Why Your Lash Extensions Aren’t Sticking (and What’s Really Going On)

There's nothing worse than spending money on a new pair of lash extensions only to discover that they begin to fall out after a few days. You leave the salon feeling like a total worldie, but by the end of the week, half of them are gone. Isn't this frustrating?

Before you blame your lash technician (or assume that extensions "just don't work on you"), let's talk about why lashes don't always stick. There are a few typical culprits, and the majority of them are easier to resolve than you may believe.

1. Oily Lids or Skin 

Your natural lashes sit directly on top of your lash line, which connects to your eyelids, one of the oiliest sections of your face. Excess oil interferes with the glue's ability to bind correctly.

Make sure your lashes are clean before your session. Avoid using heavy creams or greasy makeup removers near your eyes; instead, use a lash-safe cleanser.

2. Playing with Your Lashes 

We all do it unconsciously: a tiny tug here, scratching our eyes when we're sleepy. However, plucking, tugging, or even tampering with extensions is a guaranteed method to cause them to come out prematurely.

Quick fix: Keep a spoolie (lash brush) nearby. If they feel weird or clumped, sweep them through rather than plucking.

3. Lash Prep Wasn’t on Point

Extensions will not adhere if your natural lashes were not adequately prepared prior. Any remaining makeup, oils, or moisturiser might act as a barrier. A good lash technician will always prime and prep, but showing up with clean lashes offers them a better opportunity.

Quick fix: Avoid using mascara, eyeliner, or oily cosmetics around your eyes before your visit.

4. Humidity and Glue Drama 

One thing that many people overlook is that lash adhesive is difficult to use. It responds to changes in humidity and temperature. If the environment is excessively hot, chilly, or moist, it may cure (set) too soon or too slowly, resulting in a poor bond.

Quick remedy (for techs): A good lash tech should know their glue inside out and adapt for the room. If you're a client, trust your technician and don't complain if it's a little warm or windy; they're probably balancing the adhesive!

5. Natural Lash Cycle 

Biology can sometimes take precedence over you. Natural lashes shed in cycles, much like hair on your head. If you acquire a set soon before a natural shed, expect more fallout than normal.

Quick fix: Schedule infills every 2-3 weeks to maintain your set appearing full, no matter where you are in your lash cycle.

6. Using the Wrong Products After 

Extensions are divas; they dislike oil, thick lotions, and waterproof mascara. If you use oil-based items around your eyes, you are breaking down the adhesive connection every time.

Quick fix: Use oil-free makeup removers and avoid waterproof products near your lashes.

7. Sleeping on Your Face 

It sounds ridiculous, but how you sleep makes a difference. Face-planters and side-sleepers sometimes wake up with one side looking spotty since their lashes were practically squished all night.

Quick fix: Sleep on your back or invest in a silk pillowcase to minimise friction.

Lash extensions look great when done correctly and properly cared for. If yours aren't sticking, it's typically due to grease, tinkering, improper preparation, or applying the incorrect items afterwards. Sometimes it's just your natural lash cycle working its magic.

What is the good news? With proper treatment (brushing everyday, avoiding oils, and scheduling regular infills), you can keep your lashes looking great for weeks.

So, the next time your lashes begin to fall out early, don't panic. Determine what is causing the problem, adjust your regimen, and you'll be fluttering away like an expert in no time.