Eyelash extensions are a fantastic way to get the long, full lashes you’ve always dreamed of. But to keep them looking their best, regular maintenance is key. One of the most common questions people have is, "How often should I get my lashes filled?" The answer depends on a few factors, including your natural lash growth cycle and your aftercare routine.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology advises that with proper care, you can safely enjoy your extensions for the long term . This guide will help you understand when to book your next lash fill to keep your lashes looking flawless.
Understanding Your Natural Lash Cycle
To understand why lash fills are necessary, it’s important to first understand your natural lash growth cycle. Your natural eyelashes are constantly growing, resting, and shedding. Each of your individual lashes is in a different phase of the cycle at any given time. When an eyelash extension is applied, it’s attached to a single natural lash. As your natural lash grows and eventually sheds, the extension attached to it will fall out as well. This is a completely normal part of the process.
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Lash Cycle Phase
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What Happens
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Duration
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Anagen (Growing Phase)
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The lash is actively growing.
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30-45 days
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Catagen (Transition Phase)
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The lash stops growing and the follicle shrinks.
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2-3 weeks
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Telogen (Resting Phase)
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The lash is at rest before it sheds.
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Up to 100 days
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Because your natural lashes are always shedding, you will naturally lose a few extensions every day. This is why fills are needed to replace the extensions that have shed.
How Often Should You Get Lash Fills?
As a general rule, it is recommended to get your eyelash extensions filled every 2 to 3 weeks. This is the sweet spot for most people, as it allows your lash artist to replace any extensions that have shed and apply new extensions to the new lashes that have grown in. Waiting longer than 3 weeks can result in your lashes looking sparse, and your lash artist may need to do a full set instead of a fill, which can be more time-consuming and expensive.
Factors That Affect Lash Retention
While 2 to 3 weeks is a good guideline, there are several factors that can affect how long your lash extensions last and how often you’ll need a fill:
•Your Natural Lash Cycle: Some people have a faster lash cycle than others, which means they may need fills more frequently.
•Your Aftercare Routine: How you care for your lashes at home plays a huge role in their longevity. Using oil-based products on or around your eyes can break down the lash adhesive, causing your extensions to fall out prematurely. Be sure to use an oil-free cleanser, like our Lash Wash, to keep your lashes clean.
•Your Lifestyle: If you are very active, swim frequently, or use steam rooms or saunas, you may find that you need fills more often.
•The Type of Lashes You Have: Different types of lashes can have different retention rates. For example, our New Lashy Eyelash Extensions are known for their excellent retention.
For more tips on how to make your extensions last, check out our blog post, How Can I Make Lash Extensions Last Longer?.
What to Expect at Your Fill Appointment
During your fill appointment, your lash artist will first remove any grown-out or loose extensions. Then, they will cleanse your lashes to remove any makeup, oil, or debris. Finally, they will apply new extensions to your natural lashes, filling in any gaps and ensuring your lashes look full and beautiful again. It’s a great time to relax and enjoy a little pampering!
Conclusion
Regular fills are an essential part of maintaining beautiful eyelash extensions. By scheduling your fills every 2 to 3 weeks and taking good care of your lashes at home, you can enjoy your gorgeous, full lashes for a long time to come. If you have any questions about your lash retention or when to book your next fill, don’t hesitate to ask your lash artist for their expert advice.
