"All claims, guarantees and product specifications are provided by the manufacturer or vendor. Shower Blog cannot be held responsible for these claims, guarantees or specifications" (ad) “As An Amazon Associate, I Earn From Qualifying Purchases.” (Paid Link)
You have just invested time and money into getting a fresh set of voluminous lash extensions. You walk out of the salon feeling like a million bucks, but then you get home and face a terrifying realization: you need to shower. The fear of washing your money down the drain (literally) is real.
So, can you shower with eyelash extensions? The short answer is YES, but timing and technique are everything. Showering incorrectly is the fastest way to weaken the adhesive bond, leading to premature shedding. If you are already struggling with low shower head pressure, you might think you are safe, but water volume and temperature play huge roles.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the “48-Hour Rule,” the science of lash glue, and the exact tools you need—from gentle shower heads to specialized goggles—to keep those lashes looking lush for weeks.
This is the most critical window. Most lash technicians will tell you to avoid water entirely for the first 24 to 48 hours. Why?
Lash adhesive contains Cyanoacrylate. Unlike standard glue that dries by air, this adhesive “cures” by absorbing moisture from the air. However, if it gets soaked too quickly, “shock curing” occurs. The glue hardens instantly into a brittle, white solid (blooming) rather than a flexible bond, causing lashes to pop off immediately.
During this period, avoid steam at all costs. That means no steam showers, no saunas, and be careful even opening a hot oven!
Once the curing period is over, you must wash your lashes. In fact, not showering or cleaning your eyes can lead to Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) and lash mites. Here is your step-by-step protocol.
Never let the full force of the shower hit your face directly. High pressure acts like a pressure washer, physically ripping extensions off natural lashes. If you have a rainfall shower system, these are ideal because the gravity-fed water is gentler than an angled jet spray.
You might be wondering is a cold shower or hot shower better? For lashes, lukewarm is the only answer. Extreme heat softens the adhesive, making it tacky and weak. Keep it cool to keep them stuck.
If you are washing your hair and fear shampoo runoff (which often contains oils that dissolve glue), wear swimming goggles. It looks silly, but it works. This is similar to the advice given in our guide can I shower with contacts—protection is key.
After the shower, never rub a cotton towel on your face. Cotton fibers snag on lash bases. Instead, use a lint-free cloth or simply air dry. If you are in a rush, use a hair dryer on the cool, low setting.
Protecting your investment requires the right tools. Here are the top-rated products on Amazon to extend your lash retention.
Best for Face Washing. These clear plastic shields stick to your forehead, creating an umbrella for your eyes. Perfect for keeping shampoo away from your lashes.
Check Price on Amazon
Best Hardware Upgrade. If your current shower head is a pressure washer, swap it for this. The gentle flow mimics natural rain, reducing impact on your lashes. Easy to install yourself.
Check Price on Amazon
Best Maintenance Product. You MUST wash your lashes. This oil-free foaming cleanser removes sweat and makeup without dissolving the glue bond.
Check Price on AmazonIf you are working out, you are sweating. Sweat contains salt and oils, both of which degrade lash glue. You should absolutely shower after a workout. Check our guide on showering before or after exercise. When you do, prioritize washing your face with an oil-free cleanser immediately to remove the salt.
If you have roommates who love scalding hot showers, wait for the steam to dissipate before you enter. High humidity is the enemy. If the mirror is fogged up, it’s too steamy for your lashes. This is also why you should be careful with shower doors that seal too tightly, trapping steam inside.
We all love an “everything shower”—shaving, exfoliating, hair masking. But these products are often oil-heavy. If you plan to shave using conditioners or oils, do it carefully. Apply products from the neck down only. If you use a hair mask, clip your hair back so wet, oily strands don’t slap against your eyes.
Yes, but chlorine and salt water can weaken the bond. Wear goggles if possible. If you do submerge, rinse your lashes with fresh water immediately after. Read more: Shower Before or After Swim?
This is usually due to three things: water pressure was too high, the water was too hot, or you used an oil-based face wash. It could also be hard water buildup weighing them down.
Gently pat your face with a lint-free towel (avoid the eyes). Then, use a clean spoolie brush to comb them out while fanning them with cool air or a hair dryer on the “cool” setting.
It is not recommended. The intense heat and humidity of a steam room or sauna can soften the adhesive, leading to poor retention and premature shedding.
Can you shower with eyelash extensions? Absolutely. In fact, keeping them clean is vital for their longevity. The secret lies in the gentle approach: lukewarm water, low pressure, and oil-free products.
By upgrading your bathroom routine—perhaps installing a gentler shower head or simply using a visor—you can protect your investment and wake up flawless every day. Now, go enjoy that shower, but keep those goggles handy!
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, ShowerBlog earns from qualifying purchases. Always follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your lash technician.
