaspoon of gentle dish soap (like Dawn) or a splash of micellar water. Mix it until suds form.

2. Soak the Lashes

Place your synthetic lashes into the mixture. Let them soak for about 5 to 10 minutes. This loosens the mascara and dirt particles wrapped around the fibers.

3. Gently Scrub

Remove the lashes from the water. Use your fingertips or a clean spoolie brush to gently rub the lashes from the band to the tips. If they are heavily soiled, you can dip a cotton swab in micellar water and spot-clean specific areas.

4. Rinse and Dry

Rinse the lashes quickly under a gentle stream of cool water. Place them on a clean paper towel. Gently press another towel on top to absorb excess moisture.Reshape the band into a curve and let them air dry completely before storing.

How to Clean Lash Extensions at Home

You cannot take extensions off to clean them, so you must wash them carefully on your face. Regular cleaning prevents blepharitis and keeps your natural lashes healthy.

• Time: 5 minutes
• Difficulty: Moderate

What You’ll Need

• Lash extension foaming cleanser (lash shampoo)
• Fluffy cleansing brush
• Clean spoolie wand
• Water

1. Apply Lash Shampoo

Dispense a pump of oil-free lash shampoo onto your eyelid or a fluffy brush. Avoid using cotton rounds or swabs; the lint can snag on the extensions and rip them out.

2. Brush Through Lashes

Using the fluffy brush, gently massage the cleanser into your lash line and down the length of the lashes. Use a circular motion or vertical strokes. Do not rub side-to-side vigorously.

3. Rinse Thoroughly

Cup your hands with cool water and splash your eyes to rinse away the soap. Ensure no residue remains, as this can cause stinging.

4. Dry and Fluff

Gently pat your face dry with a lint-free towel. Do not rub your eyes. Let the lashes air dry for a few minutes, then use a clean mascara wand (spoolie) to brush them out. This separates the lashes and brings back the fluffiness.

How to Clean Mink Lashes

Mink lashes are made from natural hair. Soaking them in water will ruin their curl and shape, making them look frizzy. You must spot-clean them instead.

• Time: 10 minutes
• Difficulty: Moderate

What You’ll Need

• Micellar water or mild makeup remover
• Cotton swabs
• Tweezers

1. Hold the Lash Securely

Place the lash on your finger or a clean towel. Hold it firmly by the band.

2. Spot Clean With Swab

Dip a cotton swab into micellar water. Squeeze out the excess liquid; it should be damp, not dripping. Gently run the swab along the lashes from base to tip to remove mascara.

3. Clean the Band

Run the swab along the lash band to remove makeup residue. Use tweezers to pick off any remaining glue bits carefully.

4. Air Dry

Let them air dry in their original box to maintain the curve. Do not apply heat or blow dry them.

How to Clean Magnetic Lashes

Magnetic lashes require special care because the tiny magnets on the band are fragile. If you scratch them or get them oily, they won’t stick to the magnetic liner.

• Time: 5 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

What You’ll Need

• Oil-free makeup remover (mandatory)
• Cotton swabs
• Rubbing alcohol

1. Remove Liner Residue

Magnetic eyeliner sticks to the magnets on the lash band. Dip a cotton swab in oil-free makeup remover and gently rub the magnets until clean.

2. Avoid Metal Tools

Do not use metal tweezers to scrape the magnets. This can scratch them or de-magnetize them. Use your fingernail or a plastic tool to gently flake off dried liner if necessary.

3. Sanitize Magnets

Swipe the magnets quickly with a swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. This ensures a strong connection for your next wear.

4. Clean the Fibers

If you applied mascara over the lashes, gently wipe the fibers with micellar water. Lay them flat to dry, ensuring the magnets do not attach to each other while wet.

How to Store Fake Lashes Properly

Proper storage is half the battle. Never leave your lashes on the bathroom counter where they can collect dust or fall into the sink.

ALWAYS put your lashes back into the original half-moon tray they came in. This tray is designed to maintain the “C” curve of the band. If the band flattens out, the corners will lift the next time you wear them.

If you lost the original box, purchase a dedicated lash case. A popular option is the Lash Dime Holder, which is compact and protective. Keep the case in a drawer away from direct sunlight, which can fade the hair fibers.

Tips For Caring For Lashes

Follow these golden rules to get the most mileage out of your falsies:

• Skip the Mascara: Apply mascara to your natural lashes before putting on false lashes. Applying mascara directly to the falsies makes them dirty and harder to clean, shortening their lifespan.
• Avoid Oils: Oil breaks down the glue bond. Use oil-free makeup removers around your eyes if you plan to reuse the lashes.
• Be Gentle: Never rip lashes off your eyelid. This stretches the band and rips out your natural eyelashes. Dab some remover on the band to loosen it first.
• Sanitize: Even if they look clean, a quick swipe of alcohol on the band kills bacteria that causes styes and pink eye.

FAQs

Is Lash Shampoo Necessary?

For strip lashes, no. Dish soap or micellar water works perfectly fine. However, for semi-permanent lash extensions, a dedicated lash shampoo is highly recommended. It is formulated to be pH balanced and oil-free, ensuring the retention of your extensions isn’t compromised.

Should I Brush My Lash Extensions When Wet?

No, never brush wet extensions. Wet hair is heavier and weaker, so brushing them immediately after a shower can cause premature shedding or pull on your natural lash root. Pat them dry gently, wait a few minutes, and then fluff them with a spoolie.

How Do You Reshape False Lashes?

If your lashes have lost their curve, wrap them around a makeup brush handle or a pen. You can hold them in place with a clean hair tie and let them sit for a few hours. For a faster fix, wrap them around the cylindrical object and blast them with a hair dryer on warm (not hot) for 10 seconds.

Can I Use Olive Oil to Clean False Lashes?

We do not recommend using olive oil or coconut oil to clean strip lashes you intend to reuse. The oil coats the lash band and is very difficult to wash off completely. This oily residue will prevent the glue from sticking the next time you try to apply them.