Eyelash Shedding - Why you need fills for your Lash Extensions
The popularity of Eyelash Extensions is growing every year, with the allure of extensions only tampered by the maintenance.
With fills needed every 2-3 weeks, our lash clients often ask why they lose their extensions, sometimes within just a day or two of their appointments. It all comes down to “lash shedding”.
The Lash Cycle: A Natural Process
Lash extensions falling out is a natural part of the lash cycle and can be influenced by various factors. Understanding the lash cycle is key to understanding why lash extensions shed.
Your natural eyelash growth cycle consists of three phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase).
Anagen (Growth Phase)
This is the active growth phase where new lashes are formed. During this phase, lashes grow longer and thicker from the follicle. The duration of the anagen phase varies for each individual but typically lasts around 4-6 weeks for eyelashes.
Catagen (Transition Phase)
In this intermediate phase, the lash stops growing and the follicle shrinks. This phase lasts for a brief period of about 2-3 weeks.
Telogen (Resting Phase)
During the telogen phase, the lash rests and eventually falls out. This phase lasts around 4-9 weeks. It's normal for lashes to shed naturally during this phase as part of the renewal process.
Lash extensions are attached to the natural lashes during the anagen phase, which is when the lashes are longest and strongest. However, as the natural lash progresses through the lash cycle, it eventually reaches the telogen phase, where it sheds naturally. When the natural lash sheds, it takes the attached lash extension with it.
Other factors that affect lash extension retention:
Lifestyle and Habits: Certain lifestyle factors, such as rubbing or pulling on the lashes, excessive exposure to water, steam, or oil-based products, and sleeping on the face, can accelerate the shedding of lash extensions.
Poor Adhesive Quality or Application: If lash extensions are not applied properly or if low-quality adhesive is used, the extensions may not adhere securely to the natural lashes, leading to premature shedding.
Aftercare Practices: Proper aftercare is essential for maintaining lash extensions and prolonging their lifespan. Failure to cleanse the lashes regularly, using oil-based products around the eyes, or using mechanical lash curlers can contribute to premature shedding.
Overall, while it's normal for lash extensions to shed as part of the natural lash cycle, proper application, aftercare, and maintenance can help minimize shedding and prolong the lifespan of lash extensions. Regular fills every 2-3 weeks can also help maintain the fullness and appearance of lash extensions as natural lashes shed and new ones grow in.