Help! Why are my eyelash extensions falling out?

There’s nothing worse than waking up the morning after your lash appointment and seeing 70% off your brand-new lashes on your pillow. It sucks, to say the least. As lash technicians (and lash lovers ourselves), we know how much lashes mean to our clients. We also know how frustrating it is when lash extensions don’t last their full course.

Whilst we are all aware lash extensions aren’t permanent, they should still last between 2-4 weeks. Our natural lash cycles (the anagen, catagen, and telogen stages) may affect lash retention and will influence the amount of time between lash appointments. But, if you find your lashes fall out much earlier than they’re meant to, keep reading! We have identified 3 reasons why your eyelashes are falling out.

Reason #1 – Improper Eyelash Extension Maintenance

A common culprit of poor lash retention is maintenance routines or lack of them. Upon your first lash appointment, your lash technician will run you through basic eyelash extension care. These tips often include:

· Avoid oil-based products (serums and face oils) and wearing mascara

· Don’t sleep on your stomach/face down

· Keep your eyelashes dry and away from water for at least 24 hours

· Don't pick, rub, or touch your lashes!

Clients sometimes forget these tips and resume their usual skincare routines. So… just a reminder, do not steam your face, go for a facial or wear mascara after your appointment! You will loosen eyelash glue and cause your eyelash extensions to fall out!

The solution: Can't give up mascara or eye makeup? Use eyelash extension approved products to clean and maintain your extensions. Our favourite products are:

iLash Collective Face and Eye Foaming Cleanser

· Water-Based Eyeliner and Mascara

· Eyelash Foaming Shampoo

· Gel Makeup Cleanser

Each of these products are eyelash extension approved and will keep your extensions looking fierce and healthy.

Reason #2 – Poor Application

This one ain’t your fault but it is something you should know… sometimes the reason your eyelashes are falling out comes down to your lash tech. Awkies. Here are a few major red flags to look out for in your next lash appointment:

1. They rush the application.

2. They don’t check your eyelashes are clean before the application.

3. Your eyelashes feel too heavy for your eyes.

4. Chunks of eyelash extensions fall out at a time

While mistakes do happen, if you find the above occurring far too often, it’s time to find a new lash artist.

The solution: Go to a reputable eyelash technician or salon, like Eye Envy Co (check out our reviews here!). And please have a chat with your lash tech about your eyelashes and the extensions they recommend for your eyelashes. Don’t be afraid to ask about lash thickness and length. You deserve to know about the products glued to your face!

Reason #3 – Medication and Skin Conditions

Sometimes our lashes fall out because of medications we’re on, or conditions we might have. Trichotillomania, alopecia, thyroid conditions and medications, and blepharitis commonly affect our natural lash retention, as well as our extensions. Not to mention, oily skin will interfere with eyelash glue and result in eyelashes extensions falling out.

The solution: If your condition or medication is ongoing and something you experience daily, eyelash extensions may not be the best option for you. However, if your eyelash and general hair retention is a significant concern for you, we suggest seeking advice from a medical professional about your medication and conditions.

There are plenty of reasons why your eyelash extensions are falling out and it is important to know how to manage these issues yourself. It is also advised for you to talk to your lash technician so they can troubleshoot the problem too. It's their job, remember! Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions and shop around before choosing your lash technician. At the end of the day, the person gluing eyelashes to your eyes should be qualified and reputable. If you’re not comfortable with your current lash technician, find someone else!

If you have any questions about our eyelashes and lash application, feel free to send us an email at eyeenvyco@gmail.com or send us a DM on Instagram!