When eyelash extensions first came to the beauty scene, they were applied one eyelash extension to one lash. This is considered ‘classic’ or ‘traditional’ in today’s extension menu’s. As new methods have come to existence, such as hybrid lashes (classic and volume, mixed) and russian volume lashes (lightweight 3D or more lashes on one lash), classic lashes have been taken off many menu’s.

One reason is: they don’t hold on as well as russian volume. As a lash artist, the amount of people who complain about premature lash fallout is about 90% more than those who complain about russian volume lash fallout.

Now, this is where it gets tricky, because lash extensions will fall out no matter what. Lash extensions aren’t meant to be on forever, which is why fills are offered. A fill is required every 2-3 weeks, regardless of technique. We lose 3-5 NATURAL lashes everyday, whether they have an extension on or not. Client’s often forget that or think they are the exception, but it’s the truth.

This is the part where the nerdy lash girl in me comes out. There is a lot of science and chemistry involved in eyelash extensions. It’s not just a matter of ‘grab and drop’ a lash. If only it were so simple! To be honest, each lash is carefully placed and held for about 2 seconds to ensure proper bonding. Bonding means that the extension has a secure grip on the lash, in alignment, and not too much glue. Classic lashes have a decent bond, but often they pop off from things like eye rubbing.

Volume lashes have a stronger bond, meaning because there are 3D+ lashes on, each individual lash extension on that 3D ‘fan’ will bond together, wrapping around the natural lash. This is why volume lashes seem to last longer between fills. So-Why does that matter? It means less complaints which means happier clients who feel they got their money’s worth. Sound’s good doesn’t it? It’s a win-win for both parties.

Being a lash tech is not easy. Lash extensions are so temperamental. Factors such as humidity, skin type, active lifestyle level, makeup use, sweat, normal growth factors, crying, eye rubbing, sleeping on your side - these are all things among many other factors that contribute to how long your eyelash extensions will hold on.

Perhaps the silver lining is this: the longer you have them, the more comfortable you become with your lifestyle containing them. By the second fill, you’re a pro.