There is a huge misconception when it comes to lash health with eyelash extensions. Oftentimes, my clients will come into their first lash appointment with me and admit they’re a little nervous that their lashes will become damaged after the treatment. Don’t get me wrong - I completely understand why they’d feel this way! After all, don’t we all have that friend who had a “very bad experience” getting her lashes done before? Either the extensions were “irritating” or “itchy,” or else all her natural lashes fell out!
Well I’m here to explain the actual science of why eyelash extensions absolutey do not damage your natural lashes, or cause them to fall out:
1. Our natural lashes have a life cycle. Every few months, we shed our natural lashes like animals shed their fur. Our lashes reach their maximum length, and fall out only to immediately be replaced by a new lash. This cycle is constantly happening year in year out. So if you get your eyelash extensions done, and you notice some of your natural lashes falling out with them, that’s not damage, that’s natural!
P.S. lash sheds tend to only happen biyearly, so don’t worry! You probably won’t even notice.
2. Appropriate lengths and weights should be used at all times. Let’s say you have thin and short natural lashes. If you ask your lash artist for a super full and long set of lash extensions, a knowledgable lash artist should refuse to do so. Your natural lashes could only cope with a lighter and shorter set of lash extensions, so as to not cause damage. Incorrect lengths and weights for your lashes can cause damage! On the other hand, somebody with long thick natural lashes can get a heavier fuller set of extensions if they wish, as her natural lashes would allow for more weight and length without any damage. So long as your lash artist is qualified and skilled, she will ensure that no unsafe lengths or weights will be applied to your lashes.
3. Client aftercare is so important. A good and safe set of eyelash extensions is 50% a good job carried out by the lash artist, and 50% proper aftercare carried out by the client. If you want long lasting beautiful lashes, you need to ensure you’re taking good care of them. What will cause damage is pulling, tugging, or picking at your lash extensions! Not only are you picking off the lash extensions, you’re pulling out your natural lash with it! Pulling out a natural lash prematurely stunts it’s growth, and therefore leaving you with gaps in your lash line - leading to the misconception of “damage.” Keep your paws off the lashes and you can be sure there will be no damage!
4. Do your research before you go to a new lash artist. Don’t be fooled by “bargains” and “flash sales.” Be willing to pay the bit extra for a safe and beautiful set of lash extensions, as usually this means the lash artist uses higher quality products and is more skilled.
Moral of the story is, don’t let your friend’s one bad experience lead you to believe that lash extensions ruin your natural lashes. I have been applying lash extensions to some clients for up to 3 years now with no breaks, and at each appointment, their natural lashes are in perfect condition. Leave your misconception at the door. 👋🏼
