Here’s How to Remove False Eyelash With No Glue Residue Left Behind
Fact: When it comes to lashes, we love a great set of falsies. Whether they’re fluffy, wispy, sky high, or lush and fluttery, our lash love knows no bounds.Also a fact, lash removal and application (thanks to the lash adhesive that glues lash bands to our lash line) can be a real pain in the you-know-what to put on and take off, especially if you’re new to fake eyelashes. Raise your hand if you’ve ever made a sticky mess putting lash glue on, had a not-so-fun time taking it off, or have even gotten it stuck on your skin or your eye area (yup, we’ve been there). If your answer is yes to one, two, or even all of the above, read on, because we’ve got your back.
While we know there are a ton of false eyelash options out there, not all of them use glue. And before we deep dive into how to remove glue, it’s important to note that removing eyelash extensions is 100% best left to a lash technician. Lash extension glue can be tricky to remove, and you don’t want to risk damaging your natural lashes. The types of lashes that use glue that you can remove yourself? “One-piece lashes that go across the eyelids, individual lashes (actual, singular lashes that can be used to fill in gaps or add some natural length and volume), and cluster lashes, which are usually a little cluster of a few lashes to add volume,” says makeup artist Lindsay Kastuk. Here are her tips on how to get eyelash glue off and get yourself out of a sticky situation.
Meet the Expert
Lindsay Kastuk is a makeup artist based in NYC
6 Ways to Remove Eyelash Glue
1. If You’re Wearing Strip Lashes
Don’t pull them off (no matter how tired you are). Strip lashes can work wonders without being too tricky to put on. But if you’re eager to remove them at the end of a long night, don’t be too hasty. “Definitely do not just rip them off if you can help it! Your eyes are sensitive and we definitely want to treat them with care. With strip lashes, start from the outer corner and slowly and gently remove them,” says Kastuk. It’ll also help to pull your eyes taught at the outer corners to avoid tugging at delicate skin or use a pair of tweezers if you can't quite grasp the corners.
2. If You’re Wearing Single Lashes
Protect your own lash hairs. When removing false lashes, be gentle so that you don’t remove the ones that are your natural lashes, especially with individual lashes or clusters that can blend in really well with your own. “With individuals or clusters, definitely pull gently, making sure you’re not pulling your own lashes as well. Use some micellar water or eye makeup remover (we love an oil-based makeup remover like FIRST AID BEAUTY 1-in-1 Cleansing Oil + Makeup Remover), on a Q-tip or cotton pad to clean up any leftover glue residue spots,” advises Kastuk.
3. If You Get Glue on Your Skin
We’ve all been there, so if you do, don’t worry! Removing excess glue is actually no biggie. “Try to use a cotton tip while the glue is still a little wet and just gently roll over the spot. Also, try to use as little glue as possible to start out. The glue is quite strong, you only need a little bit!” Kastuk adds.
4. If Your Lash Glue Irritates Your Skin
This one’s a gem if you’ve got sensitive eyes or sensitive skin. “Big tip for those with sensitive skin, purchase lash glues without latex. A lot of people are allergic to it, but sometimes it can cause some irritation to those who don’t have an allergy,” Kastuk says. TARTE Tarteist Pro Goddess Lashes + Lash Glue is latex-free, vegan, and cruelty-free.
5. If Your Glue Gets Goopy and Makes a Sticky Mess
Here’s what you can do to prevent it. Most of us are used to lining our falsies with our eyelash adhesive first, but the trick is to do the exact opposite. Kastuk recommends squeezing just a tiny dot so you don’t end up with excess glue all over your lids. She says, “The key here is less is more.” Squeeze it onto a palette, then dip your lashes into the glue instead of applying glue straight to the edge of your lashes. Then wait 15 to 20 seconds for it to dry. “You don’t want the glue to be too wet and you don’t want it to be dried fully either. I know that sounds so hard to tell, and it may take a little practice, but after you do it a few times you’ll learn when it’s time!” Kastuk adds.
6. If the Glue Is Just Really Stubborn
Your lash glue shouldn't take a ton of scrubbing to remove, but just in case it's really stuck, try this. Wash your face and your eyes with warm water, or use your go-to eye makeup remover to remove any traces of mascara and eyeliner. Then, grab some oil. Dab some coconut oil, baby oil, castor oil, or olive oil along your lash line using a cotton pad, cotton ball, or cotton swab (we use KAPULUAN Raw Organic Coconut Oilanywhere and everywhere) on your lashes and let it sit (this trick has gotten us out of a sticky sitch several times). Soaking your lashes in oil for a bit will make them easier to remove and help get rid of glue residue—just be careful not to get any in your eyes. Use a lash comb or spoolie to comb through your eyelash hairs and get rid of any remaining glue and clumps. Tip: Vaseline can work when you’re in a bind too!
Lastly, show your own lashes some love with a nourishing eyelash serum like BABE Lash Essential Serum(we love that we can use it on brows too!) to help them grow long and strong.
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