How to Make Your Lash Extensions Last Longer: A Guide for Clients

Quick answer: To make lash extensions last longer, arrive with clean, make-up free lashes, keep them dry for the first 24 hours, wash them daily with a lash-safe cleanser, avoid oil-based products around the eyes, brush them gently and book infills every two to three weeks.

Why I know this first hand

You could have your lashes done by the best lash artist in the world, but without good care they will not last. I have battled retention issues with my own lashes. Sometimes they have not lasted 24 hours. We tried different techniques and adhesives, but the problem was not always the artist. It can be hormones, residue and daily habits.

Why clean lashes matter

Only a small amount of adhesive holds each extension to a natural lash. If the lash is coated in oil, make-up or residue, the adhesive cannot bond properly. Think of painting a dusty wall: the paint flakes off. For me, hormonal changes make my lashes produce more residue. The time I skipped a proper lash shampoo before my appointment, nearly every lash fell out within days.

Clean lashes are better for your eyes too. Tiny Demodex mites live naturally in lash follicles, and clinical references such as GPnotebook note they are found in 84% of people by the age of 60. When oil and debris build up around extensions, they have more to feed on, which can lead to itchy, inflamed eyelids. Our step by step guide to cleaning lash extensions shows you how to keep the lash line fresh.

Before your appointment

• Choose a lash tech whose style matches what you want. Read how to choose the right lash tech.
• Have a patch test and consultation.
• Stop wearing mascara at least 24 hours before.
• Arrive with clean lashes, free from make-up and oil, unless your tech cleans them for you.

Daily aftercare

• Keep them dry for the first 24 hours, or as your tech advises, while the adhesive fully sets.
• Wash them daily with a cleanser made for lash extensions. See our guide on how to clean lash extensions.
• Avoid oil-based products near your eyes, including cleansers, make-up removers and some skincare.
• Brush them gently each day with a clean spoolie.
• Do not rub or pull your lashes.
• Sleep on your back if you can, or use a silk pillowcase.
• Avoid mascara and lash curlers.

What affects retention

• Hormones, which can make lashes oilier.
• Heat and steam, from saunas, steam rooms and very hot showers.
• Swimming and heavy sweating.
• Your natural lash cycle. It is normal to lose around 1 to 5 natural lashes a day, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and an extension leaves with each one.

When to book infills

Most clients book infills every two to three weeks, so your set stays full.

When to call your lash tech

Contact your lash tech if you are losing far more lashes than usual, if lashes are clumping, or if your eyes feel sore, itchy or swollen. Any redness or swelling should be checked straight away.

Explore our lash extensions guide.

FAQs

How long should lash extensions last?

Each extension lasts until your natural lash sheds. With good care and infills every two to three weeks, your set stays full.

Can I get lash extensions wet?

Avoid water for the first 24 hours, then wash them daily with a lash-safe cleanser.

Why are my lash extensions falling out so fast?

Common causes are oily residue, oil-based products, rubbing, heat and hormones.

How many lashes is it normal to lose a day?

Around 1 to 5 natural lashes a day.