Eyelash extensions are a beauty treatment that many women love for the way they make their eyes look. It can be a great way to add length and volume to natural lashes, and they can last for several weeks with proper care. Women find it’s worthy of investing and getting professional eyelash extensions because it saves time in the morning and makes them look more awake.

But many women are wondering if they can still use their regular eye drops while wearing eyelash extensions. It’s important to know the answer because you don’t want to damage your extensions or cause them to fall out prematurely.

So, can eye drops be used with eyelash extensions?

Here, we will share everything about eye drops and eyelash extensions, ingredients to avoid, and how to use eye drops with extensions properly.

Safe vs. Unsafe Eye Drop Ingredients for Extensions

When it comes to ingredients in eye drops, not all of them are safe for use with eyelash extensions. In fact, there are a few ingredients that you should avoid if you want to keep your extensions in good condition.

Safe Ingredients in eye drops for eyelash extensions

  • Carboxymethylcellulose
  • Antihistamines
  • Steroids
  • Povidone

Unsafe Ingredients in eye drops for eyelash extensions

  • Glycols like Polyethylene glycol and Propylene glycol
  • Glycerin 
  • Oils like mineral oil and soybean oil
  • Natural phospholipids
  • Saline
  • Polyvinyl alcohol

Why Are Specific Eye Drops Bad For Eyelash Extensions?

Eye drops are a go-to solution for many with myriad eye problems. But, if you are wearing eyelash extensions, there are a few ingredients in eye drops that you’ll want to avoid.

The glycols, polyethylene glycol, and propylene glycol can cause the glue that binds your extensions to your natural lashes to break down. This can result in extensions falling out prematurely or becoming loose.

Like mineral oil and soybean oil, oils can also weaken the adhesive and cause extensions to fall out. Natural phospholipids can have a similar effect.

Lastly, saline can be drying to the eyes and cause the lashes to become brittle and break. It’s a big no-no for extensions.

You should read the ingredients of your eyedrops before using them if you are wearing extensions to be sure that they are safe.

When Should You Use Eye Drops After Getting Eyelash Extensions?

The best time to use eye drops after getting eyelash extensions is to wait for at least 24 hours. It will give the adhesive time to set and avoid any damage to the extensions. Also, in this way, the chemical content of the eye drop wouldn’t interact with that of the extension adhesive.

You should not use eye drops before getting extensions treatment because they moisten and weaken the lash. Eventually, this will cause the glue to adhere the extension to the natural lash and lead to premature falling out of extensions.

So instead of applying the drops before the treatment, consult your lash technician about the best time to use them.

Step-By-Step Application of Eye Drops With Eyelash Extension

If you are using eye drops with lash extensions, it’s essential to do so in a way that won’t damage the extensions or your eyes. You can usually apply it any way you want, but rules change once you have your extensions on.

If you are not careful, it can make your extensions lose or fall out and also affect their bonding agent. Here is a step by step guide on how to use eye drops with extensions safely:

Step One: Before Application

Before you apply the drops, clean your eyelashes and eyelids with a gentle makeup remover. This will remove any oils or debris that may be on your lashes and prevent them from being damaged by the eyedrops. Wash your hands thoroughly as well.

Now, lay down and put your head back to find a comfortable position. This will help keep your eyes open and make it easier to apply the drops and avoid any spills.

Step Two: Application

The right way to apply eye drops with extensions is to place one drop at the inner corner of your eye and then blink. Do not tilt your head back or put any pressure on your eyelids, as this can cause the drops to spill out.

Be cautious not to apply around the lash extension as it will cause the extension to fall out, and also, contact with the skin may cause irritation. The same goes with the dropper; it is necessary to avoid touching the lashes with the dropper to prevent contamination.

In addition to that, do not close your eyes for too long after application to prevent the extension from sticking to the eyes.

Step Three: After the Application

You need to do a few things after applying the eyedrops with extensions.

  • Do not put more than one drop in each eye.
  • If you want to apply additional eye drops, wait for at least five minutes after using the previous drops to make sure that they are fully absorbed.
  • If you’re using prescription drops, wait for at least 30 minutes after using the over-the-counter eye drops before applying the prescription drops.
  • Rubbing your eyes may dislodge the extensions or irritate your eyes.
  • Dab off any excess eye drops with a tissue. It will help prevent them from seeping into your eyes and irritating them.

If you experience any discomfort or itching after applying the drops, stop using and consult your lash technician. Do not use homemade solutions or herbal remedies, as they can be harmful to your eyes.

Read More: Can you wear contact lenses with eyelash extensions?

In Conclusion

Eye disorders throw your life off balance. The intense itching, burning, and discharge may seem never-ending. Many clients with sensitive eyes use eye drops after the professional eyelash extension treatment to prevent any discomfort. But you need to be careful; otherwise, the drops might work against you and the extensions.

As a word of advice, the eye is the most sensitive organ, so consult your lash technician about the best time to use eye drops with extensions and follow their instructions for the safest and most effective application. Seek medical care if the condition worsens.