If you love your eyelash extensions, it’s only natural to wonder if they can hold up in the pool—especially if you or your child are taking swim lessons. The good news? Yes, you can swim with eyelash extensions. But there are a few important things to know to help them last as long as possible and stay looking their best.
Eyelash extensions are applied using a semi-permanent adhesive that is designed to withstand water. Most lash technicians recommend waiting 24–48 hours after application before getting them wet to allow the adhesive to fully cure. After that, swimming is generally safe. However, frequent exposure to water—especially in pools—can shorten the lifespan of your extensions over time.
One of the biggest factors isn’t just water—it’s what’s in the water. Chlorine and other pool chemicals can gradually weaken the adhesive bond, causing extensions to shed faster than usual. This is where pool quality really matters. Swimming in a clean, well-maintained pool with properly balanced chemicals is much gentler on both your skin and your lashes compared to poorly maintained water.
At Making Waves Swim School, we take pride in our exceptionally clean, temperature-controlled pools. Our focus on water quality doesn’t just create a safer and more comfortable environment for learning—it also helps reduce unnecessary exposure to harsh or imbalanced chemicals that can affect things like sensitive skin, hair, and yes—even eyelash extensions.
If you’re planning to swim regularly with extensions, there are a few simple tips to help protect them:
Avoid rubbing your eyes or lashes while swimming
Gently pat your face dry instead of rubbing with a towel
Brush lashes with a clean spoolie once they’re dry
Consider wearing goggles if you’re doing frequent laps or submerging often
For children or beginners in swim lessons, goggles are often recommended anyway—not just for comfort, but to help them focus and build confidence in the water without irritation.
Ultimately, eyelash extensions shouldn’t stop you or your child from learning this life-saving skill. Swimming is too important to put on hold, and with the right care (and the right environment), you can enjoy both.
At Making Waves Swim School, our private, one-on-one lessons are designed to help swimmers feel comfortable, confident, and safe in the water—whether it’s their first time in the pool or they’re refining advanced skills. And with our warm, clean pool environments, you can feel good about every swim—extensions and all.