So, can you swim with lash extensions in salt and chlorinated water? Follow these tips to extend their lifespan and maintain a beautiful appearance.
In Toronto, summer means lots of pool days and excursions to Lake Ontario. Water, sun, and local weather conditions all play a large role in your fun sun prevention.
Know how to care for lash extensions and you can swim to your heart’s content without concern. You’ll be looking flawless no matter how many times you take a plunge!
What Happens When Lashes Meet Water?
When lash extensions come in contact with water, multiple reactions can occur. These alterations affect how they look and how long they last. The adhesive used to attach the extensions is no joke, either. If water is new, salty, or chlorinated, that can break the bond – especially if the adhesive hasn’t cured long enough to fully bond yet.
In Toronto, where summer means trips to pools and lakes, understanding how different types of water interact with lashes helps you keep them looking their best.
Understanding Lash Adhesive Curing
Before understanding what you can do to keep your lashes in check, let’s talk about what’s going on during the curing process. Most experts recommend waiting at least 4 hours, but many clients find better retention waiting 24 to 48 hours before getting lashes wet.
Failing to do this step will cause premature fallout or loose lashes. These first hours allow the cyanoacrylate-based adhesive to create a full bond, which is important for maintaining long-term results. Water exposure within this timeframe breaks down the bond.
Whether it’s from rain, steam while cooking, or daily face washing, moisture can even change the final curl shape.
Initial Water Exposure: The First 24 Hours
The first 24 hours after getting new lashes is the most delicate time. Water, sweat, and extreme humidity can cause some major issues with your lashes. If you aren’t careful with them, they will clump, lose their shape, or get matted.
Avoid swimming, hot yoga, or long showers for a minimum of 24 hours. If you do accidentally touch your lashes or they come into contact with water, use a clean lash wand to comb through your lashes.
Why Modern Adhesives Are More Resilient
Today’s lash adhesives are developed with long-lasting formulas. Advances in cyanoacrylate formulas mean lashes hold up better to water, whether you’re at a Toronto pool or Lake Ontario.
However, with goggles, lash-safe coatings, and proper aftercare, lashes can stay healthy and beautiful for months.
Busting Myths About Swimming and Lashes
Lash extensions and swimming in Toronto have been two red-hot issues in recent weeks. What we listen to isn’t necessarily what we see in studio. Stop thinking that water will immediately ruin our lashes or that pool days are over.
Being informed is the best way to protect your lash investment. That way, you can have a blast all summer long at the lake or chill out at your local indoor pool without a worry. We’ll bust these myths and more, so you can take a dip without sacrificing your glam.
Myth: You Absolutely Cannot Swim
Myth #4 – Lashes and swimming don’t mix This is false. After an initial 24- to 48-hour drying time (allowing the lash adhesive enough time to set), feel free to swim at all hours!
We’ve had numerous Toronto clients, from competitive swimmers to broader fitness enthusiasts, who love swimming and other activities while looking fabulous with their lashes. The bottom line is this – be gentle, wear goggles if you swim regularly, and try not to have them underwater for extended periods of time.
Myth: Waterproof Mascara Adds Protection
Myth #7: Waterproof mascara adds protection Waterproof mascara is a big misconception in the lash world.
In reality, it reduces weight and can actually degrade the integrity of the bond of the adhesive. We’d recommend using a lash-friendly cleanser on your lashes post-swim and foregoing the mascara in general.
Myth: Saltwater is Totally Harmless
It can dry out and weaken lash extensions over time. After swimming in Lake Ontario or the ocean, rinse your lashes with fresh water.
To keep them even safer, try wearing goggles. Order of operations Regular cleaning will go a long way in ensuring your lashes stay full and fab.
Myth: Your Lash Curl Will Disappear
With the right care, you can maintain the integrity of your lash curl, no matter how much you swim!
With regular refills and soft brushing, your curls will remain looking fresh for weeks.
Myth: Rubbing Eyes Post-Swim is Okay
Besides the fact that rubbing your eyes can make lashes fall out prematurely.
Pat lashes dry with a soft towel and avoid excessive rubbing.
Pool vs Lake vs Ocean Swimming
Swimming with lash extensions in Toronto comes along with many challenges. You are going to face chlorinated pools, freshwater lakes, and the salty surf of Lake Ontario’s beaches or on excursions to the ocean. Each location offers its own set of challenges when it comes to lash care.
Pools may be healthier due to the transparency of the water, controlled temperatures, and presence of lifeguards. However, the chemicals that are added to pools can be pretty harsh on lash glue and your natural lashes. Lakes and oceans provide incredible scenic beauty and rich ecosystems. Expect very murky water, unpredictable temperature changes, and possible contact with debris or marine life.
Chlorine Effects in Canadian Pools
Chlorine is important for sanitation, but it’s a very effective agent for breaking down lash glue through oxidation. This in turn causes lashes to shed at a faster rate. Chlorine will dry out natural lashes and extension lashes, leaving them prone to breakage.
Don’t stay in the water too long when using treated water. Goggles are your best friend here, preventing the chlorine blasts from hitting your lashes directly.
Saltwater Impact on Coastal Swims
Saltwater pulls moisture out of lashes, which can degrade the glue. After a swim at Woodbine Beach or Scarborough Bluffs, rinse lashes with fresh water to remove salt.
Waves and pressure from ocean water can pull on lashes, so goggles are a good idea here.
Freshwater Swimming in Lakes and Rivers
Freshwater, such as in Lake Ontario or Muskoka, is much less harsh on lashes than pool or ocean water. Regardless, be sure to rinse off after swimming to wash away any sand or debris.
Watch out for irritants, as natural water can conceal harmful bacteria or algae.
Temperature Shifts and Lash Hold
Extreme fluctuations in water temperature or a few super hot summer days can disrupt lash glue, causing it to soften or become brittle. Protect your lashes during these temperature transitions and swim less if the water is uncomfortably warm or cold.
Your Smart Swimming Guide with Extensions
Swimming isn’t just a recreational opportunity for many Torontonians. They love the fast slides at Arts District pools, sunny afternoons at Sunny Cove Beach, and cottage getaways up north on weekends. If you’re a lash extension gal, don’t fret – you can still take a dip, just with some added precautions.
Lash extensions let you skip mascara and wake up ready, but they need some thought before, during, and after your swim. Our guide here provides some practical, easy steps for keeping your lashes lush and lovely whether you’re diving into a pool or splashing in the surf. We collect our ideas from what we learn each day at iBEAUTY CODE. Each tip is inspired by our Toronto clients’ top and most frequent questions.
1. Wait Before Your First Dip
After receiving a new set or fill, you may be excited and ready to jump straight into the water. That’s pretty tempting with all the pools and lakes around! Wise advice to heed, but patience pays off.
Wait a minimum of four hours before getting into the water, but many experts – us among them – prefer the wait to be eight hours for the glue to cure completely. The adhesive requires a deep cure, which takes time, particularly in the thick humidity of Toronto’s summertime.
This cure time allows your extensions to lock down strong, resulting in longer-lasting extensions without premature shedding. Schedule your swim days around your lash appointments. Schedule your lash appointment at least 24 hours before your next swim. We know it’s a small step, but it really does make a big difference in how your lashes look and feel post-removal.
2. Consider Protective Swim Goggles
Goggles may not come to mind at first when considering lash protection, but they are extremely effective. A close-fitting pair of swim goggles will keep water, chlorine, and salt out of your lashes. These factors can all compromise the adhesive.
Select swim goggles with a seal that feels right with no excess pressure on your eye. Choose models with soft silicone rims and adjustable straps for a fit that’s snug but non-irritating. If you swim regularly, consider adding goggles to your swim bag essentials.
Hundreds of clients have shared with us that this small change has helped their lashes stay fuller longer between fills. For added comfort, try a few pairs before you settle on one, as everyone’s face shape varies.
3. Avoid Direct Water Pressure
Streams of water hitting your face could cause the lash adhesive to degrade more quickly. Consider the impact of a splash from a diving board or the direct spray from a showerhead.
These types of pressure can send extensions flying off, resulting in gaps or uneven lashes. Do your best to swim away from waterfalls, intense pool jets, or jumping into deep water, as this can lead to susceptibility to SCI.
Choose strokes such as breaststroke or backstroke that allow your face to remain out of the water or progress slowly. When using a public pool, avoid direct water pressure fixtures. If you just had a nice swim, let your lashes air-dry before curling them. A little care and caution when enjoying aquatic activities will help ensure your lashes stay beautiful for years to come.
4. Rinse Lashes Gently After Swimming
Post-swim, ideally rinse your lashes right away with fresh, cool tap water. Saltwater, like that from a dip in Lake Ontario, or chlorine from a city pool can dry out and weaken the lash adhesive.
Rinsing removes these residues and prevents them from breaking down your lashes, making them last longer. Use a soft stream of water, not a direct spray, and allow the water to run over your closed eyelids.
Some of our clients carry a small spray bottle of fresh water in their swim bag for quick rinses at the beach or on the go. This added precaution not only ensures your lashes stay clean but prevents build-up from occurring, which can cause extensions to clump together or shed prematurely.
5. Pat, Don’t Rub, Your Eyes Dry
Once you’re out of the water, get a clean, soft towel and pat your eyes dry. Not only could rubbing loosen or even pull out extensions, but it can cause damage and irritation to your eyelids.
Patting also absorbs moisture without rubbing against the sensitive lash line. Make sure to always use a new towel or cloth to prevent the transfer of oils or sunscreen that may be on your skin to your lashes.
These oils will break down the adhesive and cause them to shed prematurely. We have a lot of clients who carry a small microfiber towel in their gym/swim bag for this purpose.
6. Comb Lashes Carefully When Dry
Once your lashes are dry, take a clean spoolie. Try to use it to lightly comb your lashes back into their original shape. Begin in the center of the lash line and make short, gentle upwards strokes.
This prevents lashes from getting sticky or clumping together and helps prevent lash curl from drooping. Brushing works to remove any sand, salt, or other debris that you may have acquired during your swim.
Build this into your everyday life, not just post-swim. Daily maintenance is key, particularly if you swim regularly or are prone to heavy sweating.
7. Understand Frequency vs. Longevity
Smart Swimming – Take the Pledge Swim Safe & Healthy. Travel often? You’ll likely find your lashes are not lasting as long between fills. Water – particularly chlorinated or salty water – can weaken the adhesive, and more frequent swimming puts you in the water more often.
If you swim often, consider reducing the number of days between refills. You’ll want to book a complete round before the active swim season kicks in. Monitor how your lashes feel and look after each swim.
Cleanse religiously, with oil- and alcohol-free cleansers, to keep the bond safe. Avoid waterproof mascara, which will weigh down extensions and be difficult to remove. Here’s how, with a little planning, you can have summer-ready lashes in no time.
Keep Your Lashes Looking Great Longer
Lash extensions are durable enough to withstand Toronto’s hectic lifestyle, even with frequent swimming or gym sessions. To ensure you’re getting the best from your lashes, just a few easy habits go a long way.
The most important part of maintenance is staying on top of a reliable care routine. First, use a lash-safe face and eye cleanser with a mild brush. Wash your lashes with care, taking the time to get any pool water or sunscreen off.
After swimming, gently pat your lash extensions dry with a soft towel – or better yet, air dry – never rub. This keeps the bond going strong and avoids breakage.
Maintenance is important as well. Regular bookings every 2-3 weeks are what keeps your lashes looking full and fresh. If you’re a frequent swimmer, tell your lash tech.
Swimming, particularly in chlorinated or salty waters, will cause them to break down more quickly. If you’re spending a lot of time in the pool, adjusting your fill schedule to every two weeks may be ideal. Swimming goggles provide an additional layer of protection.
Impact of Regular Swimming Habits
Regular swimming habits may increase lash loss. If you swim regularly, monitor your lashes closely. Pay attention to whether they appear sparser or to be fitting more loosely.
Whenever you can, use a water-resistant adhesive or sealant. These do help, but no product is completely waterproof. Cleaning your lashes right after a swim will prevent any chlorine or salt from sitting on your lashes, which can break down the glue over time.
Adjusting Fill Schedules for Swimmers
Frequent fills aren’t a luxury for swimmers; they’re a necessity. If your client swims often, lash loss can accelerate due to the exposure to water.
Open discussions with your lash artist allow you to establish an ideal fill schedule. That means your lashes stay looking great for as long as possible.
Recognizing Early Signs of Wear
Gaps, twisting, and clumping are indicators of early wear. Monthly self-checks are the best way to stay proactive. Tackling these at first sight with your lash technician avoids more serious concerns.
Essential Post-Swim Lash Care Routine
Swimming in Toronto – whether at a local gym pool or the city’s lakeside spots – can be a treat, but it does mean your lash extensions need extra care. Creating a routine that includes proper cleaning and conditioning will ensure your lashes stay beautiful longer, even after chlorinated or salt water.
Here’s our complete post-swim lash care routine to help you protect your lashes after every dip.
Why Cleansing After Swimming Matters
Cleansing your lashes post-swim should be more than a splash of water on your face. Chlorine from pool water, debris, and bacteria from lake water can all be harmful if not properly cleansed. They are very abrasive and will break down lash adhesive, as well as cause irritation.
Cleaning your lashes with a lash-safe formula removes these harsh chemicals and helps ensure nothing harmful comes in contact with your extensions. Making daily cleansing a part of your routine ensures that your lashes stay healthy and can help you avoid infections.
That’s why it’s a good idea to get into the habit of doing this every time you swim. Choose cleansers that are moisturizing and designed for lash extensions – they’ll care for your natural lashes and help your glue last longer.
Using a Lash-Safe Cleanser
Using a Lash-Safe Cleanser Look for a foaming cleanser that is specifically designed for lash extensions. These are gentle formulas and will not compromise the integrity of the adhesive.
Stay away from soaps that have oils or harmful chemicals in them, because these ingredients contribute to lashes falling out early. Be sure to read product directions carefully – many cleansers provide anti-inflammatory or antibacterial properties, perfect for daily swimmers!
Proper Drying Techniques Explained
Step 2 After washing your lashes, gently pat them dry with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid rubbing or tugging which can break the lash hairs or loosen the adhesive.
Another option is to allow your lashes to dry naturally. To give them a little more love, brush them lightly with a clean lash wand to help maintain their appearance.
Nourishing Lashes Post-Exposure
Apply a nourishing lash serum or oil post-swim Shiseido Eyelash Serum $38.00. This locks in moisture to counteract chemical exposure, replenishing lost hydration and ensuring lashes remain healthy.
Adding nourishment to lashes should become an essential step in your everyday beauty routine – especially for the daily swimmer.
When Your Lashes Need Professional Help
Despite the most diligent lash care, there are just some moments that call for a pro’s touch. In Toronto, where weather swings and daily routines can impact lash extensions, knowing when to get help is key for long-lasting results. Keep that communication door wide open, should something go awry with your lash transformation!
Frequent check-ins are the best way to ensure your lashes are in good shape and always on point.
Spotting Adhesive Breakdown Signs
As lash bonds begin to break down, you may observe lashes sagging, bending or shedding prematurely. Other times, the adhesive simply fails, perhaps it never cured properly, or the brand she picked was inappropriate for your lifestyle.
If you notice more than one extension grouped together or lashes falling out in clusters, this is a warning sign. Catching these problems before they happen can protect your natural lashes from breaking or falling out.
A professional can check the bond, suggest better aftercare, or switch to a more suitable adhesive, keeping your extensions secure and safe.
Identifying Irritation or Discomfort
If your eyes are showing redness, itchiness, or swelling around the lash line, then something is wrong. This may be an allergic reaction to the adhesive, a sign of incorrect application, or simply the result of bad aftercare.
Turning a blind eye to discomfort increases the likelihood of more serious complications, such as lash loss or even infections such as conjunctivitis. A professional lash tech can easily spot what is causing your irritation or discomfort.
From there, they can recommend an individualized solution, whether it’s a patch test, a cleaner formula or gentle removal.
Why Regular Tech Check-ins Help
Regular appointments allow your lash artist to spot issues before they develop. They’re great for untangling, adjusting styles, and providing specialized recommendations for at-home maintenance.
Communicating honestly about your lashes – what you like, what you don’t – ensures that you have the perfect match for your lifestyle. Having a pro weigh in ensures your lashes stay fresh, natural-looking and comfortable for the long haul.
Our View: Live Your Life, Love Your Lashes
At iBEAUTY CODE, we know how busy Toronto life gets, and we see many clients who want both beauty and an active lifestyle. Lash extensions need to work with your lifestyle – not prevent you from living it. With the proper product you can enjoy swimming, working out and spending time outdoors with confidence.
Spend lazy summer afternoons at Woodbine Beach, or walk three minutes to the community pool for a refreshing swim. You’ll still walk out with amazing lashes! Confidence starts with being comfortable in your skin…and your lashes.
Balancing Beauty and Active Lifestyles
The balance between beauty and living life to the fullest is important. Far too often, our clients will book lash fills or touch-ups a few days before going up north. People get ready for an afternoon at the pool with that level of forethought.
A wait of 24 to 48 hours after getting a new set allows the adhesive to cure completely, which means your lashes won’t budge. Others opt for a splash guard or shower visor to keep lashes away from water. A simple daily routine, like using a gentle lash cleanser and brushing with a clean lash wand, keeps lashes clean and tidy, even after laps or paddleboarding.
You don’t need to abandon the pool or the yoga mat, you just need a little modification to your routine.
Feeling Confident Poolside or Lakeside
As long as lashes are properly maintained you’ll never have to worry about looking disheveled, even post-swim, while feeling more confident and beautiful. No rubbing on your eyes and no oil-based products, as they remove the adhesive.
Make sure to rinse your lashes with fresh water and brush them through after a swim to avoid tangles and maintain a nice, fluffy look. Feel free to float and splash worry-free – your lashes are up for the adventure.
Trusting Quality Application and Advice
Choosing a skilled lash tech is key. At iBEAUTY CODE, we apply quality materials and offer quality advice based on your lifestyle. Routine appointments and customized treatment help keep your lashes longer, fuller and beautiful.
That’s how you live all the life, no matter if you’re at the lake or working out indoors!