When Lash Extensions Cause Damage

How to Spot and Deal with Damaged Lashes

Clients often ask, “Can lash extensions damage my natural lashes?” Poor isolation, unsuitable extensions or tugging at a set can put strain on natural lashes. You might notice a problem while applying a set or when a client comes in for an infill or removal. Here’s what to look for and how to adjust your approach.

Poor Application

Precise isolation is essential when applying eyelash extensions. A sticky occurs when an extension or its adhesive catches a neighbouring lash. Natural lashes grow at different rates, so lashes stuck together can tug on one another as they grow out, causing discomfort or premature shedding. Read our guide to preventing eyelash extension stickies for more advice.

Good lighting helps you see the base of each lash and check your placement. A Glamcor beauty light and a pair of pointed isolation tweezers can make it easier to see and separate neighbouring lashes, especially along a dense lash line.

Pro tip. If the natural lashes grow in different directions or the lash line is particularly dense, Micropore Tape can help you work in layers. Check that the client’s eyes stay fully closed and that the tape sits comfortably. Use a controlled amount of lash glue so excess adhesive doesn’t catch neighbouring lashes. The GIF below shows the adhesive pickup.

Improper Aftercare

Imagine a client comes back for an infill with fewer extensions than you expected. Look at the natural lashes and the remaining bonds before deciding what happened. Gaps in the set can come from normal shedding, retention issues or a combination of factors. Ask how the client has been cleansing their lashes and whether they’ve noticed any tugging, clumping or discomfort.

Show clients how to cleanse their extensions gently each day with a product such as Sensitive Lash Shampoo, following the product directions. Share the digital eyelash extensions aftercare leaflet so they have the routine to hand. Our guide to using lash shampoo on extensions explains why regular cleansing matters.

Remind clients to avoid picking at bonds or pulling at extensions. If an extension is twisting, catching or uncomfortable, ask them to get in touch so you can assess it. Take note of any visible breakage or unusual gaps at the next appointment and compare them with what you recorded at the consultation.

Spotting Damaged Lashes

Check the natural lashes before a new set or an infill. Look for visible breakage, changes in density and lashes that appear too fragile to support an extension. Short lashes can also be new growth, so assess each lash individually. If you see widespread breakage or the client reports ongoing discomfort, defer the service and reassess before applying another set.

Where the natural lashes are suitable for extensions, Ellipse Flat Lashes can give a defined classic finish at a lighter weight than some traditional classic extensions. Choose the length and diameter for the individual natural lash. If the client wants a hybrid finish, add volume fans only where the natural lashes can support them. See our guide to London Lash Flat Lashes for more detail.

Once you’ve confirmed the natural lashes are suitable, follow the directions for your pretreatment products and choose an adhesive that suits your placement speed and room conditions. If you use Flexie lash glue or finish with Superbonder Sealant, follow the instructions for each product.

Preventing Damage

Ask about recent lash treatments, products the client uses at home and any discomfort they’ve noticed. If the lashes look compromised after a recent lift or another treatment, explain what you can see and give them time before reassessing. Leave very fine or newly growing lashes bare if they can’t support the extension you’ve selected.

Build a final check into every appointment. Work through the set section by section, checking for stickies and reviewing the placement before the client opens their eyes. Record the lengths, diameters and products you used so you have a clear reference at the next infill.