Are you considering getting eyelash extensions but are worried about what makeup you can wear? Or maybe you already have them and want to know the right makeup to use?
In this article, I’ll give you the lowdown on what types of makeup are best while wearing eyelash extensions.
Let’s dive in!
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Eyeliner
When looking for eyeliner to use with your eyelash extensions, you want to make sure that the eyeliner is not too “waxy” or too soft. This could lead to difficulty in removing your eye makeup.
Little chunks of eyeliner will get between your eyelashes which is difficult to see sometimes, and this could lead to potential damage to your natural lashes!
Plus, if you have a dirty lash line your extensions will un-bond from your natural lash due to the buildup…

I have a makeup background, so sometimes we use products that are long-lasting for shoots and events. It can be difficult to find something that is long-lasting and safe for your extensions.
However, I would recommend using a liquid liner such as the Kat Von D Tattoo Liner (brush tip) or she has an ink version that has a felt tip. This eyeliner glides on perfectly, lasts all day, and comes off nicely using a micellar water cleanser/remover.
You can use paper towels to remove your makeup, or the flocked applicator we have provided you.
Make sure you don’t use anything with lint like cotton pads or q-tips. When you visit Divine Lashes as you enter you will notice there is a makeup removal station, you can always take a flocked applicator from the acrylic organizer or ask your Lash Artist.
There is a cult favorite liquid liner that many people enjoy which is the Stila Stay All Day liquid liner.
Unfortunately, I don’t recommend this liner while wearing eyelash extensions. It’s waterproof which is very difficult to remove.
Since this liner has latex in it, it proves to be even more difficult to remove with your extensions because the latex sticks your extensions together.
This creates an effect of an elastic band between your eyelash extensions. This ruins the aesthetic of your extensions but will also cause retention problems…
The added friction of trying to remove this liner can also damage your natural lashes!
Check out my detailed guide on wearing eyeliner with lash extensions if you want to know more!
Eyeshadow

When it comes to eyeshadows, any kind of powder eyeshadows is totally fine along with eyelash extensions.
I usually let my clients know to avoid creamy eyeshadow and eyeshadow sticks as they may contain oil and are more stubborn to remove. Some shadows are powder but glide on like butter! Very creamy and rich in color.
So, what is a good option if you have extensions and love long-lasting pigment? The E.l.f creamy pot eye shadow is a great drugstore option that is rich in pigment and will last for the day.
If you like other easier applicator options, there are creamy pencils that work great too. Nudestix Magnetic Eye Color is so smooth to apply, you won’t need a brush, you can use your fingers to blend!
Great for on the go and will last you for the day too! These pigments are relatively easy to remove, and they are not waxy!
Check out my detailed guide on wearing eyeshadow with lash extensions if you want to know more!
Mascara

Clients can usually get their desired look with Eyelash Extensions, so there won’t be any need for mascara.
If you’re going through lash recovery, even if your extensions are not as full as desired- stay away from mascara! Your lashes will thank you later! (You can read about the damage mascara can cause, click here.)
If you do decide to wear mascara when it starts to get sparse towards your fourth week – you can use a water-based or a tubular mascara. Even mascaras that are “gentle” or “plant-based” are not safe for extensions.
It has to be water-based, and we sell them here at Divine Lashes Toronto. If you’re interested in water-based mascara for your natural lashes you can look out for Blinc mascara or Trish McEvoy.
However, wearing mascara with volume lashes is a big no-no regardless of the type of mascara you choose.
You can read my article on how to safely wear mascara and apply it with eyelash extensions here.
How to Do Eye Makeup With Lash Extensions?
If you have lash extensions, you can still do your makeup! Just follow these simple steps as a makeup routine example:
- Gently brush your eyelashes with a clean mascara wand to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply a thin layer of primer on your eyelids and under your eyes. This will help create a smooth canvas for your eyeshadow.
- Using a small brush, apply a light eyeshadow on the crease of your eyes. I generally recommend a matt shadow.
- Finally, apply mascara (very optional and only on classic lashes). Be sure to use a light hand and avoid getting any mascara on your lash extensions.
The Mexican Beauty made a very nice video where she shows her eye makeup routine while wearing volume lashes. Take a look!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a professional or just using lash extensions for special occasions, it’s important to use makeup that won’t damage this sensitive application.
It might be tricky to figure out which makeup products are ideal for your new false eyelashes, but the options below should help you make this important decision without much stress.
And once you try them out, don’t forget to let us know what your favorite is!
– Asako 🙂
Interested in learning more about lash extensions?
Explore my related guides & tutorials:
Can You Wear Eyeshadow With Lash Extensions?
Can You Wear Eyeliner With Eyelash Extensions?
Can You Wear Concealer With Eyelash Extensions?
Can You Wear Mascara With Eyelash Extensions?
Can You Wear Eye Cream With Lash Extensions?
Can You Curl Eyelash Extensions?
Would Bobbi Brown eyeshadow sticks be okay with lash extensions?
Hi Mary, thank you for your question! If the eyeshadow has a creamy consistency it might not be ideal with the eyelash extensions as it can be very stubborn to remove. We will be updating this post soon stay tuned!