Eyelash extensions last for 3 to 4 weeks on average. Since they are attached to your natural eyelashes, your extension retention is directly related to the natural lash growth cycle and shedding cycle. The loss of a natural eyelash usually also means losing an extension.

In this article, I’ll cover the main factors that will affect your lash extension retention — This is what I discuss with my clients during their initial consultation:

• The eyelash growth cycle.
• Type of lash extensions.
• Proper aftercare.

The Eyelash Growth Cycle

Did you know you’re losing between 1-5 natural eyelashes every day?

Just like any hair on your body, your eyelashes go through what’s called “the growth cycle”.

The hair starts to grow longer and thicker, reaches its maximum length, stops growing, and then sheds.

The complete cycle of one eyelash is about 90 days ± 5 days depending on the genetics of the individual.

As you can see in the image above, the eyelash progressively grows throughout that period and eventually sheds.

There are 3 different phases of growth. In this image, I’ve indicated with numbers the different stages of growth:

1. Anagen – Growth Phase
2. Catagen – Transition Phase
3. Telogen – Resting Phase

All eyelashes are growing simultaneously with each strand in its own growth phase.

Therefore, right now, you have some lashes in each phase at the same time.

When you get lash extensions applied, the technician will be attaching the extension to your natural lashes that are in the catagen and telogen phases.

These are your mature lashes that can support the weight of the extension.

So, why is this so important?

Because, when your natural lash progresses through the cycle, it grows and eventually sheds.

This is why it’s normal for lash extensions to fall out at the same pace your natural eyelashes would.

With all that said, now you’re probably wondering:

The numbers I’m about to share are what I’ve consistently observed with my clients.

Expected retention rates for classic lashes:

• 75% extensions left after 2 weeks
• 55% extensions left after 3 weeks
• 35% extensions left after 4 weeks

For volume lashes, the retention rates are a little better because of the stronger adhesive bond (more on that in a second).

Having said that, you still can’t stop the motion of time and your natural lash will eventually shed no matter what.

Expected retention rates for volume lashes:

• 80% extensions left after 2 weeks
• 60% extensions left after 3 weeks
• 40% extensions after 4 weeks.

Since hybrid lashes are a mix of classic and volume lashes, you can expect the same retention rates as above, respectively.

Type of Lash Extensions

The second most important factor affecting how long your extensions will last is the technique used.

Did you know that volume lashes last longer than classic or hybrid lashes?

This is because the volume technique uses fans of very thin extensions in a ratio of one to many.

Because multiple extensions are attached to a single eyelash, you get a much larger surface area for the lash adhesive to bond with the natural lash.

I’ve created an image below to illustrate that concept.

As you can see, the fan on the right has a larger bonding surface than the classic extension on the left.

This means the lash adhesive is less likely to break down, and your extensions are less likely to fall out.

Proper Aftercare

Lastly, good aftercare is the often overlooked but ho so important to keep your extensions longer.

Here are the most impactful actions you can take are:

• Cleanse your lashes daily with a lash shampoo.
• Brush your lashes during 5-10 seconds per eye with a spoolie brush every morning.
• Avoid picking or rubbing your lashes.
• Avoid hot and humid places like a sauna, a swimming pool or a hot yoga gym.
• Avoid strong heat directed to your lashes.
• Avoid sleeping on your extensions – Try sleeping on your back if you can.
• Avoid products with strong solvents that would affect the lash glue such as glycols, PEG and plant-based oils (olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oils, etc.).
• Avoid mascara.
• Avoid using cotton products around your eyes such Q-tips, cotton balls or wipes since the lint can get caught in the extensions, and you might accidentally pull out your eyelashes.
• Do not use an eyelash curler.

Make Them Last!

I hope this article was helpful in understanding of how long you should expect your extensions to last.

And now I’d like to hear from you!

• As a stylist or a client, what is your typical retention rate?
• Are your extensions falling out too quickly?
• Do you get refills regularly?

Please let me know in the comments below!

~ Asako 🙂

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