Can I Wear Eyelash Extensions with Contact Lenses?

If you wear contacts and love long, voluminous lashes, you might be asking yourself: Can I wear eyelash extensions with contact lenses? The short answer is yes, absolutely — but there are a few important things to know before getting them.

Combining lash extensions and contact lenses can give you stunning eyes, but only if you follow proper aftercare and hygiene practices. Let’s go through everything you should know about contact lenses and eyelash extensions, whether you go to a professional lash tech or apply them yourself at home.

Getting Professional Lash Extensions With Contacts

Professional lash extensions are the safest choice for a long-lasting, natural look. A certified technician applies individual lashes using a specialized adhesive that never touches your eyes.

Still, there are some rules of eyelash extensions you should always follow — especially if you wear contacts regularly.

1. Remove contact lenses before your lash appointment.
   You’ll be keeping your eyes closed for up to 2 hours, and lenses can dry out or irritate your eyes.
   
2. Tell your lash artist that you wear contacts.
   They can use a low-fume, hypoallergenic adhesive designed for sensitive eyes — perfect for anyone combining lash extensions with contacts.
   
3. Choose lightweight lash materials.
   Soft, thin lashes (like 0.10mm silk or mink) are more comfortable for daily wear.
   
4. Avoid oil-based products.
   Oils can weaken lash glue and interfere with lens comfort, breaking one of the golden rules of eyelash extensions.
   

When applied properly, lash extensions and contact lenses can coexist beautifully — no irritation, no discomfort, just perfect lashes and clear vision.

Immediately After Appointment

After your lash appointment, your eyes might feel a bit sensitive. Follow these tips to protect both your lashes and contacts:

• Avoid inserting your lenses right away. Wait a few hours before putting them back in.
• Keep your lashes dry for the first 24 hours. The adhesive needs time to fully cure.
• Use a fan or lash dryer if you experience mild irritation from fumes.
  

This helps ensure your contact lenses and eyelash extensions remain comfortable from day one.

Keep Lashes Clean Once Fully Cured

Clean lashes mean happy eyes — especially when mixing lash extensions with contacts. After the first 24 hours, start gently cleansing your lashes daily.

Here’s how to keep things clean and healthy:

• Use a lash-safe foaming cleanser that’s oil-free.
• Brush your lashes gently with a clean spoolie to avoid tangles.
• Never rub your eyes or pull on your extensions — it’s one of the core rules of eyelash extensions.
  

Proper hygiene prevents irritation, ensures your lash extensions and contact lenses remain compatible, and helps your extensions last longer.

💫 DIY Lash Extensions for Contact Lens Wearers

Many people love doing their own lashes at home. If that’s you, don’t worry — DIY lash extensions and contact lenses can still work perfectly together.

Here’s how to stay safe and look fabulous:

• Remove your contacts before applying lashes. Lash glue fumes can irritate eyes if you wear lenses.
• Choose latex-free adhesive labeled safe for sensitive eyes — an essential part of the rules of eyelash extensions for DIY users.
• Apply lashes slightly above the lash line, leaving a tiny gap to prevent glue contact with your skin.
  

Once your lashes are dry and secure, you can put your contacts back in. Many wearers find lash extensions with contacts even more comfortable than mascara because there’s no flaking or smudging.

Inserting and Removing Contact Lenses With Lash Extensions

Inserting or removing contacts requires a little more care once you have lash extensions. The goal is to protect both your lashes and your lenses.

When Inserting Contacts

1. Wash and dry your hands completely.
2. Look slightly downward to keep your lashes out of the way.
3. Pull down your lower eyelid instead of touching your upper lid.
4. Insert the lens carefully and blink slowly.
   

When Removing Contacts

1. Wash your hands again — oils and makeup can cause problems.
2. Avoid pinching your upper lashes or pulling your lids roughly.
3. Use a mirror and move slowly — this is one of the most practical rules of eyelash extensions.
   

Pro tip: Tilt your chin up and look down when inserting or removing contacts. This angle prevents your fingertips from brushing your extensions, keeping your lash extensions and contact lenses safe and secure.

Additional Considerations For Wearing Lash Extensions With Contacts

Even though lash extensions with contacts are safe, there are a few more points to remember to keep your eyes healthy.

Eye Drops and Lens Solution

If your eyes get dry from contact wear, use preservative-free lubricating drops. Oil-based drops can weaken lash glue, so it’s best to avoid them — another key part of the rules of eyelash extensions for contact lens users.

When handling lens solution, make sure none spills near your lashes. Always dry your hands completely before touching your eyes.

Makeup and Skincare Products

Oil-based or heavy skincare near your eyes can damage both your extensions and lenses. Stick to water-based makeup removers and gentle cleansers.

Micellar water and lash-safe cleansers work best. This combination keeps your contact lenses and eyelash extensions in great shape.

Regular Lash Maintenance

To enjoy flawless lashes for weeks:

• The schedule fills every 2–3 weeks.
• Brush lashes gently each morning.
• Sleep on your back to prevent bending or tangling.
• Never use waterproof mascara on extensions.
  

These habits preserve both your lash extensions with contacts and your eye health.

Bottom Line

So, can you wear eyelash extensions with contact lenses?
Yes — and you can look amazing doing it.

With proper care and by following the rules of eyelash extensions, you can safely enjoy both. The most important things to remember are:

• Remove lenses before lash appointments or DIY applications.
• Keep your lashes clean and avoid oil-based products.
• Insert and remove your contacts carefully to protect your lash line.
  

Combining lash extensions and contact lenses is all about balance — comfort, hygiene, and gentle handling. When done right, you’ll have beautiful, natural-looking lashes and clear, irritation-free vision every day.