Eyelash Extension Retention: What You Need to Know

Imagine getting gorgeous lash extensions, and marvelling at how natural and full they look. However, how long will they last?

Lash extensions retention is how long your extensions will last on your natural lash before they shed or fall off. Keep in mind that each person has a different hair growth cycle so there’s no set amount of time when it comes to determining how long each lash should last. Aside from the hair growth, there are other factors that can influence the length of your eyelash extensions retention.

Don’t worry, though—I’m here to guide you through all things lashes. In this article, I’ll help you get a better understanding of what lash retention is, the numerous factors that could affect it, and how to help your lash extensions stay on for longer.

What Affects Lash Extensions Retention?

Change in Seasons

Like hair and nails, lashes may go through seasonal hair shedding. A change in climate during autumn and spring can cause your lashes to become brittle, which then causes them to shed sooner.

While this effect can’t be prevented, the good news is this is only temporary. Your growth cycles will eventually go back to normal. One other thing you could do during this period, aside from being extra gentle with your extensions, is to invest in and use a lash serum such as Revive7.

Hormones or skin type

Your hormones play a role in lash retention, too. If you have overly sebaceous glands, the oil can cause the adhesive to break down faster. Use blotting paper on your eyelid and avoid applying makeup around your eye area to remedy the situation. Additionally, pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid medication may also cause lash retention issues.

Medications

Medications, such as those for the thyroid, may change the environment of your lash area. This could lead to you having overly oily, dry, or brittle lashes.

What to Avoid

Putting makeup on your eye area

The wrong makeup can spell disaster for lash retention. Mascaras and eyeliners may have compounds in them that can cause your lashes to clump together or the adhesive to soften.

Not Thoroughly Cleansing Your Lashes

It’s best to clean your lashes regularly (after the initial 24 hours) using a cleanser that’s safe for extensions at least every 2-3 days. Not thoroughly cleansing your lashes can cause oil, makeup, or debris build-up which can lead to inflammation and irritation. Not cleansing can also cause your lashes to stick together at the base—which is not a pretty sight to see. This sticking actually keeps your natural lashes from growing through, and if you come for infills, chances are the new lashes won’t stick properly!

When you leave your first appointment at The Lash Spa we’ll give you a gift bag that contains a bottle of our foaming lash wash. Just massage it into damp lashes every few days, then rinse and dry them (just don’t do it for the first 24 hours after your appointment).

Also, make sure that you regularly brush your lashes with a spoolie to ensure that your lashes will grow in the right direction. This also prevents your lashes from crossing over as they grow. Just be careful not to overdo it, though, and take care not to brush them too roughly. Doing so runs the risk of prematurely pulling out your natural lashes.

Strenuous exercise

You might want to take a break from your regular strenuous exercise routine, especially during the first 24 hours after your lash application. Strenuous exercise leads to sweat, which can lead to lash loss.

For worry-free eyelash extensions retention, consult with professionals you can trust. At the Lash Spa, our master lash techs, who have thousands of hours of experience under their belt, will give you a full lash consultation. We’ll make sure you feel fabulous with our high-quality lash service.