The Life Cycle of a Lash: What Every Client Should Know

Most clients are surprised to learn that lashes, like hair, have their own natural rhythm. Understanding that rhythm can completely change how you see lash retention.

Each natural lash grows, rests, and sheds over the course of several weeks. This is called the lash growth cycle, and it’s the quiet reason your extensions eventually fall out. It isn’t a flaw in the application or adhesive; it’s biology.

Here’s what’s really happening:

• Anagen Phase (Growth) – This is when new lashes are forming and growing. They’re short, fine, and not yet strong enough to hold an extension.

• Catagen Phase (Transition) – Growth stops, and the lash starts preparing to shed. Extensions attached to lashes in this stage will naturally fall out as part of the cycle.

• Telogen Phase (Resting) – The lash has fully matured and will eventually shed to make room for a new one.

When you understand this cycle, you stop seeing lash loss as a problem and start seeing it as a sign of health. It’s your body’s way of renewing and protecting your eyes.

This is why aftercare matters so much. Rubbing, pulling, or using oil-based products disrupts this delicate process. It’s also why regular infills are necessary to replace lashes that have naturally shed and maintain a consistent, full look.

Educating your clients about lash anatomy builds trust. It shows them that you don’t just apply lashes; you understand them. And that level of knowledge is what turns first-time clients into long-term loyal ones.