Everybody loves lash extensions! They do much more than a simple mascara; the eyes look more open and they bring some youthfulness to a face.
But they do have their flaws – they are not really low-maintenance and they don’t last for too long. Let’s discuss further and see how long they really last and how to make lash extensions last longer.
How Long Do Lash Extensions Last?
The average lifespan of eyelash extensions is up to 8 weeks. But, that doesn’t mean they will look their best all the time. You will lose approximately half of your lash extensions after a month.
Why does that happen? Eyelash extensions are glued to your natural lashes and as the natural lashes grow, the extensions grow out with them. Eventually, they fall off with natural lashes.
Natural lashes follow the 8-week growth cycle and shed. At the moment of the application of the extensions, not all the natural lashes are at the same moment of the cycle – some are new, some are in the middle of the cycle, and some are almost grown out.
So the extensions will start falling off, and half will be gone by week 4, while all of them are supposed to fall out by week 8.
How to Make Lash Extensions Last Longer?
Even though you can’t really make the extensions stay for longer than they are supposed to, there are some tricks and tips to make the most of them and prevent premature shedding. Yes, lash extensions can start falling off much sooner if you neglect them. As we said above, they are not really low maintenance.
So here’s how to make lash extensions last longer.
Regular Lash Fills
Ok, this is something you need to do, otherwise, all of your extensions are gone after 6-8 weeks.
Lash fills, or infills as some people call them, are mandatory if you want to prolong the lifespan of your eyelash extensions. The frequency of lash fills depends on different factors, because some people will lose lashes faster than others. Some lash technicians will advise you to book lash fill after 2-3 weeks, while others say it’s ok to come after 3-4 weeks.
They are pretty unanimous about one thing – you need to have at least 40% of the remaining lash extensions for the lash fill. Otherwise, it’s considered a full set and you’ll probably have to pay the full price.
Image source: Instagram @aylacheree
Proper Aftercare
For 48h after the application, you need to show your extensions some special care.
That means that you should keep them completely dry and avoid steam (don’t go to a sauna, swimming and be careful if you cook). Avoid touching and pulling the lashes. Also, try to sleep on your back. Don’t use mascara, lash curler, or any products on your lashes.
Regular Brushing
This is an easy task, but clients tend to forget it – brushing your eyelash extensions will prevent tangling and make them last at least a bit longer. Also, brushing will remove dust, dirt and bacteria as well as oils that accumulate on the lashes during the day.
Just make sure you do this properly. Don’t start from the base – that way you risk pulling the extensions and breaking the glue bond – start from the middle and go toward the tip of the lashes. Also, make sure you always use a clean brush.
Regular Cleaning
Yes, eyelash extensions need to be washed. Your lash technician is supposed to tell you how often to clean your eyelash extensions. Some will advise you to wash them twice a week, others will say every day. The most common rule is to wash your classic lash extensions every other day, and volume, hybrid or wispy lashes every day.
Wash your eyelash extensions carefully with specially formulated products and a clean brush. Make sure you dry them afterward.
Learn more about washing eyelash extensions in this article.
Image source: Instagram @layslashesbeauty
Additional Maintenance Tips
How soon your eyelash extensions will fall out depends on different factors. There are some factors that can cause them to fall off too soon, such as improper application and poor quality materials, improper aftercare and maintenance, weather conditions etc.
Here are some additional tips on how to make lash extensions last longer:
- Avoid oil-based products when you remove your makeup. They can affect the lash glue and cause premature shedding.
- Don’t use mascara. Some lash techs say it’s ok if you have classic lash extensions, but should be avoided with volume lashes.
- Sleep on your back.
- Brush and wash your lash extensions regularly.
- Get regular infills.
Following the aftercare and maintenance tips will prolong the life expectancy of your lash extensions, but it will also prevent the damage of your natural lashes.
Image source: Instagram @exquisite_hb
Conclusion
Eyelash extensions are a significant enhancement, but they can be a nuisance because you need to pay a visit to the lash tech every 2-3 weeks. Follow these tips to make the most of your eyelash extensions and prolong the time between the lash fill sessions.
Cover image source: Freepik
