How Long Do Eyelash Extensions Last? Experts Explain

Have you ever walked by someone with lashes so beautiful that you couldn’t tell if it was just mascara or if they were wearing fake lashes? That’s exactly the feeling most clients want when they go in for a set of fake lashes. eyelash extensions. Your lashes-but-what’s-better should promised (whether you want natural or glamorous!). But once you invest in a new coat, how long will it last?

According to experts, the answer depends on how well you take care of them, so you get the most out of your investment (because yes, they do). To be an investment), we have all the tips and tricks to help you get the most out of them.

Typical lifespan of eyelash extensions

So, how long? DO Do eyelash extensions last? The average lifespan of eyelash extensions is four to six weeks. The exact number can vary and depends on “your natural lash growth cycle and how well you care for them,” according to Dionne Phillips, celebrity lash expert, aesthetician, and founder of D’Lashes. Gwendolyn Ogura, senior lash artist at Hairy Little Things, adds, “It takes about 90 days for all of your natural lashes to fall out and grow back.”

As for how often you need to get touch-ups, again, that’s up to you! If you want to maintain your extensions, you don’t need to get a full-on touch-up every time. Instead, our experts recommend getting them every two to three weeks. “When your natural lashes fall out, your extensions will fall out with them,” says Amanda Robinson, founder of Iris+West Lash Co. Style“During the filling process, any hair extensions that have fallen out will be replaced and any hair extensions that have grown out will also be removed and replaced.”

However, this period can be shortened significantly if you do not take proper care of your lashes.

Factors affecting the lifespan of eyelash extensions

Plucking or pulling eyelashes

If you find yourself touching, rubbing, plucking, or pulling at your lashes, don’t be surprised if the life you were promised is significantly reduced. Robinson, founder of Iris+West Lash Co., says “plucking can damage your natural lashes and make them look sparse,” which is something we’re willing to bet you want to avoid at all costs. Ogura agrees. “Plucking or pulling at extensions can prematurely pull out the natural lashes they’re attached to,” Ogura says. “And we can’t re-apply the extensions until they grow back (which can take up to three months).”

Waterproof makeup

While we love waterproof makeup (especially waterproof mascara because it lifts our lashes), which is something you’ll probably want to avoid if you have eyelash extensions. Robinson tells us about using waterproof cosmetics multiple times: “The buildup around your extensions can cause problems with hold.” Using waterproof mascara multiple times isn’t good for anyone (whether you have natural lashes or extensions), and according to Ogura, “the product can build up in your tear ducts and cause dry eyes.”

Oil based products

Another factor that can affect the longevity of your extensions is the use of oil-based products. “Using oil-based makeup removers, cleansers, or even heavy facial lotions can break down the adhesive that bonds the extensions to your natural lashes, causing them to fall out prematurely,” says Phillips.

Extend the life of eyelash extensions

Brush, Brush, Brush

Just like you would brush the hair on your head, you need to brush your eyelash extensions every day to avoid them becoming misshapen and tangled. You can buy a pack of mascara spoolies online; they’re great to keep in your bag and on your vanity. Brushing your lashes “ensures that all the natural oils that build up at the base of your extensions are brushed toward the tips,” says Ogura. “If these oils sit at the base of the extensions for too long, they will eat away at the adhesive and cause premature lash loss.”

Avoid using Mascara

This should be obvious, but Please Avoid mascara. Imagine the pain of removing it—it will pull on your extensions, shortening their lifespan. Every once in a while is fine—just make sure you follow Phillips’ advice and use a “water-based formula specifically designed for eyelash extensions.”

Clean your eyelashes

Cleaning your lashes every day is important not only for hygiene, but also for the longevity of your extensions. “We don’t want to have skin, eyelid oils, or product buildup around the base of the extensions,” says Robinson. “It’s important to clean your lashes and eye area daily with a cleanser formulated for your lashes and eye area.”

Signs of worn eyelash extensions

Thin, curly, loose or falling lashes

One obvious sign that your extensions may need a touch-up is if they’re sparse, kinky, or falling out. “If you notice gaps or thin areas in your lash line, that’s a sign that your extensions are falling out and you may need a touch-up,” says Phillips. “During the touch-up, the lash artist will remove those lashes and replace them with new ones at the base of your natural lashes, where they belong,” adds Robinson.

Painful or itchy eyes

If your eyes are sore or itchy, you’re dealing with poor hygiene, poor application, or an allergic reaction. “Pain, itching, or pulling are all signs of bad extensions,” says Ogura. “Lash extensions should never hurt. I always ask my clients at the end of the service if they feel anything because they shouldn’t feel anything!” She adds that recurring eye infections can also be the result of poor application and/or poor hygiene practices.

While eyelash extensions aren’t for everyone, we think they’re a great beauty treatment for anyone looking to upgrade their everyday look. And as for the burning question, “How long do eyelash extensions last?” four to six weeks is ideal, but expect to visit the salon every two to three weeks. Just remember—as long as you take care of your lashes properly and go to a reputable technician, your extensions should last a long time!