09/08/2026
We ask our clients to remove their contact lenses before an eyelash extension treatment mainly for eye safety and comfort—not because the lash adhesive is going to melt or damage the contact lenses.
Contact lenses sit directly over the cornea and can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching it. During a lash appointment, the client’s eyes may remain closed for 1–2 hours or longer, which can contribute to dryness and irritation, especially when contact lenses are left in.
So, removing contact lenses is a precautionary safety measure during prolonged eye closure, not because the small amount of correctly applied lash adhesive is expected to come into direct contact with the lenses.
𝗙𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲𝘀:
Fashion or cosmetic contact lenses must be removed before an eyelash extension treatment. No exceptions.
𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲𝘀:
Prescription contact lenses may be acceptable in certain circumstances, particularly if the client has written confirmation that their optometrist or ophthalmologist has approved the lenses for extended or overnight wear.
However, as a lash artist, you should never make this medical decision yourself. The safest practice is still to recommend removal.
If the client chooses to keep medically approved prescription lenses in during the treatment, protect yourself and your business by documenting the situation and having the client sign an informed-consent/waiver form confirming that they understand the recommendation to remove their lenses and have chosen to proceed with them in.
𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿, a waiver documents informed consent, but it does not remove your professional duty of care or automatically protect you from liability.
