Can you wear mascara after a lash lift?
TLDR: Yes, generally okay after a lash lift. However, it's not the mascara that can potentially cause damage, but how you remove it. Let's talk about it:
First, wait 24-48 hours after the initial service:
During the first 24-48 hours, your lashes will be a bit more susceptible to damage, even with gentle mascara removal.
However, after this waiting period, mascara is perfectly healthy for your lashes and complements the lash lift well. While the lash lift takes away the need for an eyelash curler, mascara can accentuate the length and add volume, depth, and drama.
Waterproof mascara is okay, but not recommended:
You can wear waterproof mascara, but I usually recommend using non-waterproof formulas when you can. Here’s why:
Waterproof formulas are harder to remove, and extra rubbing or scrubbing can cause breakage to your lashes (this is true even without a lash lift!).
The more effort it takes to remove your mascara, the more likely it is to cause friction, shedding, or breakage– especially after your lashes have been chemically processed.
If waterproof mascara is all you currently own or if you are planning a beach day or special event, your lashes will be okay as long as you’re removing it gently (more on that below)...
How to remove mascara after a lash lift:
The way you take mascara off has way more impact on lash health than the actual product itself. Here’s the method I recommend:
If you are wearing other eye makeup such as eyeliner or eyeshadow, I recommend double cleansing the eye area first, avoiding the lash line.
1) Soak a cotton pad in your go-to eye makeup remover (oil-based or micellar water both work)
2) Press the cotton pad over your closed eyelid and let it sit for 30 to 60 seconds — let the remover break down the makeup for you
3) Afterwards, wipe gently in an up-and-down motion, not side to side. Rubbing side to side can cause too much friction and risk lash breakage.
Other Recommendations:
If you want to remove the risk of damage and breakage from mascara altogether, consider this black coating essence. It is a nutrient-rich and hydrating serum that protects your lashes (similar to the regular coating essence) but with a black tint. This gives your lashes a darker, fuller, and more voluminous look if these are the reasons you're reaching for mascara in the first place.
Want even less maintenance? Add a lash tint to your lift for darker, bolder lashes without the need for daily application.
Final Thoughts:
Any mascara is perfectly safe for your eyelashes after a lash lift as long as you remove it gently. Let me know if you have any other questions ~