The Lash & Lens Guide: Can You Wear Contacts While Getting Eyelash Extensions?
If you wear contact lenses and are planning your first lash appointment, you’ve probably wondered: “Can you wear contacts while getting eyelash extensions?”
Yes, most clients can safely wear contacts during their lash appointment. However, there are a few important things to know to keep your eyes comfortable and protect your lash experience.
At Posh Deluxe Salon in Perth WA, client comfort and eye safety are always our priority. Here’s everything you need to know before your appointment.
Why Some Lash Artists Recommend Removing Contacts
Even though eyelash extensions are safe for contact lens wearers, removing your lenses before the appointment can make the experience more comfortable.
There are two primary reasons why professionals suggest removing lenses during the application process:
- Extended Closure and Dryness: A professional lash application typically requires your eyes to remain fully closed for 1.5 to 2 hours. For contact lens wearers, this prolonged closure can prevent oxygen from reaching the eye, causing the lenses to dry out and become uncomfortable or “gritty”.
- Adhesive Fumes: Lash extensions are applied using professional-grade adhesives. While these are safe when used correctly, the fumes can occasionally become trapped behind a contact lens if the eye is not perfectly sealed. This can lead to irritation and the dreaded red eyes after lashes, which is easily avoidable by simply removing the lenses.
This doesn’t mean you can’t wear them, it simply means removing them may improve comfort.
What Happens If You Keep Your Contacts In?
For many clients, nothing major happens at all.
However, some people may experience:
- Mild dryness
- Watery eyes
- Slight sensitivity during application
This is especially common if you already have:
- Sensitive eyes
- Dry eye symptoms
- Seasonal allergies
If you choose to keep your contacts in, let your lash artist know before the appointment.
4 Tips for Contact Lens Wearers Before Your Appointment
To make your lash appointment smoother, follow these simple tips:
1. Bring Your Contact Case
Even if you plan to wear your lenses, it’s smart to bring a case and solution just in case your eyes feel uncomfortable.
2. Arrive with Clean Eyes
Avoid eye makeup, heavy creams, or oily products around the eye area.
Clean lashes help improve:
- Adhesive bonding
- Lash retention
- Overall comfort during application
3. Avoid Caffeine Right Before Your Appointment
Too much caffeine can make your eyes flutter during application, especially if you’re already wearing contacts.
4. Wait to Reinsert:
It is best to wait about an hour after your service before putting your contacts back in to allow any lingering adhesive fumes to completely dissipate.
5. Let Your Lash Artist Know You Wear Contacts
This helps your artist adjust if needed and check in on your comfort throughout the appointment.
Can Lash Extensions Affect Contact Lenses Afterwards?
In most cases, no.
Once your lashes are properly applied and cured, eyelash extensions should not interfere with your contact lenses.
In fact, many clients wear both comfortably every day.
However, it’s important to follow proper lash extension aftercare to avoid irritation.
Lash Extension Aftercare Tips for Contact Lens Wearers
If you wear contacts regularly, these tips can help keep both your lashes and eyes healthy:
- Avoid rubbing your eyes
- Clean your lashes daily with a lash-safe cleanser
- Be gentle when inserting or removing contacts
- Avoid oil-based products near the eyes
- Brush your lashes daily with a spoolie
These habits help improve retention and reduce irritation.
What If You Have Sensitive Eyes?
If your eyes are easily irritated, don’t worry, this is something we can work with.
At Posh Deluxe Salon, we customise every appointment based on your comfort and sensitivity level.
We can:
- Adjust tape placement if needed
- Monitor eye comfort during the appointment
- Recommend styles that feel lighter and more natural
Communication is key, so always let your lash artist know about any sensitivities beforehand.
Final Thoughts on Eye Safety
So, can you wear contacts while getting eyelash extensions?
Yes, you absolutely can. But for maximum comfort, many clients prefer removing them during the appointment, especially for longer sessions.
The most important thing is choosing an experienced salon that prioritises:
- Eye safety
- Proper application techniques
- Client comfort throughout the process
Ready for Comfortable, Beautiful Lashes?
At Posh Deluxe Salon, we create customised lash sets designed to look beautiful while keeping your natural lashes and eyes comfortable.
✨ Whether you wear contacts daily or have sensitive eyes, our experienced team is here to make your lash appointment relaxing and stress-free.
👉 Book your eyelash extension appointment today and experience luxury lashes tailored to you.
