Eyelash Extensions Maintenance: Care, Infills and Common Mistakes

Maintenance guide for lash extensions: how often to infill, daily routine, products to avoid and when to remove.
Why they need maintenance
Your natural lashes shed 1-5 per day, taking the extension with them. Without infills, density gradually decreases.
How often to infill
Every 2-3 weeks. Oily skin or fast growth: every 14-16 days. With a good routine: every 3 weeks.
Week-by-week timeline
| Week | % remaining | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 95-100% | Cleansing routine |
| 2 | 80-90% | Consider infill if loss is higher |
| 3 | 60-75% | Optimal infill time |
| 4 | 40-55% | Urgent infill or removal |
| 5+ | <35% | Removal + fresh full set |
Daily routine: 3 steps
1. Cleansing (2 min)
Oil-free cleanser + soft brush. Stroke up and down, never horizontally. Rinse with lukewarm water. Pat dry.
2. Brushing (30 sec)
Clean spoolie from mid-length to tips. Never from the root.
3. Sleeping position
On your back is ideal. On your side with a silk/satin pillowcase is acceptable. Face down: enemy number one.
Products to avoid
- Oil-based biphasic makeup removers
- Facial oils near the eye area
- Waterproof mascara
- Oil-based sunscreen on the eyelids
- Petroleum jelly
Common mistakes
- Not cleansing out of fear (the number one cause of premature shedding)
- Pulling at loose extensions (tears out the natural lash)
- Using an eyelash curler (snaps the extensions)
- Waterproof mascara
- Steam/extreme heat
- Skipping infill appointments
When to remove rather than infill
- <40% remaining
- Twisted/deformed extensions
- Persistent irritation (possible allergy)
- 5+ weeks without an infill
Lower-maintenance alternatives
Lash lift: 6-8 weeks without infills. Gandía / Ontinyent. Individual lashes: a more subtle effect.
FAQ
Can I get them wet after curing?
Yes, after 24-48 hours. Rinse with fresh water after swimming in the pool or sea.
Can I wear mascara with extensions?
Only water-based, only on the tips. Waterproof is out of the question.
Why do more lashes fall from one eye?
Possible causes: sleeping on that side, oilier skin, touching that eye more. Identify the habit.
Do extensions damage natural lashes?
Not if properly applied and professionally removed. Damage comes from excessive weight or DIY removal.