If you've ever had eyelash extensions, you may have noticed that your natural lashes tend to shed more frequently. This is a natural process that occurs as part of the hair growth cycle. Understanding the lash-shedding process can help you better care for your extensions and ensure they last longer.
What is the Lash Shedding Process?
The lash-shedding process is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. Each individual eyelash goes through three stages of growth:
Anagen: This is the growth phase, during which the lash is actively growing. This phase lasts for around 30-45 days.
Catagen: This is the transition phase, during which the lash stops growing and the hair follicle begins to shrink. This phase lasts for around 2-3 weeks.
Telogen: This is the resting phase, during which the lash is fully grown but not actively growing. This phase lasts for around 100 days.
After the telogen phase, the lash falls out naturally and is replaced by a new lash. This process is known as exogen. Each individual lash is on its own growth cycle, which is why lashes shed at different times.
How Does Lash Shedding Affect Eyelash Extensions?
Eyelash extensions are attached to individual natural lashes using a semi-permanent adhesive. As the natural lash goes through its growth cycle, the extension is also affected. When the natural lash sheds, the extension falls off with it.
Because each individual lash is on its own growth cycle, extensions may shed at different times. This can result in a patchy or uneven look if not properly maintained.
How to Care for Your Eyelash Extensions During the Lash Shedding Process
Proper care of your eyelash extensions during the lash-shedding process can help prolong the life of your extensions and keep them looking their best.
Avoid pulling or tugging on your extensions: This can cause them to fall out prematurely.
Be gentle when washing your face: Use a gentle cleanser and avoid rubbing your eyes.
Avoid oil-based products: Oil can break down the adhesive and cause extensions to fall off more quickly.
Brush your lashes daily: This can help prevent tangling and ensure that your extensions are properly aligned.
Get regular touch-ups: As your natural lashes shed, your extensions will need to be replaced to maintain a full look.
The frequency of touch-ups will depend on how quickly your natural lashes shed. Most people will need touch-ups every 2-3 weeks to maintain a full look. However, if you have a faster lash shedding cycle, you may need touch-ups more frequently.
During a touch-up appointment, your lash technician will remove any extensions that have fallen out and replace them with new extensions. They may also add additional extensions to fill in any gaps.