Can You Reuse Lash Extensions? 3 Reasons Not To

I get it.

Given the investment you’ve made in getting your lashes done, you’re probably looking for ways to save costs.

I wrote this article to share why reusing your extensions is not only a bad idea but also impossible, and what to do instead.

Lost and Gone

Unlike other types of false eyelashes (more on that in a second), individual lash extensions are adhered to your natural lashes by a professional lash tech.

We use a medical-grade adhesive.

You don’t remove them.

Instead, they fall off when the natural eyelash to which they are attached completes its growth cycle and sheds naturally.

You can expect to lose a few eyelashes per day – that’s totally normal.

So, how would you go about collecting them?

I can’t imagine you walking around, waiting for an eyelash to fall, and trying to pick it up from the ground.

That’s just impossible.

You won’t notice when an eyelash sheds.

Cleanliness Matters

If an extension falls, it will most likely have remnants of glue, some dirt or anything else that would be unhygienic.

So, what would you do?

I can’t imagine how you would try to clean them one-by-one.

First, it’s just not worth it given the cost of a lash tray.

Second, extensions are not designed to be manipulated this way.

You might break or damage them in the process.

Value Beyond Material

Do you know where the real value lies when you pay $100 for a lash set?

If you think it’s the actual extension fibers, you’re mistaken.

In fact, a single lash tray costs approximately $20, and I can do several clients with just one tray.

What you’re really paying for is time and expertise.

I’ve been lashing for over a decade now, and a full set of classic lashes takes me about 90 minutes.

Moreover, developing the skills to attach each single extension to your natural eyelashes takes a lot of effort and dedication.

That’s what you’re paying for.

Other types of false eyelashes

So far, we’ve only discussed individual lash extensions, which is what I specialize in.

However, there are other types of false eyelashes available on the market:

1. Strip lashes
2. Cluster or flare lashes
3. Magnetic Lashes
4. DIY Lashes

I’m not going to go into the fine details for each type in this article, since I’ve already written comprehensive guides on them (see below).

They all have their pros and cons.

Strip lashes (fake lashes) can be reused a few times if cared for properly. Some brands however can only be used once and then thrown away.

Cluster lashes are indeed reusable, but you should know that they are terribly damaging to your natural lashes.

Magnetic lashes can be reused. The number of days depends on the brand you’ll purchase.

Some DIY lashes can also be reused if properly cleaned.

But in my professional opinion, individual lash extensions are the safest and most natural-looking option.

And there’s no need to reuse them.

Final Thoughts

Remember, trying to collect fallen lash extensions is like trying to collect unicorns — It just doesn’t happen 😉

Instead, you should invest in a quality lash shampoo and practice pristine aftercare if you want to save costs and keep your extensions for as long as possible.

— Asako