Understanding the Lash Shedding Cycle: A Guide for Lash Artists

As a lash artist, understanding the lash shedding cycle is crucial in providing exceptional service to your clients. 

A lash’s lifespan affects the retention of lash extensions, and clients may start experiencing shedding in a few weeks. By being knowledgeable about the lash growth cycle and different lash shedding facts, you can educate your clients about what to expect throughout the process. 

The natural lash shedding cycle lasts up to 60 days, during which each lash passes through three phases: the anagen (growth phase), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase). 

During the anagen phase, lashes are actively growing and can last anywhere from 30 to 45 days. 

The second phase is the catagen, which lasts about 2 to 3 weeks when the lash reaches its desired length and stops growing. This is also the best time to apply eyelash extensions to achieve the longest-lasting results. 

The final and third phase is telogen, which completes the lash’s natural shedding cycle. During this phase, the lash is at rest and will fall out naturally. Depending on the individual's lash growth cycle, this phase can last for 3 to 4 months.

Lash shedding is a natural process that occurs to replace old lashes with new growth. 

However, age, hormone changes, stress, and medical conditions may affect the shedding cycle, causing excessive lash loss or damage. 

As a lash artist, it’s vital to educate your clients about lash shedding causes and recommend a professional opinion if there’s a high rate of excessive shedding.

Lash shedding is a year-round process, but the peak of the shedding season typically occurs during spring and fall.

This is because our bodies undergo changes during these seasons that can cause more lashes to fall out. 

This usually lasts around 6 weeks, and the degree of shedding can vary from person to person.

During the shedding season, your clients may experience shorter retention times as more lashes are lost. For this reason, it’s important to be aware of the shedding cycle and ensure your clients are also knowledgeable.

You can use this information to help manage their expectations and explain why they may need more frequent fills than usual.

1. Talk to your clients about the lash shedding cycle and explain why they may need more frequent fills.

2. To ensure the best retention, use lighter-weight lashes and gentler techniques when applying lash extensions.

3. Be aware that the natural lashes will be weaker during a shedding period, and take extra care when removing lash extensions.

4. Pay special attention to areas with a high rate of lash shedding, such as the inner corners of the eyes.

5. Reiterate the importance of proper lash cleaning and maintenance between fills. Encourage clients to use a gentle cleanser, pat dry after cleansing, and avoid picking or rubbing their natural lashes.

For clients who want their lashes to look full and lush year-round, scheduling regular refills every 2–3 weeks or as needed is important. This way, lash technicians can fill any gaps caused by shedding before they become too noticeable.

Again, as mentioned earlier, it's best to inform clients of the natural lash shedding cycle and how it can impact their lash extensions. This way, they’ll have realistic expectations and know when to come in for refills throughout the year.

In addition to regular lash extension refills, clients can take some additional steps to help prevent premature shedding and preserve the life of their lashes.

First, they should be careful not to rub or pull at their extensions as this causes damage that may lead to early shedding.

Second, they should use high-quality products when cleansing and moisturising their lashes.

Lastly, they should avoid sleeping on their stomachs or sides to keep pressure off the lashes and reduce breakage. If this can't be avoided, advise them to use a contoured sleep mask.

By better understanding the lash cycle and how it relates to lash extensions, you can now better serve your clients. Not only by giving them stunning lashes but by educating them on how to better maintain and extend the life of their extensions, even during the shedding season.

Remember, your clients will trust you more when you demonstrate that you are an expert in the field by having the right knowledge.

Lastly, always take the time to ensure that you and your clients are well-informed about the lash shedding cycle so you can make the most out of every lash appointment. Your clients will thank you for it!

P.S. To learn more about lash extensions, proper care, and everything in between, make sure to visit our blog.