Why and How to Brush Eyelash Extensions and Natural Lashes
Lash Wands and Combs Are for Everyone
Whether you have lash extensions or natural lashes, combing and fluffing them regularly is essential. In less than 30 seconds, you can gently comb your lashes, improving their appearance and helping your extensions last longer!
HOW you brush them is also important. Don’t worry—it’s simple!
What Does an Eyelash Comb Do?
An eyelash comb, also known as an eyelash wand or eyelash brush, is used to gently remove buildup in the form of old makeup, skin cells, dirt and more. Regular combing also lifts and separates eyelashes and lash extensions.
Sticking to a lash care routine (cleansing, combing, regular fills) may also help extend the life of your lash extensions.
Is Combing Your Eyelashes Good?
YES! Combing your eyelashes isn’t just “good,” it’s ESSENTIAL. Combing or brushing your eyelashes after cleaning will remove any additional residue AND help to keep your lashes fluffed and in place! Start your daily lash care routine (natural or extensions) with a gentle cleanser, like our Lash Detox (Regular or Tea Tree). Allow lashes to air dry and follow with a gentle combing.
When to Comb Your Lashes
Most individuals schedule their lash care routine for the morning when they first wake up (because lashes can shift as you sleep), after applying makeup, after showering and after cleansing your lash line. Many people comb their lashes more than once a day. The key is to do it regularly and always comb gently!
Brushing Your Lashes After Applying Your Makeup
Combing your lashes after applying powdery cosmetics like eyeshadow or face powder can remove excess residue left on your lash line. When it comes to mascara, comb your natural lashes before applying it so you’re not applying the mascara on top of the powder residue. If you don’t brush your lashes before applying your mascara, you may notice your lashes clump together due to the remaining residue on your lash line. 💄
Can You Brush Eyelash Extensions When Wet?
No. We recommend allowing them to air-dry first. Then, give them a soft comb through to gently separate the lashes. This will give them that flawless, fluffy lash look you love!
How to Brush Your Eyelashes Extensions or Natural Lashes in 3 Simple Steps
With or without eyelash extensions, the brushing method is the same. However, when you have lash extensions, you need to be extra gentle when combing. We recommend you:
- Take your lash brush and apply it to the top of your lash line.
- Delicately roll your brush downward and outward through your lashes.
- If you find you still need a bit more fluff, you can take your lash wand and start under the base of your lashes and brush upward. This will give them the same fluff with a little extra lift!
Brushing this way is safe for your lashes (especially with extensions) and will REALLY get through your lash line without pulling or tugging.
See Our Techniques in Action
Get all the lash combing tips and tricks from one of our corporate stylist trainers in the video below. 🎥
Eyelash Combing Tools
The following tools are designed specifically for lash care:
- Lash Wands: If you’re a lash extension veteran, then you have lots of lash wands lying around. If not, don’t worry! You can always purchase a crystal lash wand (the wands we use at The Lash Lounge) at the salon, online or at your local beauty supply store.
- Silicone Wands: Silicone wands are also an option. The key difference between a standard and silicone wand is in the fibers. Silicone wands are sparser than other tools, which works well for separating lashes.
- Disposable Lash and Mascara Wands: Disposable synthetic mascara wands are made of dense brush fibers. They work on all lash types, though particularly well on thick, voluminous lash lines.
How to Comb Your Eyelashes Without an Eyelash Comb
What’s a girl to do if she doesn’t have a lash wand handy? Fear NOT! There are items you probably have around the house that will work. Some might even be a fun little DIY project!
- Use a Recycled Mascara Wand: You can repurpose a used mascara wand by cleaning it off with water (and baby shampoo if you have it on hand) to remove all the mascara residue from the brush. Once the water is clear, you know your brush is clean. Let it air-dry and it’s ready to use!
- Find a Fine-Toothed Comb: When selecting a comb, you want to pick one with the “teeth” of the comb positioned closely together. Very fine combs work the best!
- Repurpose a Toothbrush: Old clean toothbrushes or new brushes can work. First, take your toothbrush and trim the two outer layers of bristles, leaving the middle row of bristles longer.
- Use a Pipe Cleaner (from Your Craft Supplies): First, take your pipe cleaner and fold it to make a teardrop shape, then twist the ends together leaving a little “handle” at the bottom that you can hold on to, to comb through your lashes.
How to Clean Eyelash Combs
Your lashes are clean, but what about the brush or wand itself? The easiest way to clean your lash brush is to gently wipe it clean with an alcohol wipe after each use. Regular cleaning will prevent buildup.
The Beauty + Benefits of Brushing Your Lashes Daily
Spending 15–20 seconds sweeping through your lashes each day will do wonders for putting stray lashes in place and keeping your lash line fluffed. It will also help your extensions last longer, too!
Now that you know the proper brushing techniques and the tools you can use to brush your eyelashes, you’re ALL SET!
Schedule Your Appointment at The Lash Lounge
Of course, our stylists are on hand to assist you with the lash look you crave. From extensions to a lift and tint, we’re here to make your lashes look their best! 😘
