This is dependent on many factors, the retention of eyelash extensions not only depends on the application process but also on the aftercare. If you are following all aftercare instructions such as cleaning them then your extensions can last up to 6 weeks! The better you look after your extensions, the longer they will last. However, retention is also dependent on your eyelash cycle, some people have a faster eyelash cycle which means that your eyelashes grow out faster so you may need more frequent infills. Other factors such as hormones and medication may affect lash retention.
Infills should be done every 2-3 weeks to keep your lashes looking full. There should be at least 50% of extensions left on each eye for an infill. Infills after 4 weeks will always be charged as full sets. It is likely you may still have over 50% of extensions left after 4 weeks. Due to the number of outgrown lashes at this time, once they have been removed there won't be many extensions left so a fullest is required to get your lashes full again.
When applied correctly, they don't. Please note that as long as your natural eyelashes are strong and long enough to support the extensions that you get, your natural eyelashes will be fine. Not everyone's eyelashes can support a super full and long set. If your eyelashes are too weak for the type of set you get done then this may start making your natural eyelashes even weaker. Your eyelash technician should know best at what lengths and volume your natural eyelashes can support to keep them healthy. Eyelash technicians are trained to isolate each eyelash when applying extensions. Extensions are only damaging when they haven't been applied properly, you should feel no discomfort when having eyelash extensions. If you do, then they have most likely been applied incorrectly and should be removed by a professional ASAP.
Our eyelashes follow a natural eyelash cycle which means we shed 3-5 eyelashes everyday. So when you see a natural eyelash attached to an extension after they fall out, this is normal! (As long as it's one extension or one fan attached to the natural eyelash). Your natural eyelashes fall out anyway but they are so fine we don't notice them fall out when we don't have extensions.
Eyelash extensions is a luxury service which should not be rushed. We have around 150-200 eyelashes on each eye and each eyelash needs to be carefully isolated before an extension can be placed on. To be safe, it is important that I take my time doing this. The only advice I can give if you want your appointment to be faster is to keep talking to a minimal as that can slow me down. There will usually be a podcast or relaxing playlist in the background. Bring your own earphones if you wish!
For lash extensions, a patch test is optional and available upon request via Instagram (gbxbeauty_) or email (hello@gbxbeauty.co.uk). For brow lamination or lash lift, a patch test is essential 24-48 hours before your appointment.
