Wednesday Wink - Washing Eyelash Extensions After Application?

Posted by Maryann Matykowski on June 07, 2017

2 Comments

Washing the lashes so soon? Yes... You heard right! I'm following up on my previous post, 8 Tips For Better Lash Retention, where I promised to let you in on the secret benefits of washing eyelashes at completion of the service. We have long thought that exposure to water too quickly after the application or refill process can wreak havoc on lash extensions. Well, this just in... Science says otherwise! After lengthy discussions with well-known and respected scientist and biochemist, Doug Schoon - who specializes in the beauty industry - new revelations have been uncovered... And, I am enlightened! Yes, wash the lashes after the application, or even wash after the refill process.

The Science

Why would we do this, you ask? Experts and salon professionals have been saying this is a no-no for years. But, Doug Schoon says that washing lashes after the service “will not”cause retention issues. Lash adhesive is formulated with cyanoacrylate, a monomer which functions to bond slowly and uniformly. These adhesives polymerize (cure) when exposed to moisture. It will start to set immediately, whether just from the humidity in the room or the use of a nanomister or nebulizer. To get the best results, make sure not to use too much adhesive, or you will risk "shock-curing" your lashes. And, wait until most of the curing process is done before you introduce the nebulizer or nanomister. For more detailed info, check out this article from the Eyelash Mag. According to Schoon, the client can have reduced sensitivities - or no sensitivities - if we wash away the chemical compounds on the lashes at completion of the application. The subject of washing lashes actually came up because certain audience members at the conference were asking about their clients' sensitivities to the lash glue. I know, I know it just seems odd to wash at the end. However, I trust the science behind this theory, and the man delivering the message!

The Trial Run

I have a client who is very reactive to the lash adhesive, and I tried this method on her. I did a full set of lashes, like I would normally do. I dried her lashes, brushed out her lashes, and proceeded to “wash” her lashes with my favorite lash wash, Wash and Wink - Eyelash Shampoo. I rinsed her lashes with water, and dried her lashes again. I sent her home, keeping my fingers crossed for a positive result. Wonder of wonders, she had only one reaction: Pure Joy! She can wear lashes once more. Will this work for everyone? Just wash and see! I'm sure you have lots of questions and thoughts on this intriguing new information. Leave your comments in the section below, and we will get back to you. And, please let me know how your trials go! :)