Eyelashes may seem like a trivial feature but thick, fluttery lashes can enhance your appearance and give you the look you’ve been dreaming of. If you’re not born with naturally thick lashes, the good news is that eyelash extensions can give you the look you want. Here’s what to know about eyelash extensions and tips to take care of them.

• Treat them gently

Do not pick, pull, or tug your eyelash extensions. Trying to pull them off may result in you pulling off your natural eyelashes as well. Minimize touching your extensions as you may transfer germs every time you touch them.

• Keep them clean

Do not allow dirt to build up on your eyelash extensions. To keep them clean, wipe with a damp washcloth or piece of cotton. Do not rub your lashes. When wearing makeup, ensure you always remove any mascara you wore with a gentle make-up remover.

• Limit mascara

When it comes to important things to know about eyelash extensions, makeup such as mascara is one of the things to be careful about. Always use a water-based mascara that can be washed off easily. Also, apply this mascara only on the tips of the eyelashes.

• Avoid sleeping on your stomach

Try to always sleep on your side or back. This reduces the risk of smashing your eyelashes while you sleep.

• Avoid exposure to water and steam

The effect of water and steam on eyelashes is one of the key points in learning what to know about eyelash extensions. Exposing your eyelashes to steam can make your face release more natural oil and sweat that can affect the look and longevity of the extensions. The adhesive can take up to 48 hours to dry completely. During this time, do not let the extensions come in contact with water.

• Comb upwards

Combing your eyelash extensions keeps them from clumping and helps maintain their look. When combing your lashes, always use sweeping, upward movements. This keeps dirt from getting stuck in the lashes and maintains their curl. You can use a disposable mascara brush or eye shadow brush.

• Do not use strip lashes over eyelash extensions

The eyelash extensions alone should be enough to make your lashes look naturally fuller. Do not use strip lashes over them. This is because when you remove the strip lashes, you may lose some of your own lashes as well.

• Do not remove them on your own

Eyelash extensions are removable but you should not attempt to do this on your own. One of the first things your salon is likely to tell you is that if you need to remove them, you must get it done by a professional.

Now that you have the answers to what to know about eyelash extensions and tips on how to take care of them, you can have long, fluttery lashes in all your photographs.