How to Remove Eyelash Extensions with Petroleum Jelly: A Step-By-Step Guide

Co-authored by Alicia Ramos and Dan Hickey

Last Updated: September 25, 2022 References

If some of your eyelash extensions have started to fall out, you’re probably wondering how to remove the rest of them so your lashes look even. While it’s always best to have a professional lash tech do this for you, removing them at home is pretty safe when you pay extra attention to cleanliness. That’s why we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to removing eyelash extensions safely with petroleum jelly. Read on to have those extensions gone in the blink of an eye!

1

Wash your hands thoroughly.

Clean hands and fingers reduce your risk of eye irritation or infection. Scrub your hands with antibacterial soap and hot water to remove dirt and germs. Dry your hands with a clean towel or cloth.^{[1]
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2

Dip a cotton swab in petroleum jelly.

A cotton swab or cotton bud works best for lash extension removal. Put a small dot of petroleum jelly—about the size of a grain of rice—onto the tip of your swab. Remember that you can always add more if you need, but you risk accidentally getting jelly in your eye if you use too much at once.^{[2]
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- Use a new, clean cotton swab to avoid spreading bacteria to your eyes.
- Use a name brand petroleum jelly like Vaseline. Vaseline is a pure form of petroleum jelly with added minerals that is safer for your skin.^{[3]
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3

Apply the petroleum jelly to your lash line.

When it comes to the jelly application, slow and steady wins the race. Close your eyes and use the cotton swab to wipe the petroleum jelly over the lash adhesive. Start at the root of your natural lashes and apply downwards in a swiping motion. Make sure all of the lash glue is covered.^{[4]
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4

Let the jelly sit for a few minutes.

The petroleum jelly needs time to fully dissolve the lash adhesive. After you’ve massaged it into the lash glue, allow it to sit while it absorbs into the extensions and softens the adhesive. Wait 3 to 5 minutes before gently wiping your lashes to see if they’re loose enough to come off.^{[5]
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- If you feel resistance when you test a lash, wait a few more minutes or add a tiny bit more petroleum jelly to fully dissolve the glue.

5

Wipe the lashes off with an eyebrow brush.

If the adhesive is dissolved, the lashes should slide off without drama. Use a small brush, like an eyebrow brush or a mascara wand, to gently wipe the lashes away.^{[6]
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- Alternatively, use your cotton swab to gently slide the extensions down and off your eyelid. The extensions might even start to come off as soon as you apply the jelly.
- Try not to tug or pull on stuck lashes. If they’re resistant, wait longer for the jelly to dissolve the adhesive.

6

Wipe away the excess petroleum jelly.

Once the extensions are off, it’s important to clean your eyes (again). Use warm water and a clean washcloth to gently rub your lashes and eyelids. This will remove any sticky globs of jelly, which can trap dirt, dust, and germs in your eyes.^{[8]
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7

Wash your face again with a mild cleanser.

Another face washing removes any residue your washcloth missed. Use a mild cleaner, like micellar water, to get rid of any remaining lash adhesive, petroleum jelly, or even eye makeup you may have missed earlier. Gently cleanse around your eyes in circular motions, then rinse and pat dry. Now your extensions are off and your lashes are squeaky clean!

8

Throw away your used eyelash extensions.

Unlike some false eyelashes, eyelash extensions should not be reused. It’s unhygienic (think of all the glue and makeup that gets on them) and they’ve experienced typical wear and tear while in your eye. They’re also very difficult to individually collect and clean. After they’re out, just throw them away.^{[9]
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Warnings

Never pull, tug, or tweeze eyelash extensions out. If you do, you risk damaging your natural lashes (maybe even permanently). If they’re not loose, leave them in.

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If you get petroleum jelly in your eyes, you might experience temporary irritation or blurred vision. Use artificial tears to flush it out and see a doctor if any irritation or impairment persists.^{[12]
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