Will Eyelash Extensions Make Your Real Lashes Fall out?

Anyone who's seen lash extensions before-and-after photos understands just how transformative they can be. The treatment isn't perfect. Lash extensions are a way to get the lashes you've always wanted, but they come with a price — and not just the actual cost of the treatment. Lash extensions are high maintenance and can potentially damage your real lashes.

If you notice that your natural lashes look thinner and more sparse as your lash extensions start to fall out, the treatment could be to blame. Sometimes, extensions can disrupt your lashes' natural growth cycle. Over time, hairs may grow back stubbier and finer than before. Plus, the glue used to adhere to the lashes can be irritating — especially if you have sensitive skin. According to dermatologist Dr. Melanie Palm, some symptoms can include redness, flaky skin, severe itching, and even blisters.

However, there are a few ways to minimize the trauma. We turned to Dr. Palm and lash expert Jaimineey Patel to find out more.

Keep scrolling for seven tips to follow if you want to keep lash extensions from ruining your real lashes.

Find an Experienced Technician

When it comes to getting lash extensions, it's important to do your research beforehand. Finding a professionally licensed lash technician and a salon that uses high-quality products is non-negotiable. An experienced lash artist can improperly apply extensions, which can do serious damage to your natural eyelashes.

Remove Eye Makeup Carefully

Dr. Palm said to be gentle when applying and removing eye makeup and to avoid rubbing the area to keep your lashes from falling out prematurely. 

"Most eyelashes have a relatively short growth cycle of hair – this is why our lashes are about one-fourth of an inch long rather than inches or feet like hair on our scalp," she explained. "However, eyelash hairs have a long pause cycle before they move to the shedding cycle, called telogen. Stress on the hair follicle may shift follicles prematurely into the shedding cycle."