How to Clean, Store and Reuse False Lashes

After you remove your false lashes, resist the urge to toss. Yes, you should hold on to the clumpy, glue-laden lashes you spent the day wearing.

Hear us out, lashes don’t come cheap! A single drugstore set can run upwards of $5, which adds up if you’re an avid purchaser. But who said you have to immediately chuck your lashes after one use?

The synthetic lashes that you’d usually dispose of after the day is done can actually be worn up to 5 times with proper care. Also, high-end lashes can last through 25 applications. Do yourself (and your bank account) a favor and reuse them.

After talking with Beautylish Creative Production Associate (and daily false lash wearer) Desirey Ayers, we came up with cleaning and storage guides for both drugstore and high-end falsies. Here are our tips and tricks for keeping your strips sanitized so you can optimize each pair.

Drugstore Lash Cleaning & Storage Guide:

Step #1: Remove all traces of residual glue off the band with a petite-sized tweezer. The smaller prongs will provide precision in lifting glue, but not the false lash stands.

Step #2: With a cotton swab and an oil-free makeup remover, rid your lashes of mascara, dirt, and extra glue.

Timesaving Tip: When first applying your false lashes, curl your false and natural lashes to avoid separation. Simply use a touch of mascara to seal—this will minimize the clumpy clean up.

Step #3: Place your lashes in a cup of warm water and let them soak for 5-10 minutes to wash away anything you might have missed.

Step #4: Blot your lashes on a microfiber towel and let air-dry overnight. In the morning, brush out the lashes with a spoolie. Store in the original lash case or re-wear!

High-End Lash Cleaning & Storage Guide:

Step #1: Remove all traces of residual glue off the band with a petite-sized tweezer. The smaller prongs will provide precision in lifting glue, but not the false lash stands.

Step #2: With a cotton swab and an oil-free makeup remover, spot treat areas of the lashes that may have mascara. Do not submerge in makeup remover or water.

Remember: Avoid adding mascara directly to high-end lashes. The oils and waxes in mascara can break down the bond between the lash band and lash hairs, causing unnecessary fallout. Instead, curl your natural lashes and add mascara before application.

Step #3: Store lashes in the original lash case. When ready to use, gently loosen the outer corners of the lash band with a pair of tweezers and lift up.