Your Complete Guide on How to Prep Lashes for Extensions

If you’ve never had eyelash extensions before, it’s easy to assume you just show up, lie down, and walk out with beautiful lashes. But the truth is, the secret to a smooth appointment — and flawless results — begins before you even step into the salon.

Many first-time clients say, “I wish someone told me this earlier!” So today, we’re breaking down everything you need to know, especially how to prep lashes for extensions the right way.

Why Proper Prep Matters

Preparing your lashes isn’t a small detail — it’s one of the biggest factors that impacts:

• How well the extensions bond
  
• How long do they last
  
• How comfortable the application feels
  
• How your final set looks
  

When your lashes are clean, dry, and free of oils, your technician can work more efficiently and create a longer-lasting set.

1. Start With Clean, Product-Free Lashes

The most important rule in how to prep lashes for extensions is simple:
👉 Arrive with completely clean natural lashes.

Avoid:

• mascara
  
• eyeliner
  
• waterproof makeup
  
• oily cleansers
  
• lash serums on the day of your appointment
  

Any residue can interfere with adhesive bonding and lead to poor retention.

Pro tip:
If you use waterproof mascara regularly, stop at least 2–3 days before your appointment. It tends to cling to lashes and is harder to remove.

2. Avoid Oil-Based Products 24 Hours Before

Oil can break down lash adhesive faster than anything else.
To prep properly, avoid applying around the eye area:

• oil-based moisturisers
  
• cleansing balms
  
• heavy face creams
  
• facial oils
  

Keeping the eye area oil-free ensures a clean, dry base for the adhesive to grip.

3. Know Your Lash Line Health

Healthy natural lashes = better extension results.

Here’s what to check before your appointment:

• no redness or irritation
  
• no active eye infections
  
• no lingering eyelash glue from strip lashes
  
• no recent allergic reactions around the eyes
  

If you’ve had sensitivity to lash glue in the past, inform your lash technician ahead of time.

4. Communicate Your Preferred Style Early

Many clients wish they had a clearer idea of what they wanted the first time.

Before your appointment, think about:

• Do you want natural or dramatic?
  
• Wispy or uniform?
  
• Longer edges or a cat-eye lift?
  

Sharing your preferences helps your artist design the perfect custom set for your eye shape and lifestyle.

5. Remove Contact Lenses

If you wear contacts, take them out before the application.
This prevents:

• dryness
  
• discomfort
  
• irritation
  
• adhesive fumes interacting with lenses
  

Bring your lens case and glasses with you.

6. Schedule Enough Time for Your Appointment

A high-quality full set takes time, typically 1.5–2.5 hours.
Don’t rush yourself.

Give your lash artist the time they need to create clean, even, beautiful work.

7. Prepare for Aftercare

Knowing aftercare before your appointment is just as important as prepping beforehand.

Expect to avoid for the first 24 hours:

• steam
  
• heavy sweating
  
• water on the lashes
  
• heat exposure
  

Understanding this helps you plan your day so you don’t accidentally affect your extensions right after they’re applied.

Beautiful Lashes Start With Proper Prep

Learning how to prep lashes for extensions is one of the most valuable things you can do as a first-time client. Clean natural lashes, proper communication, and simple pre-appointment habits all lead to better retention and a smoother experience.

✨ At Posh Deluxe Salon, we specialise in safe, customised lash extensions designed to enhance your natural beauty.
Even if it’s your first set or you’re returning for a refill, our trained lash artists ensure comfort, precision, and stunning results every time.

Ready for your best lash experience? Book your appointment today with Posh Deluxe Salon.