Can You Use a Tanning Bed, Pool, or Sauna After Lash Extensions?

After getting lash extensions, you want to keep them looking perfect for as long as possible, but what if you’re planning a trip to the tanning bed, the sauna, or the pool? How can that affect your extensions, and should you take special precautions? Let’s go through it step by step.

Can you use a tanning bed after lash extensions?

Some people think a tanning bed is strictly off-limits once you have lash extensions. But that’s a myth. Modern technology lets artists use UV-resistant adhesives and materials, so a tanning bed on its own doesn’t break down the adhesive or the lashes. That said, there are a few things to watch:

Heat. A tanning bed can get pretty hot, especially during a long session. High heat can weaken the adhesive and loosen the lashes’ hold.

Tanning products. If an oil-based cream gets on your lashes, it can soften the adhesive. Use tanning products carefully and steer clear of the eye area.

Don’t overheat. Long sessions and high temperatures aren’t ideal.

Bottom line: you can use a tanning bed with lash extensions.

Can you go to the sauna or steam room with lash extensions?

A sauna or steam room is a bigger risk for extensions because of the high heat, which can relax the curl of your extensions and straighten it out!

Yes, really, it can happen even when you suddenly open a hot oven and the blast of steam hits your face. Because extensions are literally baked onto special rods to set their curl, high heat can let that curl relax back out.

If you still want the sauna, try not to sit in the hot room above 176°F (80°C), go for extensions that are shorter and less curled to minimize the risk of them warping, and just be ready for the consequences.

Bottom line: you can use the sauna and steam room with lash extensions, but carefully.

Can you go to the pool with lash extensions?

You can go to the pool with lash extensions, but it takes some attention to detail to avoid damage and keep them looking good.

What’s important to keep in mind?

The first 48 hours after the service. Going to the pool right after the appointment is strongly discouraged, because the adhesive hasn’t fully cured yet, and exposure to water can significantly shorten your retention. But, contrary to a common misconception, this happens not from the moisture itself but from the mechanical action on the lashes: when you swim, the water constantly moves them, and since the adhesive at the bond point isn’t fully hardened inside yet, the lashes can come off.

The type of water. If the pool uses chlorine for disinfection, it can cause eye discomfort, but it has minimal effect on the adhesive itself. Ozonated or salt water is the better option, since it’s less harsh.

Aftercare once you’re out. After the pool, always rinse your face with water to wash off any chlorinated or salt water. Then gently pat your lashes with a soft towel and let them air-dry. Using a blow-dryer or anything with hot air is a no-go.

Following these simple guidelines will help extend your retention and keep your lashes looking flawless. Beauty takes a little care, but with some attention your lashes will make you happy for a long time! 😊