How Long Do Eyelash Extensions Last and Are They Worth It?

Eyelash extensions can last about four to six weeks depending on your lashes’ natural life cycle and how well you care for them. Your lash tech, nighttime routine, and even your makeup can impact your lash extensions’ longevity.

Anyone who’s gotten lash extensions knows that they’re quite an investment. You need to spend a couple hours at the appointment itself and return to the salon about every two weeks or so for refills. Not to mention the cost for all of those appointments. Needless to say, anything you can do to make your lash extensions last longer is worth looking into.

That’s why we’re covering ways you can make your lashes last longer and answering the all-important question, “Are lash extensions worth it?” Take a look at our guide below to learn what affects how long eyelash extensions last and what steps you need to take for even longer lasting lashes.

How can I make eyelash extensions last longer?

You can make your eyelash extensions last longer by picking a reputable lash tech, coming in with a clean face, keeping oil-based products away from your lashes, and a few other things that keep them from straggling off your lash line. We’ll go over some tips below to help you prolong your lash extensions.

Before your appointment

Doing your research on your lash tech and the service itself are the first steps to getting long-lasting extensions. Here are a few steps to take before you step into the salon:

• Research your lash artist and salon before your appointment to verify that they’re clean, safe, and experienced.
• Learn about the different types of eyelash extensions so you can get a sense of the different types of curls, materials, and many other choices you’ll need to make.
• Ask your lash tech not to use premade cluster lashes since they’re typically poorly made and use too much glue. Ideally, your lash tech will use handmade fans if you’re getting volume or hybrid lashes.
• Wash your face and don’t curl your lashes so your tech has a clean palette to work with.
• Avoid caffeine so you don’t have a hard time keeping still. Pick a relaxing drink instead since you’ll need to lie still for about two hours.

After your appointment

Your post-appointment choices also affect the life of your lash extensions. You’ll need to avoid anything that weakens your extensions’ adhesive or tugs on your lashes. Check out these tips to see how you can protect your extensions:

• Avoid water and steam for the first 48 hours after your appointment. 
• Keep your face away from high heat, open flames, and steam the entire time you have your extensions.
• Don’t pick or pull at your lashes since this can damage both your extensions and your natural lashes.
• Swap out your makeup and skin care products for oil-free and lash extension-safe alternatives. Avoid mascara and waterproof eye makeup.
• Don’t curl your lashes. You can damage your lashes by attempting to curl or adjust them at home. See your lash tech if you want to enhance your curl or switch up your look.
• Stick to light eye makeup to avoid unnecessary tugging at your lashes when applying and wiping it off. You shouldn’t need much eye makeup (if at all) since your lashes will look fuller and your lash line will look darker.
• Sleep on your side or back and use a satin or silk pillowcase to avoid tugging at your lashes in your sleep.
• Consider picking up a 3D eye mask to keep your extensions safe while you sleep.
• Adjust how you wash your face to avoid scrubbing your eyes and eyelashes.
• Comb and clean your lashes with lash shampoo and a clean spoolie. Bonus points if you also incorporate lash conditioner or lash serum into your routine.
• Book refill appointments to fill in any sparse areas on your lash line.

How often should you get refills?

You should get refills every two to three weeks. Keeping up with these appointments will keep your lashes looking fluttery and full while avoiding any gaps. It’s also an opportunity for your lash tech to reassess your look and recommend anything new. Your lash tech knows best, so double-check with them on how often you should come back.

Do different lash materials or methods last longer?

Lash materials and application methods don’t contribute much to your lashes’ longevity. How well they’re applied (regardless of method) and how well you care for them are much more important factors.

Between the classic, volume, and hybrid methods, many believe that volume lashes last longest since they’re thicker than other methods. However, your lashes typically fall out at the same rate between these three methods. Volume lashes may actually fall out quicker than others if your lash tech applied too many extensions or used extensions that were too heavy.

Lash materials vary from real animal fur to fake fur to synthetic silk. Mink is popularly believed to last longest since they weigh the least. And while mink is great quality, its lightness isn’t enough to withstand improper care or application.

Material and method are both important choices to consider when picking your lash extensions. In addition to longevity, both of these factors also impact your at-home maintenance, cost, and final look. Choose your material and method with all factors in mind to make the best choice.

Do eyelash extensions ruin your natural lashes?

Eyelash extensions don’t ruin your natural lashes as long as they’re applied correctly and you’re gentle with them after your appointment.

Choose your lash tech wisely since poor application can potentially result in permanent damage. Poor application can mean the lash tech applied too much glue or used extensions that were too heavy for your lashes. 

You can also damage your lashes if you’re not careful. Rubbing, tugging, and most DIY techniques or removal methods spell disaster for your natural lashes. When in doubt, ask your lash tech for advice.

How long does it take for eyelash extensions to fall out?

Lash extensions typically start to fall out around the six-week mark. This timeline is different for everyone, however, depending on their lash’s life cycle. 

How can I remove eyelash extensions?

You should go back to your lash tech to remove your lash extensions. It’s the safest method to ensure your natural lashes stay intact while preventing any damage you could do with DIY methods. There are some things you can do at home to get your lash extensions to fall out faster if you can’t make it to an appointment in the near future.

The goal is to gently weaken the lash adhesive to encourage your extensions to fall. Wearing oil-based products like regular mascara can begin weakening your lash adhesive. Facial steams are another safe way you can encourage your lashes to fall out.

Although we’d love to keep our extensions in forever, there are some cases where you should consider taking them out sooner rather than later. Irritated eyes may be a sign to remove your extensions. Call your healthcare provider if you’re unsure or have concerns about your eye or lash health.

How much do lash extensions cost?

Eyelash extensions can cost anywhere between $100 to $500 or more depending on the type of lash extensions you get, your lash tech’s experience, your salon’s location, and your desired look. Refills can cost between $55 and $100 depending on how much work is needed.

Are eyelash extensions worth it?

Eyelash extensions are worth it if you want to save the time it would take to do your lashes every day and before special events. Lash extensions are also customized by a Pro to fit your eye and face shape. This is a big plus if you haven’t had much luck with strip lashes and aren’t a fan of DIYing custom falsies.

If you’re willing to make some lifestyle adjustments to keep your lashes lasting as long as possible, extensions are an investment that’s worth your time. An experienced lash tech can ensure that your lashes look great from the start and last as long as possible.

They can also be a reliable source of advice since they’ve worked so intimately with your lashes. If you’re ready to dive into the world of lash extensions, look through our community of lash Pros to find an experienced and trustworthy Pro in your area.