We’ve all been there. Whether it’s a sentimental movie, a stressful day, or just one of those “need to let it out” moments, crying is a natural part of life. But for those of us who swear by our lash extensions, a heavy sob session can bring on a second wave of panic: “Are my lashes going to fall off?!”
The short answer is: No, crying won’t ruin your lashes immediately, but the salt and moisture in tears can weaken the bond of the lash adhesive if left sitting.
At Professional Eyelash Extensions by Sandy, we want you to feel confident wearing your lashes through all of life’s highs and lows. Here is everything you need to know about “crying etiquette” for lash extensions and how to handle the aftercare.
Why Are Tears Tough on Lashes?
It isn’t just the water; it’s what is in the water. Tears contain salt, oils, and enzymes. When these sit on your lash line, the salt can crystallize and the oils can begin to break down the medical-grade adhesive used to attach your extensions. Additionally, we often instinctively rub our eyes when we cry—which is the ultimate “no-no” for lash longevity.
The “During-the-Cry” Strategy
If you feel the waterworks starting, try these tips to minimize the impact:
- Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a lint-free tissue to gently blot the tears from the inner and outer corners of your eyes. Avoid wiping across the lash line.
- Keep Your Hands Away: Friction is the enemy. Rubbing your eyes while they are wet is the fastest way to see your extensions on your tissue instead of your lids.
The Post-Cry Rescue Routine
Once the clouds have cleared, follow these steps to ensure your lashes stay flawless:
1. Rinse Immediately
As soon as you’re done crying, rinse your lashes with cool, clean water. This flushes away the salt and acidity from your tears before they can dry and cause irritation or weaken the bond.
2. Use Your Lash Cleanser
If it was a heavy cry, a quick rinse might not be enough. Use your specialized lash foam cleanser to gently deep-clean the lash line. This ensures no salt residue is left behind to itch or flake.
3. Pat Dry Gently
Use a lint-free cloth or a microfiber towel to pat (never rub!) your eyes dry. You can also use a hand fan or a blow dryer on the coolest, lowest setting to air-dry them.
4. The Spoolie Brush-Up
Once your lashes are dry, they might look a little clumped together. Use your clean spoolie brush to gently brush them back into their fluffy, organized fans.
When to Call Sandy
If you find that a particularly rough week has caused a few more gaps than usual, don’t stress! It happens to the best of us. Simply book a quick fill-in session.
At Professional Eyelash Extensions by Sandy, we use premium-quality, hypoallergenic materials designed to withstand the Arizona heat and the occasional tear. We’re here to make sure that no matter what life throws at you, your lashes remain your best accessory.
Ready for a refresh? Book your appointment in Glendale today!