The life cycle of a natural eyelash has three main phases:
- Anagen (Growth Phase): This is when the lash is actively growing, and it typically lasts for 30-45 days. About 40% of your upper lashes are in this phase at any given time. Eyelash extensions applied to lashes in this phase tend to have the best retention as they will grow out with the natural lash.
- Catagen (Transition Phase): In this phase, the lash reaches its full length, and the hair follicle starts to shrink. The lash stops growing and detaches from the blood supply. This phase lasts for about 2-3 weeks.
- Telogen (Resting/Shedding Phase): This is the final phase, lasting around 3-4 months. During this time, the lash is fully grown but is resting in the follicle. A new lash begins to grow beneath it, eventually pushing the old lash out. It's normal for a few lashes to shed naturally during this phase.
How this relates to eyelash extensions:
Eyelash extensions are glued to your individual natural eyelashes. Because your natural lashes are always in different stages of this cycle, it's normal for some extensions to fall out along with your natural lashes as they reach the end of their Telogen phase and shed.
The typical lifespan of eyelash extensions is about 6 to 8 weeks, which roughly aligns with the entire natural lash cycle. However, to maintain a full look, fills are recommended every 2-3 weeks to replace the extensions that have shed with your natural lashes that have completed their cycle.
Understanding the natural lash cycle helps to manage expectations about eyelash extension retention and the need for regular maintenance.