When should you stop eyelash extensions?

Long-term use of synthetic eyelashes entails risks, especially when it comes to the condition of natural eyelashes, since they suffer trauma to the eyelashes as they shorten, thin and weaken and, in some cases, the total loss of natural eyelashes may occur. There is also the threat of eye health problems, such as conjunctivitis, and the long-term problem of bletaritis, which could mean that the future use of eyelash extensions is no longer being considered. To ensure that eyelashes recover naturally after the constant use of eyelash extensions, eyelash extensions should be removed every six to eight months to allow the eyelid line to be thoroughly cleaned after months of makeup and bacteria build-up, and also to allow natural lashes to grow and thicken. We recommend taking a minimum two-month break with eyelash extensions to allow your lashes to recover naturally and grow back fully.

If your lashes fall out naturally, they'll grow back over time and, with a little help from eyelash serums, even faster. However, eyelash extensions spoil the whole cycle. All those chemicals that seep into the follicles destroy natural lashes, and constant fillers minimize their growth. Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent fibers that adhere to natural lashes to make the fringe of the eyelashes look longer, fuller and darker.

Individual eyelash extensions are applied to each of the individual natural lashes (one extension per natural eyelash) with a semi-permanent glue. But with that said, you can do everything right and still find that eyelash extensions cause your natural lashes to break. Next, two eyelash experts, a dermatologist and a plastic surgeon discuss everything you need to know about eyelash extensions, from finding the right eyelash artist to costs, risks and everything in between. Ramy Gafni, famous makeup and eyebrow guru, advises opting for extensions that align with the shape of existing lashes, rather than extra long and spectacular lashes.

When it comes to safety, dermatologists compare eyelash extensions to acrylic nails; they're not necessarily good for you, but they're not likely to cause serious health problems, so you may decide that the aesthetics of the extensions outweigh potential side effects (which usually include irritation, infection, and allergic reactions). The cost of eyelash extensions can vary greatly depending on your location, the eyelash technician, the type of eyelashes you use, and the style you want. And try taking breaks where you let your natural lashes do their thing (and use an eyelash conditioning serum to help them recover their health). Natural lashes fall out every 45 to 60 days, meaning that some extensions can last up to 2 months.

If you end up curling your lashes with an eyelash curler, Richardson recommends the type that warms your lashes like a miniature curling iron, such as the Envious Lashes heated eyelash curler. Another factor related to the problem that some may have with the natural weakening of the eyelashes after the use of eyelash extensions may be related to the size and length of the extension, since the heavier the glue-laden extension on natural eyelashes, the more likely it is that the hair will break, so it is advisable to consult the expert before ordering the longest and thickest eyelash extensions available, since it is possible that eyelashes in poor condition cannot withstand them for long periods of time.

Elizabeth Leen
Elizabeth Leen

Alcohol fan. Lifelong organizer. Subtly charming music geek. General social media specialist. Extreme tv geek.