As a lash artist, I know my clients love other beauty treatments.

It’s my duty to know how they can protect their extensions during these treatments.

So in this article, I’ll cover how it’s done for all forms of tanning (spray tans, tanning beds, self-tanners, natural sun, etc.).

Spray Tans

You can absolutely get a spray tan with lash extensions without negatively affecting their retention.

There are two simple rules to follow.

First, you always need to wait 4 hours after your lash appointment before getting your spray tan.

Why?

The adhesive used to attach the extensions to your natural lashes is still in its curing phase during those first few hours.

For a strong bond to form, you need to avoid exposing your lashes to any type of moisture.

This includes sweat, steam, water (obviously), and yes, even spray tan solution.

Second, I always recommend wearing a pair of goggles when you’re getting sprayed.

That way, you’ll avoid any solution accidentally getting on your lashes.

So, what if some does?

Most of these solutions contain oils, which are notorious for weakening the lash adhesive.

So, after your tan, use a lash shampoo to gently remove any tanning solution residue from your lash line.

You might have to do it more than once.

One last thing…

In my opinion, I find it always best to go for a spray tan first and then get eyelash extensions the next day.

That way, you will be able to completely clean the tanning solution and come to your lash appointment with a clean lash line.

Some tanning salons now only require you to wait a few hours before washing off the solution.

This depends on the products they use.

Sunbeds

Now, when it comes to sunbeds, things are a bit different.

The biggest concern with getting a tan while wearing lash extensions is that UV rays and excessive heat can break down the adhesive and cause them to fall out prematurely.

With spray tans, you can simply avoid exposing your lashes to moisture — there are no UV rays or heat involved.

Okay, so you need to protect your extensions when using a tanning bed.

There are 3 simple things you can do.

First, you need to wear goggles that block out UV light.

Make sure they are deep enough so that you can blink without your extensions rubbing against the goggles.

Most tanning salons will be able to provide you with these goggles.

Second, you can lower the intensity of your sessions.

This will reduce the overall heat you’ll be exposed to inside the bed.

Lastly, go for shorter sessions.

You don’t have to cook in there for hours.

Just a few minutes is enough to maintain your tan, and it’ll be much better for your extensions.

But wait.

What if you want to just get a tan with the good old natural sun?

Well, the exact same principles apply here.

But maybe instead of black goggles, you want to invest in a pair of polarized sunglasses.

This way, you can still protect your lashes from UV light while also looking stylish on the beach.

And you won’t bump into things.😊

Self-Tanner

These are products you’ll apply on your skin at home.

They give you an artificial tan for a few days thanks to the active ingredient, dihydroxyacetone (DHA).

They also contain oils most of the time.

Regardless, you’re in full control of the application here.

They’re perfectly fine to use, as long as you avoid the eye area when you apply them.

If you accidentally get some on your extensions, gently cleanse your lashes to remove any left-over.

Tanning Tale: Lashes Survive!

I hope you found this article helpful.

So now, go ahead and enjoy a nice tanning session without fearing for your extensions.

If you’re not sure about something, please let me know in the comments below.

I’m happy to help.

– Asako

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