Life with new lash extensions can be tricky. We get a lot of questions about lash extension aftercare, and we know how overwhelming it can seem at first. It just seems like there are suddenly so many things to be aware of—like the way you sleep!
Don’t worry. Lash extension maintenance isn’t too hard to figure out. In this article, we’ll cover a question I get a lot: “When I get lash extensions, do I need to sleep on my back?”
Q: Now that I have lash extensions, should I only sleep on my back?
A: Not necessarily!
Most eyelash technicians will highly recommend sleeping on your back in order to protect your eyelash extensions from getting tugged at or pulled off in your sleep.
See, when you sleep on your side or on your front, your face usually ends up rubbing against your pillow or bedcovers. Most pillowcase fabrics (especially cotton) and blankets have stray fibres that can tug at your lashes. And pressing your face against your pillow can flatten your eyelash extensions, deforming their natural curl or affecting the bond of the glue.
We can generally tell when clients sleep on their side, and which side they favour based on what their lashes look like at their infill appointment. To them it seems like some sort of magic when we say “do you sleep on your right side?” – but it’s easy when you can see one eye has noticeably more extensions remaining than the other.
Q: Are there steps I can take to keep my lashes safe when sleeping?
A: Yes!
We get it. There’s nothing quite like curling up on your side in comfy PJs. But don’t worry—there are other ways to keep your lashes safe during sleepy-time.
Eye Masks
At our self-care station, we offer pink 3D Lash Spa Eye Masks. These masks are one of the best ways to get a full night’s rest without compromising your new lashes. They have contours around the eye area specifically designed to protect your lash extensions. This keeps your lashes lush while keeping you fresh and well-rested.
They’re perfect for travelling, too. Just pop them on during those long flights for some much-deserved beauty sleep.
Just like any other eye mask, make sure you clean it regularly to avoid bacteria and other unwanted elements from developing.
Silk Pillowcase
Not much for eye masks? Then try switching out your regular pillowcase for a silk one! Unlike cotton, velvet, or linen fabrics, silk is smooth and totally forgiving. It won’t tug at your eyelash extensions, and there’s a better chance of your eyelashes just slipping to the side—instead of folding or flattening—when they’re smushed up against silk.
Skincare
If you’ve got a regular night-time skincare regimen, make sure you review your products’ ingredients. Oil-based cleansers and creams are a big no-no when you have eyelash extensions. Even micellar-water can loosen the bond of lash glue. They may feel great on the skin, but unfortunately, they’re also good at dissolving most lash glues. Switch to water-based products or oil-free alternatives.
Doing these things will ensure you get your beauty rest, and when you rise your lashes are in tip-top condition.