Your eyelashes play a vital role far beyond aesthetics, they protect your eyes by filtering dust and debris and reducing the evaporation of tears, keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable. For those seeking fuller, longer lashes via extensions or treatments, understanding the natural eyelash growth cycle is essential to maintaining lash health and achieving stunning results.
At The Lash Spa, the leading destination for glossed and lush eyelash extensions Gold Coast , we believe that knowledge empowers better lash care. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the eyelash growth cycle’s stages, their scientific basis, and tips to nurture your natural lashes effectively.
The Three Phases of the Eyelash Growth Cycle
Eyelashes grow and shed in a continuous cycle comprising three main phases: Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen. Unlike scalp hair, eyelash growth is much slower and more tightly regulated by their unique follicular biology.
1. Anagen (Growth) Phase
The anagen phase is the active growth stage, lasting between 30 to 45 days on average. During this time:
- The eyelash follicles are anchored deep in the dermis, connecting to capillary-rich dermal papillae that nourish new hair.
- Eyelashes grow approximately 0.12 to 0.14 millimetres per day.
- At any moment, about 35-40% of upper lashes and fewer lower lashes are in this active growth stage concurrently.
- Length of eyelashes in this phase determines final lash length, limited roughly to 10-12mm by the short duration of the phase and follicle-specific factors.
The rate and duration of anagen can vary due to genetics, age, health, and hormonal influences — some medications or health supplements can even extend this phase to promote longer lashes.
Understanding this phase is crucial for timing treatments and managing expectations around lash retention and regrowth cycles after extensions or lifts.
2. Catagen (Transition) Phase
Lasting about 2 to 3 weeks, the catagen phase represents the involution or regression stage where:
- Gene expression signals the follicle to shrink and detach from the dermal papilla.
- Lash growth ceases as the hair follicle prepares for rest.
- Eyelashes in catagen retain their length but are susceptible to shedding, especially if disturbed.
Poor application of extensions or excessive lash manipulation in this phase can exacerbate premature shedding.
3. Telogen (Resting) Phase
The final phase spans about 100 days (3-4 months) during which:
- Eyelashes rest and do not grow.
- Old lashes naturally shed at the end of this phase.
- New eyelashes begin to grow from the follicle, starting a fresh anagen phase and continuing the cycle.
At any given time roughly half the eyelashes are in telogen, explaining the regular daily loss of one to five lashes (a normal phenomenon).
Why Understanding the Lash Cycle Matters for Extensions
Since eyelash extensions attach to your natural lashes individually, the health and stage of each natural lash directly influence:
- How well an extension can be securely bonded
- The comfort and weight your lash line can bear
- The longevity and fullness appearance of the extensions
Incorrect technique, overloading extensions, or neglecting the lash cycle phases can lead to thinning or breakage. This is why The Lash Spa focuses on respecting the natural growth process by:
- Customising extension weight and length per lash health
- Advising clients on optimal regrowth and refill timings aligned with individual cycles
- Applying medical-grade adhesives in controlled environments optimising bond strength without harming follicles
Tips to Support Your Lash’s Natural Growth
- Select an Experienced Technician: Expert application minimises damage and promotes lash health.
- Gentle Care: Avoid rubbing, pulling, or harsh cleansers around your eyes.
- Use Quality Products: Only purchase recommended cleansers and avoid oil-based cosmetics that break down adhesives.
- Timely Refills: Schedule infills every 2-3 weeks to maintain fullness without stressing natural lashes.
- Nutrition Matters: Ensure a vitamin-rich diet supporting keratin production, including Vitamin D, E, and biotin.
How The Lash Spa Ensures Healthy Lash Extension Experiences
- We perform thorough consultations assessing natural lash condition and lifestyle.
- Maintain optimal salon humidity and temperature to guarantee adhesive performance.
- Employ premium Australian-made adhesives with low fumes for sensitive eyes.
- Provide comprehensive aftercare guidelines and support to clients.
- Offer a risk-free satisfaction guarantee reflecting our confidence in safe, stunning results.
Conclusion
Your natural eyelashes’ health is the foundation of beautiful, long-lasting eyelash extensions. By understanding the growth cycle, respecting each lash’s needs, and choosing skilled application and aftercare, you can enjoy lush, voluminous lashes while preserving the integrity of your natural lashes.
Book your personalised lash consultation with The Lash Spa Gold Coast today to experience expert eyelash extensions that prioritise your lash health as much as your style.
