How to Remove Eyelash Glue

Using Eye Makeup Remover

Choose the right eye makeup remover formula for your false lashes. Oil-based eye makeup removers are usually most effective in breaking down lash adhesive. However, if you plan to reuse your lashes, it's best to choose an oil-free formula. The oil residue left behind on the lashes can make it difficult for the glue to bind with the lash band in the future.

Dip a cotton swab in eye makeup remover. While most eye makeup removers are designed to be gentle, some can irritate the eyes. To avoid getting the remover in your eyes, it’s best to use a cotton swab so you can concentrate where it goes. Saturate the cotton, but make sure that it’s not dripping. Some makeup brands sell eyelash glue remover, which is specifically designed for getting rid of the adhesive. However, regular eye makeup remover can also remove the glue.

Run the swab along the lash band on your eyelid. When the cotton is saturated with the remover, gently run it along the seam where the false lashes rest against your eyelid. This will allow it to seep between the two and loosen the glue.

Allow the remover to sit for a few minutes on the eyelid. It can sometimes take a little while for the remover to fully dissolve the glue. Let it sit on the lash band for 1 to 3 minutes to ensure that the adhesive starts to lose its tackiness.

Pull the lashes off from the outer corner. When you can feel that the false lashes are starting to move easily, lay your finger flat against your eyelid. Pull up and out slightly to reduce any slack on the skin. Then grip the false lashes with your fingers or tweezers, and gently peel down and away from the brow.

Rub another swab along your lashes and the lash band again. Even after you take off the false lashes, there may still be some glue residue on your eyelid and the false lash band. Dip the other end of your cotton swab in the makeup remover, and rub it along your eyelid and the band to loosen any remaining glue.

Pull off any remaining glue from the lashes. After you apply more eye makeup remover, you should be able to use your fingers to peel off the remaining glue. If it won’t come loose, apply more remover and repeat the process.

Wipe away the excess remover from your skin and wash your face. There may be some residue left behind from the eye makeup remover even after you remove the glue. Use a cotton pad or makeup wipe to remove the excess, and then use your favorite facial wash to clean your skin completely. Bobbi Brown Bobbi Brown, Makeup Artist When removing eyelash glue, be extremely gentle and patient to avoid pulling out natural lashes. I recommend using an oil-free eye makeup remover on a cotton pad and holding it against the lash line for 30 seconds before gently wiping upward. Repeat as needed until all adhesive residue is gone. This gradual process is essential for lash health.

Dissolving the Glue with Oil

Dab a cotton ball with the oil of your choice. Oil often works well to break down eyelash glue. You can use coconut, almond, extra virgin, or baby oil. Saturate a cotton ball with the oil, but make sure that it’s not dripping. You can use a cotton swab in place of the ball if you prefer. Oils tend to be gentler than eye makeup removers, so this method may work well if you have sensitive eyes. The oil is also very moisturizing, so it works well if you have dry skin in your eye area. Oil removal may not be the best method if you have oily or acne-prone skin because the oil may clog your pores. It could also result in painful sties for people with oily skin types. Keep in mind that the oil may make it more difficult for the lash glue to bond with the lash band in the future. If you plan to reuse the lashes, you should use an alternative method to remove the glue.

Press the cotton ball to the lash band and hold it for a few minutes. To allow the oil to reach the glue and start to loosen it, hold the cotton ball against the lash band. Try to place it as close to the seam between your lid and the band as you can. Leave the ball pressed to your lid for 1 to 3 minutes or until you can feel the glue loosening.

Pull off the lashes from the outer corner. When you feel that the glue has loosened, use your fingers or a pair of tweezers to gently grab the outer corner of the false lashes. Take them off slowly and carefully to avoid pulling on your natural lashes.

Use a fresh cotton ball to remove any remaining glue. If there’s still glue residue on your eyelid or the false lash band, saturate a fresh cotton ball with the oil. Run the cotton along your lid and/or the band to remove the adhesive.

Wipe away the excess oil and wash your face. There may be still be some oil in your eye area after you remove the glue. Use a cotton pad or ball to gently wipe it away. Next, wash your face with your usual facial cleanser to thoroughly clean your face.

Steaming Off the Glue

Pour several cups of boiling water into a bowl. Add 3 to 4 cups (710 to 946 ml) of boiling water to a heat-safe bowl. If you have a facial steamer, you can substitute it for the bowl.

Drape a towel over your head and place your face above the bowl. The towel will trap the steam so it can help loosen the lash glue. Don’t get your face too close to the water though, or you may burn yourself. Keep it no closer than 18-inches (46-cm) from the water.

Steam your face for 3 to 5 minutes. To loosen the lash glue, you’ll need to steam it for about several minutes. It helps to set a timer, so you don’t expose your face to the steam for too long. Steaming your face to remove the glue has the added benefit of cleaning your pores.

Pull off the lashes from the outer corner. When the steam has sufficiently loosened the glue, gently pry the lashes up from the outside and peel them away. If there’s any remaining glue on your lid or the lash band, use your finger to gently rub it away.

Splash your face with cool water and follow up with a moisturizer. Your pores will be opened after you steam off the lash glue, so it's important to close them again. Wash your face as usual, then finish with a splash of cool water. Pat your skin dry with a towel, and apply your usual moisturizer to seal your skin.

Avoid using the steam method more than once a week. If you wear false lashes several times a week, you shouldn't steam them off every time. Steaming your face too often can cause redness, sensitivity, and breakouts. Alternate the steaming with one of the other removal methods to protect your skin.