04 May The Ultimate Guide to Making Your Lash Extensions Last Longer

The Ultimate Guide to Making Your Lash Extensions Last Longer

I’ve been in the lash industry for over ten years. I’m a lash technician, educator, competition judge, and writer, and I’ve trained with some of the best in the world. I’ve seen it all—amazing retention, terrible retention, and everything in between.

Lash extensions are an investment, and if you want them to last full, fluffy, and beautiful, you need to take care of them properly. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, so I want to set the record straight.

Here’s how to get the most out of your lash extensions, avoid common mistakes, and keep your natural lashes healthy.

What Affects Lash Retention?

Lash retention isn’t just about how well they’re applied. Many factors, some you might not even think about can cause your extensions to shed faster than they should.

Your Natural Lash Health

Weak natural lashes struggle to hold extensions. If your natural lashes are fine or brittle, retention will be more difficult.

Hormones & Your Menstrual Cycle

Did you know your cycle affects your lashes? Right before and during your period, oil production increases, which makes lashes harder to bond with the glue. If you notice poor retention every few weeks, it could be due to hormonal changes.

If your lashes don’t seem to hold during certain times of the month, try scheduling your infills around ovulation instead of before or during your period.

Allergies, Colds, and Watery Eyes

Watery eyes are a big retention killer. If you suffer from hay fever, colds, or allergies, excess moisture can weaken the adhesive and cause premature shedding.

If this applies to you, use an antihistamine before your appointment and keep a cool compress handy to reduce eye irritation.

Medications & Health Conditions

Certain medications, including antibiotics, thyroid treatments, and hormonal birth control, can affect lash growth cycles and cause extensions to shed faster. Pregnancy can also impact retention due to increased oil production and hormone changes.

Stress, Crying & Emotional Upset

Crying affects your lashes more than you think. Sad tears contain different chemicals than normal tears and can actually weaken lash adhesive. If you’ve had a stressful week, it may impact your retention.

Sleeping on Your Face

If you sleep on your stomach or side, your pillow might be pressing against your lashes, causing them to fall out faster. A silk pillowcase can help reduce friction and keep your lashes intact longer.

Oily Skin & Skincare Products

Oil is one of the biggest enemies of lash extensions. Many everyday beauty products break down lash glue without you realizing it.

Products that can cause lash shedding include:

• Oil-based cleansers and moisturizers
• Makeup removers with glycerine or oils
• Cream eyeshadows
• Sunscreen (especially spray formulas)
• Setting sprays with alcohol or oil

If you have oily skin, using an oil-free lash cleanser daily is a must.

The Right Way to Clean Your Lash Extensions

Years ago, lash techs told clients to avoid water on their extensions. We now know this is completely wrong. If you don’t clean your lashes, you risk poor retention, dirt buildup, and even lash mites.

Yes, lash mites exist. They thrive on lash glue and oils, and if you notice a crusty buildup on your lashes, you may have them.

How to Properly Clean Your Lashes:

1. Use a specialist lash extension cleanser (not baby shampoo or micellar water).
2. Apply with a soft brush and gently scrub near the base of the lashes.
3. Rinse with fresh water or saline solution and avoid rubbing.
4. Clean every day, especially if you wear makeup or have oily skin.

If you have itchy or irritated eyes, it may be a sign of blepharitis. A hypochlorous acid eye cleanser can help prevent buildup and irritation.

Common Mistakes That Ruin Lash Retention

Even if you clean your lashes daily, some bad habits and hidden mistakes can cause premature shedding.

Touching, Picking & Rubbing

Rubbing your eyes can loosen extensions and weaken the adhesive. Picking at them can cause damage to your natural lashes.

Using Strip Lashes Over Extensions

Strip lash glue is too strong and can damage your natural lashes when removed.

Using Waterproof Mascara

Waterproof formulas are too heavy, and removing them can pull out your lash extensions.

Applying Oil-Based Products Near Your Eyes

Even if a product isn’t directly on your lashes, oil spreads. Always check ingredient labels for oils, glycerine, and silicones.

Not Drying Your Lashes Properly

After cleansing, let them air dry or use a clean, lint-free towel to pat them dry. Avoid cotton pads, as they can snag on the lashes.

How to Strengthen Your Natural Lashes

The healthier your natural lashes, the better your extensions will last. Supplements and a good diet can help improve lash growth.

Best Supplements for Lash Health:

• Biotin – Strengthens lashes and promotes growth
• Zinc – Reduces hair shedding and supports follicle health
• Magnesium – Helps lash follicles function properly
• Horsetail Extract – A natural source of silica for stronger lashes
• Vitamin C – Boosts collagen production, essential for lash growth

Eating a nutrient-rich diet and staying hydrated will help your lashes stay strong and hold extensions better.

Invest in Your Lashes & Your Aftercare

Lash technicians spend years perfecting their skills, training with experts, and using high-quality products to give you the best results. But lash care doesn’t stop in the salon—aftercare is just as important.

By following these simple tips, you’ll notice:

• Better retention
• Healthier natural lashes
• Fewer infill appointments

Taking care of your lashes means less fallout, longer-lasting extensions, and better overall results.

Need More Lash Advice?

If you have questions about lash care, retention, or the best products to use, feel free to reach out. Healthy lashes mean better results, longer-lasting extensions, and more confidence.

Looking to book your next lash appointment? Get in touch today!