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The eyelashes are hairs that grow on the edges of the eyelids. Implanted 2 millimeters deep in the delicate dermis of the eyelids, the eyelashes are categorized into upper and lower ones. These small hairs grow on the mobile eyelid and incline upwards. There are between 150 to 250 of them per eye, and they can be up to 8 millimeters long. The lower ones, on the other hand, incline downwards and are shorter, with about 80 per eye.
On average, a human eyelash does not live longer than 3 to 4 months.
Eyelashes constantly fall out and are simultaneously replaced by new ones. When a natural eyelash falls out, it may also take with it an artificial extension that has been glued on top. For many, it may seem that the extension is causing the natural eyelash to fall out, but I assure you this is just an impression, as eyelashes with extensions are larger, making them more noticeable. The natural eyelashes are so small that when they fall out, we usually don't notice them on the floor or in the sink.
Just like hair, the life cycle of eyelashes is divided into 3 phases and lasts approximately 60-90 days:
- Anagen - This is the active growth phase of the eyelashes, called anagen. The newly grown eyelashes are called “babylash”. The cells of the hair follicle rapidly reproduce to form the eyelash. This phase lasts about 2-3 weeks. Eyelashes in the growth phase should not be handled by the lashmaker, as they are too weak to support the weight of the extensions and the glue. The “baby” eyelashes will be ready for hair extensions when the client returns for touch-ups.
- Catagen - This is a transition phase during which the cells of the hair follicle separate from each other to form a cluster. In this latency phase, growth stops because the eyelashes are fully developed, and extensions can be applied to them. This phase lasts about 2-3 weeks.
- Telogen - This is the shedding phase and is the longest, lasting 2-3 months. The eyelashes are in a resting phase and begin to die slowly. The cells of the hair follicle separate, and the eyelashes fall out, being pushed out by the new eyelashes that are forming. The resting phase lasts about 60 days.
Therefore, the cycle of shedding and replacing natural eyelashes is completely normal and does not depend on the size of the eyelash extensions. Since each eyelash has its own cycle, there is no need to worry that they might all fall out at once. This is truly impossible.
Often, when we decide not to wear extensions anymore, the eye without them seems naked, and it is easy to think that our natural eyelashes have become weakened and that their number has decreased. This is just our impression. Trust me, it’s easy to get used to always having a fresh and neat face, and eyes well-defined by a dark outline.
So, dear clients and lashmakers, have you understood why when the client comes back for touch-ups, some extensions have moved away from the eyelid and others remain where they were glued?
Those that have moved were applied to the eyelashes during the anagen phase. Those that remained in place were undoubtedly applied to the eyelashes in the catagen phase when the natural eyelashes no longer grow. Extensions that were glued to natural eyelashes in the telogen phase have probably already fallen out.
In conclusion, it is important to understand the life cycle of the eyelashes for proper and safe use of extensions. This not only ensures a beautiful look but also the health of your natural eyelashes.
