HOW TO GROW YOUR NATURAL EYELASHES
It's no secret anymore that we lose 3-5 natural eyelashes per day. Each individual eyelash is on its own eyelash growth cycle, which can last 30-90 days depending on genetics, health, age, medications, and many other factors. Natural lash health is an imperative part of how full your lash extensions can become, and how long they will last. When your certified lash artist is correctly applying lash extensions for you, they are each attached to one single natural lash. That being said, you can imagine how having healthier natural lashes can give your artist the best canvas to create her magic on, leaving you with the fluffiest extensions possible and promoting natural eyelash growth for longer lashes.
As a client, there are a handful of simple things you can do to help your natural lashes live their best life, which in turn will help your professional lash artist do her job to the best of her ability. We've put together some great practices to maintain longer, fuller natural lashes, even when taking breaks from extensions. Most of these tips can help your brows grow too, so be sure to reap the benefits of both!
GROWING PAINS
To nourish and keep our lashes growing long and strong, we must first understand the eyelash growth cycle and lash growth phases. The natural lash cycle consists of three main lash phases: Anagen (growing), Catagen (dormant/transition), and Telogen (shedding). Let's break down these lash phases:
Anagen Phase: This is the active growth phase where the lash follicles produce new lashes.
Catagen Phase: Also known as the transition phase, this is when lash growth stops and the hair follicle shrinks.
Telogen Phase: This is the resting phase and shedding phase of the lash cycle.
Approximately 10% of all the hairs on your body are in the Telogen phase (also known as the resting phase) at any given time, and on average, you'll experience lash shedding of up to five eyelashes per day. After shedding that beautiful baby, the cycle starts over. For some lashes, it can take up to six months to complete one full eyelash growth cycle. Overall, lashes have a lifespan of about three months. Generally, it takes between four and eight weeks for a new lash to fully grow. When all is said and done, eyelashes spend most of their time resting and falling out — not growing — so it's important to protect the ones you've got and maintain healthy lashes!
HEALTHY HABITS
Any esthetician will tell you the importance of removing makeup and washing your face before bed. Your eyes count just as much as the rest of your skin! When it comes to our delicate eye area, being gentle is key. Remember, we aren't scrubbing anything on our face or body like we would our bathroom tub! The key is using products that help do the work for you, so you aren't using too much force.
Clean gently: Water-based, oil-free cleansers are recommended for gentle cleansing. LLL's Lash Bath is a gentle yet effective oil-free cleanser that can be used for cleansing lashes, eyelash extensions, and can be used as a face wash. Wet your cleansing brush and close your eyes, and gently massage the foam at the lash line, working the brush from base to tip of the natural lashes. Getting in between each lash and the bases, taking your time to cleanse thoroughly. Rinse your eyes and lashes while keeping your eyes closed. Blot dry and blow dry using your hair dryer's "cool" setting from 12 or more inches below. Brush your lashes back into perfection with a spoolie. If lashes are brushed while wet, the very fine tips of your fans will stick together, causing extensions to look clumpy instead of fluffy. Remember, gentle makeup removal is crucial for maintaining lash health, so always remove makeup gently to avoid damaging your natural lashes.
Step away from the eyelash curler: Curling eyelashes can wreak havoc on natural lashes. If you tug too hard, you'll most likely experience lash loss or worse, cut them. Instead, consider a lash lift for up to 8 weeks of curl, or a lash tint for added definition. Stepping away from the curler is another reason to choose lash extensions - no curling is required!
Eat a balanced diet: If the hair on your head appears dull, your skin is lackluster, or your nails are constantly breaking, a deficient diet could be the culprit. Hair, skin, and lashes need plenty of omega-3 fatty acids and protein to flourish. Salmon, avocado, edamame, beans, flaxseeds, MCT Oil, and walnuts are a few things you can consume regularly to boost those fatty acids. Additionally, incorporating vitamins D and E into your diet can support lash health and growth. These vitamins play a crucial role in follicle health and can help combat eyelash aging.
Brew some tea: Green tea is an anti-inflammatory that soothes puffy eyes. The tea also improves blood circulation, which enhances the health of follicles and ensures nutrients get to the lash line. So drink up or apply the brewed (and cooled-off) tea bags directly on the lash line.
Consider natural oils and growth serums: Some people find success in promoting lash growth by applying natural oils like castor oil or coconut oil to their lash line. Others opt for lash serums or growth serums specifically designed to enhance lash length and density. These products can provide significant lash enhancement when used consistently. Always consult with your lash artist before using any new products on your lashes, especially if you have extensions.
Your professional lash artist is every bit committed to your natural lash health as you are - which should be expected! Beautiful lash extensions are a team effort; it takes your at-home care and a determined artist to keep them looking their absolute best. Use the products your artist recommends; she knows her sh*t, and that's why you chose her.
Remember, factors like hormonal changes and seasonal shedding can affect your eyelash growth cycle. By following these tips and maintaining good lash care habits, you can support your lash follicles' health and enjoy fuller, longer lashes naturally. Consistent care and attention to your lash routine can significantly improve lash density and overall lash health, helping you achieve the beautiful, luscious lashes you desire.