Can You Put Mascara on Eyelash Extensions?

Published September 27, 2022
Since ancient times, dark thick eyelashes have been a beauty standard. From the Egyptians painting their eyes with kohl to Instagram influencers flexing their thousand-dollar lashes, humans have always had a fascination for eyelashes.
It’s no wonder then that eyelash extensions have seen a surge in popularity lately. But sometimes, an eyelash extension is not enough. There are times when we just need darker and more emphasized eyelashes. That’s when the thought of applying mascara on your lash extensions probably crossed your mind.
But can you put mascara on eyelash extensions?
Yes, but there are certain nuances to applying mascara of lash extensions compared with applying it on natural eyelashes.
Stay tuned to know which types of mascaras are ideal for eyelash extensions, which mascaras to avoid, how to apply mascara to your eyelash extensions properly, and anything else mascara-related!
Can You Wear Mascara with Lash Extensions?
Yes, you can wear mascara with lash extensions. But it will only work if you have classic extensions. Applying mascara on volume or hybrid extensions may cause it to clump or fall out prematurely.
You see, classic extensions are applied on a 1:1 ratio. Meaning, one extension is applied per natural eyelash hair. That’s why applying mascara won’t cause much strain on your lashes.
Meanwhile, in volume and hybrid lash extensions, multiple lash extension fibers are applied per natural eyelash hair. The number varies but in volume extensions, each natural lash hair is affixed with a “fan” of extensions. While hybrid eyelash extensions are essentially a combination of classic and volume lash extensions.
So if you apply mascara to volume or hybrid extensions, it will only clump up the extensions and the natural hair. Not to mention that it will add more weight to your lashes causing discomfort and putting more pressure on them. As a result, your extensions – and natural eyelash hair – may fall off.
Why You Should Wear Mascara With Eyelash Extensions
Wearing your lash extensions with a touch of mascara will undoubtedly help define your lashes. But should that be your only reason for using mascara? Here is a list of other reasons why you should use mascara with your lash extensions right away:
- If mascara accentuates your natural lashes so greatly, it will undoubtedly do more for your lovely lash extensions.
- If you use contrasting-colored mascara, it will change the color of your extensions.
- If your lash extensions are going thin and you need a refill, one or two coats of mascara can help make them look thicker.
- It will give you a solid and vibrant appearance.
- Peptides, stem cell complexes, Vitamin E, biotin, and keratin are some of the compounds included in certain mascaras that aid in the growth and health of your natural hair.
- You deserve to look your best at all times. It’s part of self-care.

Why Use Oil-Free Mascara For Lash Extensions
Using oil-based or waterproof mascara on your falsies is a no-no since the oils in it can tear down the adhesive that holds your lash extensions in place, resulting in one of two potential outcomes:
- The glue on some of your flares loosens and re-dries, causing a few of your lashes to stick together. This will make the lashes appear lumpy and unnatural.
- The oils completely break down the adhesive, resulting in the loss of your eyelash extensions.
Protecting the adhesive between your extensions and the lash line is the most crucial aspect of making your falsies last longer. So instead of an oil-based mascara, use one with a water-based formula. You should also avoid mascaras that include glycol and carbonate since these ingredients may interfere with the glue on your extensions.
Which Mascaras To Avoid
Aside from oil-based mascaras, you should also avoid ones that have glycol and carbonate since these ingredients may interfere with the glue on your extensions. With that, here are the types of mascaras to avoid:
Waterproof Mascara
Waterproof mascaras can make your false lashes brittle and has ingredients that can harm your natural lashes too. Besides, removing a waterproof mascara involves tugging or pulling and using an oil-based makeup remover. All of which can damage your lash extensions.
Also, rubbing essential oils on your eyes may remove the mascara. However, it will cause the lash adhesive to dissolve, thus, ruining your falsies. It may even cause most of your natural eyelashes to fall off.
Tube Mascara
Unlike ordinary mascaras, tubing mascaras are produced with polymers that wrap around each lash, creating small tubes. They might look great on your natural lashes. But on your false lashes, they can stick like tar. As such, removing them can cause significant damage to your falsies.
Fiber Mascara
The purpose of fiber mascaras is to copy the appearance of extensions by adding microscopic fibers to extend your natural lashes. It typically contains silk, rayon, and nylon. All of which are dry fibers that can intertwine with your lash extensions. This makes them very difficult to remove and doing so may cause your extensions to fall off.
Choosing The Right Mascara Brush
Choosing the right mascara brush for the desired appearance of your lashes is also critical. There are several varieties of mascara brushes, and each type will give your lashes an entirely different dramatic impression.
There are at least three basic brushes recommended to use:
- Classic mascara brush – This brush’s thick bristles will make your lashes appear more voluminous.
- Tapered Comb mascara brush – This wand’s comb-like bristles will assist in separating the lashes. This style of brush works well for comprehensive coverage but not so well for volume.
- Curved Comb mascara brush – The brush replicates the natural curl of the lashes, while the comb prevents clumps from forming.
How to Put Mascara On Lash Extensions
Though its safe to put mascara on your classic lash extensions, improper application techniques, can still clump your lashes and smear the mascara. To avoid such, here is a complete step-by-step guide to putting mascara on eyelash extensions like a pro:
The two essential materials you will need:
- Mascara
- Eyelash curler
Step 1: Begin by cleaning your lashes and eyes
When you apply the mascara, make sure your eyes are clean to avoid clumping and discomfort. It’s advisable to start with clean eyes.
Step 2: Dramatize your lashes look by curling them
Hold the lash curler at the root of your eyelashes while looking straight. Now lower your head and softly pinch your eyelashes with your lash curler. As you work your way up to the tip of your lashes, repeat until you achieve your desired results.
Step 3: Start from the bottom of your lashes
Ensure the excess mascara from your applicator is removed first by wiping it onto the mascara tube. While gazing directly in the mirror, apply the applicator to the base of your lashes. Slowly glide the brush upwards to coat your eyelashes from the base to the tip until you achieve your preferred mascara thickness.
Step 4: Enhance the corner side of your lashes
To avoid smearing or spreading mascara, simply use the applicator tip to cover the corner eyelashes. From the base to the tip, you can equally coat them. This will also make your lashes seem more defined since the lashes in the corners of your eyes will give you a wing-tipped impression.
Step 5: Use a clean spoolie brush to eliminate excess mascara
To prevent mascara clumping, gently brush your lashes from the base upwards with your spoolie. Do it before the first coat of mascara has completely dried. Otherwise, your lashes will appear lumpy and brittle.
Step 6: Apply your second coat of mascara
Allow your initial application to dry thoroughly before proceeding to the next step. Then repeat the process with a second coat of mascara.
The Final Touch
Wipe away any extra mascara that may have touched your skin during application. Check to see whether you’re entirely pleased with your lash thickness, and there you have it! You’re ready to go.
Extra Guide: Applying Mascara On Lower Lashes
Most people only apply mascara to the upper lash line. But what about your bottom lashes? They, too, deserve to be seen and cared for! Lower lashes are often shorter and more refined, making it harder to apply mascara without smudging the makeup. So we came up with a few quick and easy ways to get that ideal bottom lash appearance.
Step 1: Use a dry cloth or paper towel
To preserve the under-eye region, place a dry towel beneath your lower lashes. Tilt your head down and look towards the mirror.
Step 2: Begin from the middle
Wipe away any excess mascara and apply it to the center of your bottom lashes.
Step 3: Brush the inner lashes
Holding the brush vertically, coat each lash in the inner and outer corners of your eyes using only the tip.
Summing It Up
As they say, the eyes are the windows to the soul. And since your eyelashes highlight your eyes, it’s only fair to give it the best care possible. With the help of this guide, may you successfully apply mascara to your lash extensions without damaging them.
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About The Author
Judy Ponio is the lead writer for the Salon Suites of Palm Beach website and blog. Her many years of blogging experience and passions for beauty trends helps her create content that has helped millions of people worldwide.