How to Safely Remove Eyelash Extensions

In 2025, more beauty lovers are skipping the salon and taking lash care into their own hands. Whether your extensions are starting to fall unevenly or you're ready to give your natural lashes a break, knowing how to remove eyelash extensions at home safely is key.

The good news? With the right techniques and a little patience, you can perform an eyelash extension removal at home without damaging your natural lashes or irritating your eyes. Let’s walk through the safe, gentle way to do it, and what not to do.

FIRST, KNOW THE SIGNS: IRRITATION OR ALLERGIC REACTION?

Before diving into lash extension removal at home, take a moment to assess your eyes. Are you experiencing general discomfort, or something more serious?

• Irritation: Slight redness, itchiness, or dryness is common after getting extensions. Often, this can be soothed with cold compresses or eye drops.
• Allergic Reaction: If you notice swelling, intense itching, or prolonged redness, it may be a reaction to lash glue. In this case, it’s best to remove your extensions as soon as possible and speak to a medical professional.

Knowing how to get rid of eyelash extensions safely is essential, especially if your eyes are reacting.

CAN VASELINE REALLY HELP? LET’S DEBUNK THE MYTH

You may have heard of removing lash extensions at home with Vaseline, but here’s the truth: Vaseline does not dissolve professional eyelash glue. Most salon adhesives are cyanoacrylate-based, and petroleum jelly won't break down that bond.

Instead, stick to tried-and-true methods using oil-based removers or natural oils. Leave the Vaseline for moisturising, not for lash removal.

TRIED AND TRUE: WHAT ACTUALLY DISSOLVES EYELASH GLUE?

If you’re wondering how to remove eyelash glue effectively, these methods are your best bet:

• Castor oil: A natural favourite for loosening extensions and nourishing lashes
• Coconut oil or olive oil: Gentle and effective
• MODELROCK’s Dual Action Remover: Specifically formulated for safe lash extension removal at home
• Warm steam: Helps soften the glue and prep your lashes for removal

These methods are ideal for anyone learning how to remove lash extensions at home without damaging their lash line.

HOW TO REMOVE LASH EXTENSIONS AT HOME – STEP BY STEP

Follow this easy routine to gently take off your extensions:

1. Take a steamy shower or hover your face over a bowl of hot water to loosen the glue
2. Apply castor oil or an oil-based remover to a cotton pad or Q-tip
3. Let it sit for 10–30 seconds to soften the adhesive
4. Gently wipe away the lash glue using a downward motion
5. Repeat if needed. Some lashes may take longer to come off
6. Moisturise your lash line with coconut or castor oil afterward

OR

1. Brush your lashes in an upwards motion, like how you would apply your mascara. Apply MODELROCK's Remover Gel above your lashes, making sure to generously coat every lash. Saturating them thoroughly with the solution will make the removal process easier.
2. Wait 10 - 20 seconds to allow the bond to loosen. Alternatively, you can also use our Dual Action Remover for stubborn build-up. Dual Action Remover gently removes makeup, oil, and impurities from your skin. This unique, two-phase remover effectively erases stubborn mascara and extension adhesive build-up. The oil phase loosens makeup, whilst the water phase washes it away.
3. Once adhesive bond has loosened, carefully pull off each individual cluster from your natural lashes. You can do this with your fingers.

These are the best ways to remove eyelash extensions at home without causing damage.

AVOID THESE COMMON MISTAKES

We get it… when your lashes start shedding unevenly, it’s tempting to speed up the process. But here’s what not to do:

• Never tug or pull at your lash extensions
• Avoid using tweezers unless the extension is already detached
• Don’t rush. Give the glue time to soften properly
• Don’t skip aftercare. Your natural lashes need TLC

Learning how to take off lash extensions safely is all about patience.

AFTERCARE ESSENTIALS: BRING YOUR NATURAL LASHES BACK TO LIFE

Once your extensions are off, your natural lashes might feel a bit sparse or fragile. Here’s how to care for them:

• Apply castor oil or lash serum nightly
• Give your lashes a break—avoid reapplying extensions for 2–4 weeks
• Use gentle, oil-free eye makeup
• Skip rubbing or scrubbing your eyes

These simple steps help you recover post lash extension removal at home and prep your lashes for a fresh start.

LOOKING FOR A GENTLER ALTERNATIVE? TRY LASHPLAY OR FALSIES

If you’re ready to ditch the salon but still want that lifted, full lash look… MODELROCK has your back.

• LashPlay! DIY Extensions: Perfect for beginners or those with sensitive eyes
• Individual & strip lashes: Easy to apply, customisable, and reusable
• Pre-glued lashes: Get the glam without the glue

They're perfect for anyone wondering how to take off fake eyelashes or wanting a break from salon extensions.

FAQ – YOUR LASH REMOVAL QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Is it safe to remove eyelash extensions at home?

Yes, but only if you’re patient and gentle. Use safe methods like oil-based removers or steam—not tweezers or harsh pulling.

What is the fastest way to remove eyelash extensions at home?

Using a steam treatment followed by a glycol- or oil-based remover is the quickest and safest way. Let the remover sit and gently wipe away the lashes.

How do I remove glue from my natural lashes?

After extensions are off, use a cotton pad with warm water and castor oil to soften and gently remove any leftover glue. Avoid scraping or rubbing.

READY FOR A FUSS-FREE LASH ROUTINE?

Shop MODELROCK’s lash-friendly DIY kits and false lashes today!