Eyelash extensions are a great way to get the lush, long lashes you’ve always dreamed of. They last longer and look more natural than strip lashes, but they do require a little bit of TLC to help them last (speaking of, here are a few tips for making your eyelash extensions last). But can you remove lash extensions at home? It may be tempting to search out ways to remove them yourself , but here’s what you really need to know and why we think that’s a bad idea. 

Eyelash Extensions vs Strip Lashes 

To help you better understand the importance of leaving the removal of eyelash extensions to the professionals, let’s start with understanding the difference between strip lashes, which can be removed at home, and eyelash extensions.

Strip lashes (also known as false lashes) are lashes attached to a fabric band, which is adhered to the skin just above your lash line in one piece. Unlike lash extensions, they are removable and can be reapplied and worn numerous times. You can easily find them at nearby drug stores and they don’t need to be applied or removed by a lash professional.   

Lash extensions are when individual lashes are adhered to your lashes using a special glue and are long-lasting. Most brands need to be filled every 2-3 weeks, but NovaLash allows you to go up to 8 weeks between appointments. Because of the special adhesive used, they must be applied and removed by a lash professional to avoid damaging your natural lashes. 

Since eyelash extensions are more of a commitment, we’ve put together questions to ask before getting extensions and what to expect when getting lash extensions.  

Why You Shouldn’t Remove Your Eyelash Extensions At Home

Your eyelash extensions should last until the natural lash it is attached to falls out, taking the extension with it. But there may be times you want to remove the extensions sooner. While the internet is full of blog posts telling you how to remove eyelash extensions at home, this is one time to avoid the DIY route, as tempting as it may be. 

The skin around your eyes is sensitive and your natural eyelashes delicate. If you attempt to remove your lash extension at home, you risk damage to your eyes, natural lashes, and skin. Also, it’s easy to spread bacteria into the eye area. All of that can be avoided when left to the professionals. 

Lash artists are professionally trained and know exactly how to use the professional adhesive dissolver without damaging the natural lashes or harming the skin around your eyes. Lash artists are also skilled in a variety of techniques for lash extension removal. NovaLash professionals are committed to health and safety and maintaining the health of your eyes and natural lashes. Here are three reasons why you should avoid removing your lash extensions at home:

1. You Risk Damaging Your Natural Lashes

When you attempt to remove your eyelash extensions at home, you risk damaging your natural lashes. And once they’re damaged, they could take several months to grow back to their original thickness or length. Damage can happen when you pull or rub the extensions, detaching the lash extension and breaking the natural lash as well.  

2. Natural Oils Are Often Not Strong Enough

Unlike most adhesives, NovaLash’s adhesives are immediately oil-proof, so your lash extensions won’t break down due to repeated exposure to oils. Repeatedly scrubbing your eyes with oil-based products in an attempt to remove your lash extensions will only increase the risk of pulling out your natural lashes.   

3. There’s A Potential For Eye Infection

Because it’s easy to spread bacteria to your eyes, it’s important to keep your eyes closed during the process of removing lash extensions. But, chances are, you won’t be able to apply products and keep your eyes closed. When you let your lash artist do the work, they can help ensure that the tools used are sterilized and that no products get into your eyes, avoiding the possibility of infections. 

The Bottom Line

When it comes to eyelash extensions, it’s always important to do your own research as well as talk with a lash professional. Before you commit to lash extensions, ask the right questions and understand the types of lash extensions you’re asking about. Being prepared and working with the right lash artist will ensure that you get the lashes you love and won’t want to remove. It’s easy to find a NovaLash-trained lash extension artist near you to set up your appointment!