You just got fresh lash extensions. You’re feeling yourself. You’ve avoided mascara, booked your infills, and still… they’re shedding like a scared possum.

Sound familiar?

If you’re wondering, “Why do my eyelash extensions fall out so fast?”, chances are you’re making one or two sneaky lash extension mistakes without even realising it. It happens. And we’re not here to judge. But we are here to help.

So, here it is: the ultimate no-BS list of what not to do after getting lash extensions, plus a few friendly reminders on how to make lash extensions last like a pro.

1. Touching Them. Constantly.

We know it’s tempting. They’re soft, they’re fluffy, and they feel kind of addictive, but hands off. Rubbing, picking, tugging or even gently fiddling with your lashes is one of the fastest ways to weaken the bond and cause premature shedding.

Tip: If you tend to touch your lashes without realising it, try keeping a clean spoolie nearby. A gentle brush will tame them without pulling or damaging them.

2. Skipping the Cleanse

Yes, you actually need to wash your lash extensions. Every day. Oil, dust, makeup, and skin build-up not only mess with the glue, they create the perfect breeding ground for irritation (or worse, lash mites… we said what we said).

Tip: use a lash-safe cleanser and soft brush. Not cleansing is one of the top lash extension mistakes we see. And it’s an easy fix.

3. Sleeping Face-Down

Sleeping on your stomach or squashing your face into a pillow = crushed lashes. If you’re waking up with one eye looking sparse, your sleep habits might be to blame.

Tip: Try a silk pillowcase (less friction) and get into the habit of sleeping on your back, if you can. Your lashes (and skin) will thank you.

4. Using Oil-Based Products

Oil and lash glue are not friends. Using oil-based eye makeup removers, creams, or serums around your lash line will break down the adhesive and make your extensions fall out faster.

Always check your skincare and makeup for sneaky oils. Micellar water? Read the label. That “gentle” cleanser? Double-check.

5. Applying Mascara

We get it - you want even more drama. But mascara on lash extensions is a hard no. It clumps, it’s hard to remove, and it damages the extensions. Plus, you don’t need it. That’s the whole point of getting extensions in the first place.

Tip: if you’re craving more definition, talk to us about switching styles or adding a lash tint instead.

6. Skipping Infills

You can't ghost your lash tech and expect your set to stay perfect. Natural lashes shed every 2 to 4 weeks, and your extensions go with them. That’s why infills are essential, not optional.

Tip: at our beauty salon in Scarborough, we recommend booking your lash infills every 2–3 weeks to keep everything even, full and fabulous.

7. Steaming It Up Too Soon

We love a steamy shower, but not right after a lash appointment. Water, heat, and steam can weaken the glue, especially in the first 24 hours after application. That means no hot yoga, saunas, or long hot showers just yet.

Tip: let the bond cure before you get steamy.

8. Using Cotton Pads or Wipes

Cotton fibres = the enemy. Those fluffy little bits can get caught in your lashes, pulling them out or tangling them up. Same goes for face washers, fluffy towels, or anything that sheds.

Tip: consider using lint-free wipes or a clean, damp cloth when removing makeup or washing your face, or let your hands and cleanser do all the hard work without the risk of a sneaky lash snag.

9. DIY Lash Removal - Just Don’t. Please.

Consider removing your extensions at home. Don’t. Please. Tugging at bonded lashes can take your natural ones out with them, leaving you with gaps and damage that takes months to recover from.

Tip: if you're ready for a break or need a full removal, come see us at RA'RA. We’ll remove them safely without compromising your natural lash health.

The Bottom Line: Lash Love Takes Effort

Lash extensions aren’t super high maintenance, but they do require a little care if you want them to last. Most of the time, when clients ask us how to make lash extensions last, it comes down to one thing: good habits.

Cleanse daily. Keep your hands off. Avoid oil and heat. Book those infills. And when in doubt, ask your lash tech.

Because great lashes don’t just happen. They’re made (and maintained) with love.

Book with RA’RA Studio

Whether you're a lash extension newbie or a regular lash queen, our team of lash specialists at RA’RA Studio are here to help you get the best results (and keep them).

Visit our eyelash extensions page to learn more about our natural-looking sets, hybrid styles, or custom lash designs. Book online at our Scarborough beauty salon, or follow us on socials for lash inspo, tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at what we do best.

Fresh lashes, no stress. Just clean, fluffy, long-lasting results.

9 Worst Mistakes You Must Avoid With Your Lash Extensions