Introduction
Proper maintenance of DIY lashes extends their life and preserves their beauty, making regular cleaning a crucial aspect of lash care. For enthusiasts who prefer the customisation and personal touch of DIY lashes, particularly those made from PBT fibres, understanding the correct cleaning process is essential. This guide will walk you through a detailed, step-by-step process to ensure your lashes remain in pristine condition without risking damage.
The delicacy of PBT fibres means they require special attention during cleaning. Incorrect cleaning methods can shorten the lifespan of your lashes or cause them to lose their shape and lustre. By following the prescribed steps and timings, you can ensure that your lashes stay as fluttery and luscious as they were on the first day.
Preparing for Cleaning
Before diving into the cleaning process, it is important to have all the necessary materials at hand. You will need 90% isopropyl alcohol, a small jar with a lid, several q-tips, and a paper towel. Make sure that the jar is clean and dry before use to avoid any contamination or residue that could transfer to the lashes.
Preparing your workspace is just as crucial. Choose a well-lit area and lay out your materials neatly. This not only helps in making the cleaning process smoother but also ensures that you don’t lose any lashes during the process. Remember, organisation is key to handling delicate DIY lash fibres without causing them any stress or damage.
Step 1: Placement of Lashes in the Jar
Carefully placing your lashes inside the jar is the first practical step in the cleaning process. Ensure that the lashes are neatly arranged and not clumped together; this prevents them from tangling or sticking to each other once the cleaning solution is added. The positioning should allow each lash to come into contact with the isopropyl alcohol, ensuring an even and thorough cleaning.
It's advisable to handle the lashes with tweezers rather than with bare fingers. This minimises the transfer of oils and dirt from your hands to the lashes. Moreover, using tweezers can help in adjusting the lashes inside the jar more precisely, which is crucial for effective cleaning.
Step 2: Adding Isopropyl Alcohol
Pouring the right amount of isopropyl alcohol into the jar is critical. The alcohol should be enough to fully submerge the lashes but not so much that it causes excessive vapour and wastage. Typically, a few millilitres will suffice, depending on the size of the jar and the volume of lashes being cleaned.
90% isopropyl alcohol is recommended because of its effectiveness in breaking down oils and adhesives without being overly harsh on the PBT fibres. Pour carefully to avoid splashes, and once done, secure the lid to prevent any spillage and to allow the fumes to help break down stubborn residues.
Step 3: Soaking the Lashes
The soaking time is crucial; five minutes is the magic number for PBT fibres. Exceeding this time can lead to irreversible damage such as brittleness or loss of curl. Setting a timer is a practical step to ensure precision. During this time, the alcohol works to dissolve makeup residue, adhesives, and proteins from the lashes.
As they soak, occasionally shake the jar gently to agitate the lashes within the solution. This helps in dislodging any particles stuck in the fibres, ensuring a comprehensive clean. However, be gentle to avoid causing any mechanical damage to the lashes.
Step 4: Removing Lashes from the Jar
Once the timer goes off, remove the lashes carefully from the jar using tweezers. Lay them out on a paper towel in a single layer, ensuring they are straight and not overlapping. This arrangement is crucial for effective drying and to prevent them from sticking together.
Handle each lash delicately to avoid pulling or stretching, which can deform the fibres. If any lashes have tangled, use a second set of tweezers to gently separate them before they dry.
Step 5: Cleaning Residue with a Q-tip
After laying out the lashes, take a q-tip and dip it into some fresh isopropyl alcohol. Gently roll the q-tip over each lash, focusing on areas where glue or makeup residue is visible. This step requires a delicate touch to ensure that you don’t tug at the fibres, which can cause them to come loose from the strip or band.
Repeat this process with a clean q-tip as necessary. It’s important to ensure that all residues are removed to prevent build-up that can compromise the lash's appearance and hygiene. This step also helps in restoring the original lustre and clarity of the lashes.
Step 6: Drying the Lashes
Patience is key in the drying step. Allow the lashes to air dry on the paper towel, avoiding the use of artificial heat such as hair dryers, as this can warp or melt the PBT fibres.
Depending on the ambient temperature and humidity, drying can take several hours. It's essential to ensure that the lashes are completely dry before storage or use.
During drying, occasionally check on the lashes and gently adjust them with tweezers to ensure they maintain their shape. If any fibres stick out oddly, now is the time to gently reposition them with minimal contact.
Step 7: Fluffing the Lashes
Once dry, use a clean spoolie to gently brush through the lashes. This step is crucial for fluffing them up to their original volume and ensuring that they are free of any leftover particles. Brush from the band outwards, mimicking the natural direction of lash growth.
This fluffing not only helps in reshaping the lashes after the rigours of cleaning but also revitalizes them, making them look fresh and new. It’s a simple yet effective step that enhances the overall finish and readiness of the lashes for reuse.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your DIY lashes isn’t just about regular cleaning; it also involves proper storage and careful handling. Always store your cleaned lashes in a dry, dust-free container to prevent contamination. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or high humidity, as these conditions can degrade the quality of the PBT fibres.
Regular maintenance checks are advised. Inspect your lashes for signs of wear and tear or residual build-up, and clean them accordingly. With proper care, your DIY lashes can last multiple uses, making them a sustainable and cost-effective option in your beauty regime.
Conclusion
Cleaning your DIY lashes is a meticulous but essential process to ensure their longevity and performance. By following these steps, you ensure that your lashes remain hygienic, beautiful, and ready for your next glamorous look. Regular upkeep not only saves money in the long run but also allows you to enjoy the full potential of your DIY lash creations.