A beautiful tan paired with fluttery eyelash extensions might sound like the dream. We get it, you want that glowing, sun-kissed look and long, natural-looking lashes at the same time. But before you head to your next sunbed session or lie in the sun for hours, it’s worth knowing how tanning with eyelash extensions can …
A beautiful tan paired with fluttery eyelash extensions might sound like the dream. We get it, you want that glowing, sun-kissed look and long, natural-looking lashes at the same time. But before you head to your next sunbed session or lie in the sun for hours, it’s worth knowing how tanning with eyelash extensions can affect your lashes, and what you can do to protect them.
At Edy London, we specialise in natural lashes that enhance your features without looking overdone. Edy is a renowned lash technician who has worked with big celebs and appeared in multiple beauty magazines, so we’ve seen first-hand how important aftercare is when it comes to maintaining your lashes.
Tanning might feel like just another beauty ritual, but the truth is, it can seriously compromise the look, shape, and longevity of your lash extensions.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Tanning with Eyelash Extensions Isn’t a Great Match
Let’s start with the basics. Whether you’re sunbed tanning or lying outside in the sun, you’re exposing your face to UV rays, heat, and moisture, all of which can mess with the delicate adhesive bond that keeps your lash extensions in place.
The glue we use at Edy London needs time to fully cure. Even once it has, it’s sensitive to high heat environments. UV radiation from sunbeds or direct sunlight can weaken the adhesive, which means your lashes are more likely to fall out prematurely, lose their curl, length, or even change shape and appearance altogether.
You might also notice increased dryness around the eye area after a session. This can leave the lashes brittle and more prone to breakage, especially if you’re not following the right post tan care.
Not to mention, eye discomfort or irritation is common when the eyes are exposed to intense UV exposure, and the materials used in lash extensions don’t react well to those conditions. Don’t forget, sunbeds and UV rays are harmful to your natural lashes too! If you’re still unsure, this guide on how sunbeds after eyelash extensions can be harmful offers more insight into the potential damage caused by UV exposure.
Sunbeds Offer Warmth, But at a High Cost for Your Lashes
Sunbed tanning might seem like a quick fix for a gorgeous glow, but it comes with several risks, especially when you’re wearing lash extensions.
The heat sources in sunbeds, combined with UV radiation and natural sweat, can cause the lash adhesive to soften, melt or become brittle. That means your lashes won’t stay in place like they should.
In some cases, the glue can break down prematurely. That not only affects how your lashes look, but can also make them harder to maintain long-term.
Think of it like this: just as sunbeds can dry out your skin, they can similarly compromise your lashes, and once the bond is broken, there’s little you can do to fix it other than a visit to your lash technician.
Can You Tan Safely with Eyelash Extensions?
The short answer is: you can, but you have to be smart about it. If you’re heading out to get that sun kissed glow, or if you really must use a sunbed, there are a few ways to give your lashes added protection.
First,
Avoid exposing your lashes directly to the heat and UV rays. You can wear UV-protective goggles (not just the standard tanning ones) and gently cover your lash line with a soft cloth while in the tanning bed. It’s not perfect, but it’s better than nothing and will protect your lash extensions from UV exposure.
Secondly,
Always wait at least 24 to 48 hours after having your eyelash extensions done before tanning. The glue needs time to fully cure, and premature exposure to other heat sources can weaken the bond before it’s even had a chance to set.
Finally,
If you’re going out in the sun, try wearing a wide-brimmed hat or large sunglasses to shield your eyes. We also recommend wearing gel-based sunscreen, Edy’s favourite is Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-Free SPF 50. And when it comes to sunbathing, avoid steam rooms, saunas, or lying directly in the sun straight after a lash appointment.
Aftercare is Everything
If you’ve already had a tanning session and are worried about your lashes, don’t panic. A little aftercare can go a long way.
Start by gently cleansing your lashes with a lash safe cleanser, make sure it’s oil free to avoid breaking down the adhesive. Avoid rubbing your eyes, and be careful when applying any moisturisers or products near the skin around your eye area.
You’ll find everything you need to know in our detailed eyelash extension aftercare guide here.
It’s packed with tips to help your lashes stay in place for longer and look their best, even after a tan.
How Edy London Can Help
At Edy London, we believe beauty shouldn’t come with compromise. That’s why we use the highest quality lash extensions, applied by the brilliant Edy who specialises in creating natural looks that last. We’re also part of the wider beauty community, so we’re always up-to-date with the latest best practices, from tanning sessions to lash aftercare instructions.
Edy don’t just apply lashes, she helps you understand how to take care of them, avoid potential damage, and keep them looking fresh between appointments. If you’re not sure whether tanning is affecting your lashes, or you’ve noticed your extensions aren’t lasting like they used to, come in for a chat. We’re here to help.
The Bottom Line
Tanning with lash extensions isn’t impossible, but it does require care, patience, and a bit of planning. Whether you’re using sunbeds, heading on holiday, or just want that sun kissed glow, knowing how UV rays, heat, and moisture can affect your lashes is key to keeping them healthy.
Stick to good aftercare, avoid high heat environments, and protect your lashes during tanning, and you’ll be able to enjoy both a beautiful tan and flawless lashes that truly remain intact.
If you have any questions or want advice tailored to your lashes, don’t hesitate to reach out at Edy London. We’re always happy to share what we know, because beauty should be simple, stunning, and long-lasting.
Contact us
Book your appointment today with Edy London, an expert lash technician, and let’s keep your lashes looking their natural best, come rain, shine, or tanning session.
