A lot of us can’t resist the urge to show off our new pair of lash extensions the moment we get them done! However, we like to show them off in their full glory, which often means throwing on a bit of foundation, blush, and a lip tint.

But can heavy makeup (especially foundation & powders) damage your lashes?

Keep on reading as we answer some of your most-asked questions regarding foundations & eyelash extensions. I will also recommend the best go-to foundation when it comes to wearing lash extensions.

You will also learn how to remove your foundation, which is a lot more important than the initial application process if you wish to avoid damaging your new pair of lashes while also prolonging their lifespan!

Let’s get started!

Is It Okay To Wear Foundation With Eyelash Extensions?

Your approach, application, and chosen product will play a significant role in preserving your lash extensions for as long as possible.

If I had to boil down the science of wearing foundation with lash extensions, it would be in these 4 takeaways:

1. Applying foundation with lash extensions is the easy part. Knowing how to remove your makeup at the end of the day without damaging your lashes is crucial.
2. Do not use runny or too-liquidy foundation types since they might melt and drip into your lashes in a heartbeat.
3. Do wait for the curing period of your eyelash extensions to be complete before applying foundation. It takes around 4 hours for the lash adhesive to completely cure. This rule also applies to moisturizers, under-eye concealer, mascara, and eyeshadow.
4. Take your time! You should have enough time and patience, you don’t want to rush it since it is a delicate process.

How To Apply Foundation With Eyelash Extensions

So, now you’re ready for the application process. I recommend having 5-10 minutes just so that you’re confident and stress-free when it comes to your makeup routine or application. Here’s how to do it in just 6 simple steps!

Step 1: Apply your makeup only after you’ve cleansed your face & have applied your skincare products. Let them sink into the skin before you move on to your complexion.

Step 2: Use a makeup primer for your face, but also for your eyes if you plan on wearing eyeshadow. Dab the primer in with your fingertips while making light pressure and gently sweeping the product into your pores.

Step 3: Use your favorite oil-free foundation (see my suggestions later). The best choice is something that is lightweight with medium-coverage, semi-matte, and comfortable while being compatible with your skin type and texture.

Apply the product with your favorite complexion brush or a sponge using tapping or blending motions.

Step 4: Be careful & gentle around your eyelid area since it can get in contact with your lash extensions. You could use a synthetic brush while keeping your head tilted backward, and the brush pointing downwards. This way, you won’t mess up your lashes.

If you do end up catching some product or foundation on top of your lash extensions, do not panic!

Simply use a cut paper tower and a bit of an oil-free makeup remover on top to get the product off.

Step 5: Use a mini-sized beauty blender underneath your eyes, and try not to blink while dabbing in your foundation or concealer. If you end up blinking excessively or blending chaotically you are risking getting the foundation stuck between your upper and lower lashes.

Step 6: Once you are satisfied with your application, it is time to set your foundation with loose or pressed powder.

Use a small round fluffy brush and dab its bristles into the product. Start tapping underneath your eyes to set your foundation and prevent it from creasing throughout the day. Use a smaller brush to do the same move & step with your eyelids.

If you do end up catching some powder fallout simply use a fan or a piece of paper to blow away and sweep off the residue.

What Is The Best Foundation For Eyelash Extensions?

Foundation is a cosmetic product that does exactly what it’s named after- create a foundation or base for the makeup on your face.

If you go back to basics, there are 8 main types of foundations for makeup nowadays. They are- liquid, cream, tinted moisturizer, stick, BB Cream, CC Cream, mineral powder, and powder.^[1]

Amongst these, you should always use a powder-based foundation if you wear lash extensions. As a pro tip, it’s best to keep off glitter foundations when wearing extensions as they’re hard as nails when it comes to removal.

If you are not sure where to start, here are my top 3 suggestions for lash extensions.

#1 Neutrogena

#2 Revlon

#3 Clinique

How To Remove Foundation With Eyelash Extensions

Remember how I said that properly removing foundation is the most important skill to have if you want to preserve your lash extensions?

After wearing makeup for several hours a day, most women look forward to its removal process and their night-time routine.

Here is my complete night-time routine to remove makeup and foundation when wearing eyelash extensions.

Step 1: Removing Eye Makeup

The best way to remove your eye makeup when wearing eyelash extensions is using a paper towel or lint-free cotton pads. Avoid Q-tips and cotton balls around the eyes at all costs.

Lint-free cotton pads are an essential tool for removing makeup when wearing eyelash extensions. Lint-free pads will not leave any traces of cotton on your lashes which could cause damage by tugging or pulling on your extensions.

Put a generous amount of oil-free makeup remover on the paper tower or lint-free cotton pad.

Then, wrap your lashes and hold for a few seconds. Do not rub! Just wrap and wait for a little.

Do not rub the cotton pad or move it up & down since your makeup remover will sink in all the product on its own. By rubbing the eyelids aggressively you are damaging your lashes.

Finally, use the leftover makeup remover to clean the eye area by wiping gently. Make sure not to touch your lashes during this process.

Step 2: Wash Your Face and Remove Foundation

Use a mild oil-free cleanser or micellar water to wash your face. Apply the cleanser in circular motions to truly get into each pore.

Make sure not to touch or rub against your lashes.

Step 3: Rinse Your Face

Make a cup with your hands to collect water and rinse your face well. Avoid showers with a strong jet directly on your lashes.

Quick tip: You can read our guide on how to shower with eyelash extensions here!

Step 4: Cleanse Your Lashes

Cleansing your lashes is a crucial step of your nighttime routine.

Pump out a small amount of lash shampoo in your hand or on a clean surface.

Lash shampoo is designed to clean off any oil residue from your lashes. Your should use the lash shampoo every day.

Using a soft brush, apply the lash shampoo to your lashes. Let the foam coat your lashes to the base of the lash line.

A clean lash line promotes healthy lash growth. A very oily and dirty lash line can lead to an increase in lash mites.

Step 5: Dry Your Lashes

It is important to have your lash extensions completely dry before your go to bed.

The best method is using a hair dryer in a low and cool setting. You can blow dry your lashes gently with these settings.

5 Quick Tips When Wearing Foundation With Lash Extensions

Before you get started with your makeup regimen with foundation and extensions, take a look at the below list of tips to avoid any mistakes and damage along the way.

Tip #1: Find The Right Brush

First off, a good blending brush that works precisely is a must for lash extension wearers who want to use foundation.

I recommend beauty blenders or handy kabuki brushes because they work well with powder types foundations.^[2]

Picking a good brush that’s precise and fine is an absolute must for keeping your extensions safe while applying the foundation around the eye as it might seep through otherwise.

They also take the least surface area during application and that’s why there’s no way you’ll ever apply the foundation over your lash extensions.

Tip #2: Get a Good Magnifying Mirror

The second most important thing is a mirror that’s comfortable for you to work precisely around the lash area while blending the foundation.

A good mirror will not only help you keep your lash extensions safe, but enhance your contouring, highlighting, and other makeup skills.

In any case, a fine mirror is critical for the precise application of foundation when wearing lash extensions.

Tip #3: Clean Up As You Go

You must use a lint-free applicator and use it to remove smudges from around your eyes while working so that your extensions and natural lashes remain safe during the process.

A tight-bristled applicator is good for removing any type of dust or lumps before or after applying the foundation.

Tip #4: Avoid Oil-Based Products

Eyelash extensions are sensitive to oil, as previously mentioned. This is because oil can cause the glue in your extensions to break down, which results in a shorter lifespan of your lashes. This also applies to oil-based foundations that are too sticky, liquid, or runny.

Tip #5: Brush Your Lashes

Every now and then, some parts of our makeup (including foundation) can get caught in our lashes.

This is why it is crucial to brush them out with a spoolie, or a brand-new & clear mascara wand. You will get rid of any makeup residue and have clean lashes to show off!

References

1. Mandy Zee (2021). Types of Makeup Foundations. Retrieved from https://www.byrdie.com/types-of-makeup-foundations (Accessed on 19 September 2021)
2. Victoria Jowett (2021).Best Foundation Brush 2021 – Are You Using The Right One? Retrieved from https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/reviews/g4553/best-foundation-brush-guide/ (Accessed on 19 September 2021)