Do eyelash extensions cause permanent damage?

Author: Gianni Ward  |  Last update: Monday, August 4, 2025

Lash extensions in and of themselves won't ruin your natural lashes. Those short, stubby lashes that you see pictures of that people say were caused by their lash extensions? Those are actually caused by inexperienced lash technicians who made mistakes during the application process.

Do eyelash extensions ruin your eyelashes over time?

Lash extensions, if too heavy or applied incorrectly, can lead to breakage, thinning, or even loss of natural lashes over time. On the other hand, proponents of lash extensions often highlight the benefits when applied correctly, including enhancing volume and length without the need for mascara.

Can you permanently lose eyelashes from extensions?

This depends on how long you wear the extensions and the level of damage caused. The glue used for the extensions can permanently damage your eyelids and eyelash follicles, but if you're lucky enough to avoid permanent damage, expect to see your eyelashes quickly grow back within six weeks.

Will my eyelashes grow back after extensions?

Lash extensions are fibers that are glued onto the natural eyelashes to create a thicker, longer eyelash. However, lash extensions can damage or rip the natural lashes. If natural eyelashes are lost due to lash extensions, they typically grow back in a few months.

Do fake lashes ruin your real lashes?

The simple answer is no. If used properly, false eyelashes won't ruin your real eyelashes. They don't disturb them at all when applied correctly. False lashes sit just above your natural lash line on your eyelid, not on your actual lashes.

It Changed My Life & It's Not Mascara - Supermodel Paulina Porizkova | False Eyelashes vs Mascara

How often should I take a break from lash extensions?

As a general rule of thumb, many lash experts recommend taking a break every 6-9 months, especially if you've been wearing extensions continuously. Given that the natural lash growth cycle from start to finish can range from 3 to 4 months, individual lashes are at different stages of this cycle at any given time.

Do eyelash extensions shorten your eyelashes?

If your extensions are too heavy, they can cause your eyelash shaft to break. This causes the appearance of short lashes. Improper removal techniques can also cause shaft breakage, leading to shorter-looking lashes until they naturally grow back.

Why are my eyelashes so thin after extensions?

If your lash extensions are too heavy for your natural lashes to be able to support, this can cause your lashes to shed prematurely, which can impact their natural growth cycle. Lash extensions that are too heavy for your natural lashes can cause your lashes to grow back thinner and lead to natural lash loss.

Is it OK to let lash extensions grow out?

Typically, the eyelash cycle sticks to six weeks. As time passes, you will notice that certain areas along the lash line are becoming sparse. You can 'refill' these areas with new lash extensions, or you can wait for your natural eyelashes to grow out and let the lash extensions fall out naturally.

Why did I stop wearing lash extensions?

Since lashes are glued to your natural lashes, the after effects were devastating. I was left with tiny stubs that made me look… just plain weird. You see ― typically; we lose 1 to 5 lashes every day. In two weeks, we lose around 20% of our lashes.

What are the bad side of eyelash extensions?

Extensions can trap dirt and bacteria, leading to serious infections, including pink eye. Allergic reaction. The glues in some lash adhesives contain formaldehyde, which can cause a severe allergic reaction over time that can result in oozing and crusting. Formaldehyde is also a known carcinogen.

At what age do eyelashes stop growing?

Eyelashes continue to grow throughout your life. However, they may become thinner and shorter as you age. More delicate lashes could be about the amount you have to start with and the length of the growth cycle. You may also notice that your lashes are not as curly as they once were.

Are lash lifts bad for your eyelashes?

Conclusion. Lash lifts provide a convenient method for enhancing your natural lashes, delivering impressive and durable outcomes. Although there are concerns about potential harm, when administered by a proficient lash artist and followed by appropriate post-treatment care, lash lifts are typically considered safe.

Is it bad to always have lash extensions?

While the adhesive can cause damages that are often temporary, the weight of the individual lashes, if they are too heavy for your natural lashes “Can cause premature shedding of the natural lash and may have an effect on your ability to grow lashes from those follicles.”

What is the best eyelash growth serum?

Best lash serum overall

As mentioned above, Latisse is the only FDA-approved eyelash-enhancing serum. “It does work. It takes about eight weeks of nightly use,” says Dr. Russo.

How to tell if lashes are damaged?

How to Identify Broken Damaged Eyelashes
  1. Brittleness: If you notice your eyelashes easily breaking or snapping, it's a clear indicator of damage. ...
  2. Sparse Growth: This means noticeable gaps in the lash line, where lashes are either shorter or missing. ...
  3. Discoloration: Healthy lashes typically have a rich color.

Why are my eyelashes so short after lash extensions?

Nailheads. Nailheads occur when extensions are mistakenly glued onto the skin of the eyelid instead of the natural lashes. This blocks natural lash growth, leading to shorter and stubbier outcomes.

What is the lifespan of eyelash extensions?

Professionally applied lash extensions can last anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on your natural lash cycle, aftercare, and the skill of your technician.

Does removing eyelash extensions ruin your lashes?

Can eyelash extension remover damage natural lashes? No, it won't. In fact, you won't even feel your extensions getting removed! The only time it hurts or damaging your natural lashes (natural lashes falling off together) is when the lash extensions were applied in the wrong method in the first place.

How do you fix damaged eyelashes after extensions?

You can fix it by taking a break, using lash serums, applying natural oils, avoiding waterproof mascara, and maintaining a gentle lash cleansing routine. These steps will help your natural lashes recover and regain their beauty. With patience and care, you'll soon enjoy healthier, longer lashes.

Do you lose more eyelashes with extensions?

Eyelash Extensions Probably Don't Damage Your Natural Lashes

Often, that's just the shock of going from a full set of extensions back to your natural lashes. However, some professionals theorize that the weight and pressure on the lash follicle can lead to some lash loss.

How long does it take to grow eyelashes back after extensions?

Generally, it can take up to 60-90 days for eyelashes to regrow after extensions. However, the exact duration may vary depending on the health of your natural lashes and the proper application and removal of the eyelash extensions. The average lifespan of an eyelash is approximately three months.

What vitamin deficiency causes eyelashes to fall out?

Vitamin D plays a vital role in follicle function and can significantly impact the success of our lash services. Recent research has shown that vitamin D receptors are present in hair follicles, including those of eyelashes, and these receptors are essential for maintaining the natural growth cycle.

How to remove fake eyelashes without ruining your real ones?

So, here are seven tried and tested tips on how to remove eyelash extensions at home in the safest ways.
  1. Don't Pick At Your Lashes. ...
  2. Use An Oil-Based Makeup Remover. ...
  3. Make A Natural Eyelash Glue Remover. ...
  4. Apply A Nightly Treatment of Castor Oil. ...
  5. Try Steam. ...
  6. Mask The Extensions. ...
  7. Take Care of Your Natural Eyelashes.

What do eyelashes look like after removing extensions?

You will likely find that your lashes look just as they did before. Sometimes the natural lash may appear shorter because the tip may have broken off when wearing extensions or during the removal.

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