Maintaining strip lashes helps extend their life and keeps your eyes looking fresh. Proper cleaning removes oils, makeup residue, and debris that can trap bacteria. This guide outlines a simple, safe process using common tools designed for lash care.
With the right routine, strip lashes stay flexible, retain their curl, and resist shedding. The steps below are suitable for most synthetic and lightweight faux-mink lashes, and they emphasize gentle handling to protect lash bands and lashes.
Quick Answer
Best practice: rinse lashes or brush them with a soft silicone brush to remove buildup, then air-dry flat. Clean lashes regularly after wear to preserve shape and adhesion for future use.
What You’ll Need
- Silicone eyelash cleansing brush for strip lashes or similar gentle brush
- Mini lash cleaning wand silicone bristles for precise cleaning
- Eyelash strip lash cleaning brush tool to reach the lash line
- Lash cleansing brush set for false eyelashes for various tasks
- Eyelash spoolie wand silicone brush for cleaning to comb and set lashes
Before You Start
Prepare a clean workstation and wash hands before handling lashes. Work over a soft surface to avoid dropping lashes. Time estimate: 5–10 minutes per cleaning session. Important: do not soak the lash band for long periods, as adhesives can degrade. Avoid excessive rubbing the lash band, which may cause the band to deform.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Strip Lashes
- Gently remove makeup from the lash band with a damp cotton pad or a dedicated lash brush without pulling on the band.
- Hold the lash by the band, not the crisscrossed fibers, to minimize stress on the lash hair.
- Dip a silicone eyelash cleansing brush for strip lashes into a small amount of clean, lukewarm water or a mild lash-safe cleanser.
- Lightly brush along the lash band from inner to outer corner to loosen oil and residue.
- Carefully clean the lash crown and the tips of each lash using the mini lash cleaning wand silicone bristles for precision.
- Rinse the lashes under a gentle stream of lukewarm water, making sure no soapy residue remains on the band.
- Gently squeeze excess water from the lashes and lay them on a clean, dry surface or a microfiber cloth to air-dry flat.
- Once dry, use the eyelash spoolie wand silicone brush for cleaning to comb through and restore curl and alignment.
- If needed, reinstall adhesive and test fit before wearing again. Do not force lashes onto the eye; allow the band to bend naturally into shape.
- Store lashes in a protective case to maintain shape and prevent dust buildup.
- Repeat after each use for best results and longevity.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lash hairs shed after cleaning | Overhandling or vigorous scrubbing | Use gentler strokes with the silicone brush | Handle by the band; avoid pulling on the lash hairs |
| Lash band becomes misshapen | Excess moisture or improper drying | Lay flat on a clean surface; avoid bending while wet | Dry completely before storing |
| Residual makeup on lashes | Soap residue or oil buildup | Rinse thoroughly; use a mild lash cleanser | Clean after each wear to prevent buildup |
| Lashes won’t hold adhesive well | Residue on band or damaged band | Ensure band is fully clean and intact | Inspect lashes before reuse; replace if compromised |
Common Mistakes
- Over-soaking lashes or soaking the band for too long.
- Using harsh cleansers or rubbing the lash hairs aggressively.
- Not drying the lashes completely before storage.
- Storing lashes in a bent or deformed state.
- Cleaning only the visible surface while neglecting the inner corners.
Avoid these missteps to maintain lash integrity and adhesive readiness for future wear.
Tips For Best Results
- Clean lashes after each use to prevent oil buildup that can affect adhesion.
- Let lashes air dry on a flat surface rather than using towels that can snag fibers.
- Use the spoolie to re-round lashes before wearing to restore natural shape.
- Store in a protective case to preserve curvature and prevent dust accumulation.
- Rotate sets when possible to extend the life of each lash strip.
Call A Professional
Seek professional help if lashes show signs of significant damage, such as stretched bands, persistent curling issues, or crusted buildup that cannot be cleared with gentle cleaning. If you experience irritation or an allergic reaction to lash adhesives or cleansers, consult a dermatologist or licensed esthetician.
FAQ
Can I use regular eyeshadow remover to clean strip lashes?
It’s best to use a lash-safe cleanser or mild soap and water to avoid weakening the adhesive band.
How often should I clean strip lashes?
Clean after each wear to extend lifespan and maintain hygiene.
Is it normal for lashes to lose curl after cleaning?
A gentle reset with a spoolie can help restore curl; avoid excessive heat or pressure.
Can I reuse the same lash strip multiple times?
Yes, with proper cleaning and careful storage, most lashes can be reused several times.
Buying Guide
When choosing lash-care tools, consider how often you wear strip lashes and your comfort level with cleaning routines. Look for gentle, silicone-based brushes that won’t snag fibers. Consider sets that include a spoolie wand and multiple brush types for targeted cleaning. A compact, dedicated lash-cleaning kit is convenient for at-home routines or travel. Pay attention to material quality and customer reviews, especially for silicone bristles that are smooth and durable. If you wear lash extensions or have sensitive eyes, select hypoallergenic cleansers specifically formulated for contact lenses or sensitive skin.