Do eyelash extensions ruin your natural lashes?
We all envy those women who have naturally thick and long lashes which can be fluttered at will. And there is a good reason as long lashes frame and accentuate the eyes. But while we envy those born with great lashes, and especially men, (what a waste), we are nervous about the simple solution of eyelash extensions.
Let’s put to death the common myth that lash extensions ruin your own lashes now.
They do not!
Rest assured, if applied correctly and properly, eyelash extensions are safe and do not ruin the health of your natural lashes. However, like any beauty treatment, it's up to you to take the prescribed precautions such as not rubbing your eyes or tugging at extensions which will cause lash loss and even damage your natural lashes.
The very thought of losing your precious lashes is enough to create fear and even a crisis.
Relax and take a breath.
The truth is, natural lashes fall out regularly. Lashes have a natural life cycle which includes these three phases: growth, transition and resting. At the end of the resting phase, the lash falls out and is replaced by a new lash. The way the body works is amazing.
So, when you get lash extensions, the cycle continues as normal. Because each lash extension is connected to a natural lash, your extensions fall out in the same cycle as your natural lashes. If a client asks, “Will my eyelashes grow back after eyelash extensions?” you can assure them that the lashes continue to grow even when extensions are on. They blend in with the natural lash growth cycle.
You can expect a natural lash loss of 3 – 5 lashes a day. And remember, the natural lash will shed with its extension as they are attached!
Problems only arise when an inexperienced lash technician applies lashes to more than one natural lash. Then you may spot clumps of lashes shedding, which is not the norm and is unnecessary. It is, therefore important to make sure you don’t let anyone except a lash professional near your eyelids.
Look after your lash extensions for long-lasting flutters
- Avoid steam and getting your lashes wet for the first 48 hours
- Don’t rub your eyes or use oil-based products and heavy creams around eyes. Don’t play with, pick and touch your lashes, no matter how tempting it is. Every time you touch them you are transferring natural oil and germs
- Don’t wear mascara as it's hard to remove and will cause the bond to break
- As with your hair, using a silk pillowcase will do the least damage to your lashes and extensions
- Gently brush your lashes with a clean spoolie brush when you wake up, after you shower and at the end of the day
- Clean them properly, at least a few times a week, with a foaming lash cleanser. Baby shampoo (not the conditioning type) in very small amounts works well
- Be sure to go to a certified lash artist who knows how to insert lashes correctly!
Published: 24th Jun 2021
