Why Won’t My Lashes Last? Reasons Your Extensions Aren’t Sticking Around

Chelsey Smith • August 16, 2024

With the rise of beauty trends, eyelash extensions have quickly become a go-to for those looking to enhance their natural lashes. Their ability to add length, volume, and a touch of glamor has led to their increasing popularity. However, a common frustration among lash extension enthusiasts is the premature loss of their extensions. If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why aren’t my lashes lasting?”—you’re not alone. This post aims to uncover some peculiar reasons that might be affecting your lash extension retention and offer expert advice on how to make them last longer.

Understanding the Basics

Before we dig into the reasons affecting lash extension retention, it’s essential to understand the basics of your natural lash growth cycle. Eyelashes, like the hair on your head, grow in cycles. The average eyelash has a growth phase (Anagen), a transition phase (Catagen), and a resting phase (Telogen). This entire cycle can take anywhere from four to eleven weeks. Extensions are applied to your natural lashes, so as your natural lashes shed, the extensions fall out too. Knowing this, let's explore some unexpected factors that might be causing your extensions to disappear sooner than you’d like.

Unusual Factors Affecting Retention

1. Lifestyle Habits

Your daily routines might be playing a bigger role in lash loss than you think. For example, if you’re a regular at the gym, your sweat could be affecting the adhesive bond of your extensions. Sweat contains oils and salts that can weaken the glue. Similarly, frequent swimming, especially in chlorinated pools, can have a similar effect.

2. Skincare Products

Not all skincare products are lash-friendly. Oil-based cleansers and makeup removers can break down the adhesive, causing your lashes to fall out more quickly. Even certain moisturizers and serums can contain ingredients that aren’t ideal for lash extension wearers.

3. Environmental Factors

The environment you’re in can also play a role. If you live in a particularly humid area, it can affect the adhesive bond. Humidity can cause the glue to dry too quickly during the application process or weaken the bond over time. On the flip side, extremely dry environments can cause the adhesive to become brittle and break apart.

Expert Advice

1. Proper Cleaning

According to professional lash technicians, one of the most critical aspects of maintaining lash extensions is proper cleaning. Using a lash extension-friendly cleanser can help remove dirt, oil, and makeup residue without compromising the adhesive.

2. Regular Touch-Ups

Regular touch-ups can make a huge difference. Scheduling fill appointments every 2-3 weeks can help maintain fullness and replace any lashes that have shed naturally.

3. Be Gentle

Being gentle with your lashes can also extend their life. Avoid rubbing your eyes, and be cautious when applying eye makeup. Using a lash wand to brush your extensions daily can help keep them in good shape.


Eyelash extensions can be a fantastic way to enhance your natural beauty, but they do require some extra care and attention. From understanding your lash growth cycle to being mindful of your lifestyle habits and skincare products, there are several unusual factors that can affect how long your extensions last. 


By following the expert advice and learning from real-life experiences, you can enjoy fuller, longer-lasting lashes. Have any tips or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you! And if you're struggling with lash retention, don’t hesitate to seek help from our professional Hamilton lash extension technicians. 


For more personalized guidance, consider booking a consultation with our professional lash technician at Lash Mellow. We can provide tailored recommendations to help you get the most out of your lash extensions. Happy lashing!


Hamilton Lash Extensions
By Chelsey Smith October 23, 2024
Lash extensions have become a popular beauty trend in Hamilton, Ontario. By providing a way to achieve longer, fuller lashes without the need for mascara. But with so many styles available, how do you know which one is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of lash extensions and help you find the perfect style that suits your needs and preferences.
Hamilton Lash Extensions
By Chelsey Smith September 20, 2024
Have you noticed how everyone seems to have perfect lashes these days? Lash extensions are the secret behind those fluttery, luscious lashes you see on Instagram and your favorite celebs. This beauty trend has taken the world by storm, offering a semi-permanent solution to achieving fuller, longer lashes without the daily hassle of mascara or strip lashes. This comprehensive guide will answer all your frequently asked questions about lash extensions. From understanding what they are to how to choose the right lash artist, we've got you covered. We'll also dispel some common misconceptions and provide essential aftercare tips. Whether you're a lash extension newbie or looking to refine your knowledge, this blog post is for you. 
Share by: