Do natural lashes grow back? Understanding the hair growth cycle in the context of eyelash extensions.
10th May 2024
Eyelashes are another type of hair with a growth cycle that leads to eventual shedding. This issue is particularly common if hair care is neglected or our lifestyle is unhealthy. Sometimes even a lack of a balanced diet can weaken natural lashes, making them sparse and prone to shedding. For lash stylists, it's crucial to understand the hair growth cycle and the structure of eyelashes.
First, let's cover the basics: How are eyelashes structured?
Every stylist should know the structure of an eyelash. Human hair is considered a skin appendage that continues to grow throughout our lives. Eyelashes are hair that don't have active muscles, which explains why they don't change during goosebumps.
Before applying false lashes, you must understand the natural eyelash structure. This foundational knowledge will help you become a better stylist over time. Natural lashes consist of three layers:
1. The cuticle, often called hair scales
2. The cortical layer, known as the cortex
3. The hair core, or medulla
The medulla is the most important part since it's where the hair papilla connects to the nervous and circulatory systems. If the hair papilla is damaged, it can cause permanent hair loss, which is critical to consider when styling and removing false lashes.
The hair growth cycle: What should you know?
Lash stylists can sometimes damage hair structure, causing premature fallout. To avoid this, it's vital to continually refine your skills and become an even better specialist. Understanding the eyelash growth cycle is crucial and comprises three phases:
1. Anagen – The growth phase when the hair appears as a healthy eyelash
2. Catagen – A mature hair that needs care to remain in good condition
3. Telogen – The hair falls out and dies off, making way for a new anagen to replace it as a new eyelash
As a stylist, be aware that lashes glued during the anagen phase are the strongest but will show regrowth fastest. Always follow safety protocols when applying artificial lashes. Damage to the anagen phase can prevent the eyelash from growing back or cause it to fall out.
Eyelash structure and synthetic lash application: A summary
Before starting eyelash styling, always ask your client about her health. This will help you better assess the state of anagen hairs, which are crucial for creating perfect eyelash styles. Make sure the lashes have the proper pH, which should be neutral or slightly alkaline. You can adjust it by applying suitable eyelash styling products.
We recommend our BIO Eyelash Foam Cleanser for Eyelash Extension which has the appropriate pH level.
False lashes won't damage natural hairs or cause excessive shedding if styled correctly. Try not to overburden natural lashes, as stronger styling makes it longer for them to return to their original state after removing synthetic clusters.
Our beginner lash stylist kit offers everything you need to kick-start your career with confidence, from essential tools to premium lashes. It's a comprehensive set designed to streamline your work and ensure flawless results every time.