Cherish your lashes: top 6 tips for perfect eyelash care
When it comes to beauty routines, eyelashes often get a little overlooked. But let's face it, they can really make or break a look. Whether you were born with long, thick lashes or need a little extra boost with mascara, taking care of your natural eyelashes is key to ensuring they stay healthy and fabulous. This is why we've compiled our six go-to hacks to keep your lashes in tip-top shape. Let's dive in!
1. Cleanse gently, no rubbing or scrubbing
Just like the skin on your face, your lashes need to be kept clean and free from build-up. It can be tempting to rub your eyes, especially after a long day, but that harsh scrubbing can damage your delicate lash hair and cause premature shedding. Instead, use a gentle cleanser to remove mascara and dirt. Opt for an oil-free makeup remover to prevent clogging the hair follicles on your lash line. A soft cotton pad and some gentle dabbing are all you need—no scrubbing or pulling!
Pro tip: Try using micellar water. It's a mild, gentle option that won't irritate the skin around your eyes.
2. Nourish with castor oil
If you're looking for a way to enhance the health of your lashes while supporting their natural shedding cycle, castor oil could be your new BFF. It's packed with vitamins and fatty acids that nourish and hydrate your lashes. It's also reputed to stimulate lash growth, with many people swearing by it. Pick up a little castor oil on a clean mascara wand (or a cotton bud), gently brush your lashes, and let it do its magic overnight. Just make sure not to get it in your eyes!
Pro tip: You have to be consistent for maximum results. Try using castor oil a few times a week and be patient—lash growth can take time.
3. Avoid overuse of mascara
Who doesn't love a little mascara to really make their eyes pop? But layers upon layers of mascara can lead to brittle lashes. The chemicals in mascara (especially if you are using waterproof mascara) can dry out delicate lashes, making them more prone to breaking. If you wear mascara every day, try at least a nourishing one that will improve lash health, or only wear it every other day to give your lashes a break.
Pro tip: Remove mascara thoroughly before bedtime. Even a tiny amount left can weaken your lashes overnight.
4. Keep the lash line healthy with eyeliner removal
Leaving eyeliner on overnight can clog hair follicles, which may weaken your lashes in the long run. Always remove pencil, gel, or liquid liner gently, focusing on the lash line. To dissolve makeup without too much rubbing, you'll need a gel or cream makeup remover.
Pro tip: Use a cotton bud soaked in remover to clean between luscious lashes and prevent product build-up.
5. Use a sleep mask for eyelash protection
As you sleep, your lashes face friction from your pillow, which can cause breakage. The Drowsy Eyelash Protecting Sleep Mask shields your lashes, preventing them from bending or rubbing against fabric. Its padded, breathable design is perfect if you have lash extensions or very delicate lashes. Plus, it's made from soft, breathable fabric, ensuring your skin stays comfortable all night long.
Pro tip: Pair your sleep mask with a nourishing lash serum for extra TLC while you sleep. You'll wake up with lashes that are not only well-rested but also healthier and stronger.
6. Give your lashes a break with lash serums
If you're constantly wearing mascara or eyelash extensions, your lashes could probably use a small boost. That's where lash serums can help. Infused with vitamins and peptides, these serums work to strengthen, lengthen, and condition your lashes. There's no need to wear them every day, but using a lash growth serum several times a week can do wonders to help the overall health and appearance of your lashes.
Pro tip: Look for a lash serum with natural ingredients like biotin and peptides. These will help plump up your natural lashes without irritating or damaging them.
Bonus tip: be mindful of eyelash extensions
False lashes and strip lashes are all the rage right now, but they require extra care. If you've recently had lash extensions applied, make sure to follow the aftercare guidelines your lash technician gave you. Don't rub your eyes, avoid oily eye makeup removers (they can dissolve lash glue), and don't apply mascara to the extensions directly (it can weaken the lash adhesive and make your extensions fall out prematurely).
Get infills regularly from lash artists to avoid having lash extensions falling. If you notice a few lashes shedding earlier than expected, consult your lash tech to see if you need a touch-up or a different lash extension service to suit your natural lashes better.
Wake up to healthier, happier lashes
Taking care of your lashes isn't rocket science, but a little extra TLC can go a long way. Hopefully, these tips will get you on the right track to care for your natural lashes. And if you want to give your eyelashes some extra love, invest in a high-quality sleep mask, like Drowsy's Eyelash Protecting Silk Sleep Mask.
Made from 100% pure mulberry silk, it's ultra-soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic—perfect for sensitive skin and delicate lashes. Choose your favourite colour, from the calming Midnight Blue to the playful Damask Rose to the elegant Moonlight Shadow, and sleep in style while protecting your lashes.
