Hey there, lash lovers! Let's talk about those nasty clumpy eyelash extensions, sometimes referred to as sticky lashes. We all want our lashes to look fabulous, right? But sometimes, despite our best efforts, they end up clumping together, which is clearly not the look we’re going for!
Clumping occurs when eyelash extensions stick to one another, creating tangled, unnatural, and unsightly-looking eyelashes. This phenomenon can be caused by various factors, ranging from the actual application of the extensions to ineffective lash aftercare and maintenance, where oil, dead skin cells, makeup, and moisturizers build up on the lashes, to exposure to excessive heat. Then, if you’re a mascara user, that’s a whole other story, so if you’d like to know more about defending your lashes against clumping, and more, then this article is for you.
So, why does clumping happen? And how do we avoid it?
Common Causes of Clumpy Eyelash Extensions and How to Avoid Them:
1. Poor Lash Extension Application
Let’s start with the application process, as an experienced Lash Artist, I can’t stress highly enough the importance of choosing a qualified eyelash extension artist to beautify your lash line. Not to get too technical, but eyelash extension application requires your Lash Artist to apply either one single or, in the case of Volume, one fanned group of extensions to one single eyelash using a specifically designed lash adhesive.
The application technique requires controlled separation and placement of each extension by the Lash Artist and a tried and tested knowledge of the performance of their glue; not all glues offer the same drying time, so your Lash Artist will have chosen their lash adhesive based on their application technique. Accurate lash separation and adequate drying time prevent multiple lashes from sticking together, which we often refer to as clumping. So that being said, and assuming your lashes are correctly applied, we can move on to the important role you play in keeping those beauties looking their best and avoiding aftercare clumping.
2. Exposure to Excessive Heat
Exposing eyelash extensions to excessive heat can have detrimental effects, including singeing the fibers extensions are made from, which subsequently leads to clumped or stumpy lashes. Heat sources such as hair dryers, curling irons, overhead heaters, or being too close to naked flames can be catastrophic. Steam rooms and saunas can also lead to unsightly clumps if you are not thoroughly cleansing post-use.
Solution: Take precautions to shield your eyelash extensions from excessive heat exposure. When using heat styling tools, ensure they are kept at a safe distance from your lashes. If you’re enjoying the orb of a naked flame, make sure you’re at an appropriate distance from the flame because if you can feel the intense heat on your skin, be assured the heat is having a detrimental effect on your lash extensions. Additionally, refrain from prolonged exposure to steam or saunas at high temperatures, as all these factors can damage the lash fibers leading to lash clumping.
3. Ineffective Lash Aftercare
Undoubtedly, your daily lash aftercare routine is the single, most crucial factor in keeping your lash extension lashes looking pristine and your natural lashes healthy. Apart from a few other contributing factors that lead to eyelash clumping that are covered in this article, effective lash aftercare is your savior from that unenviable clumping.
Correct aftercare practices are essential in maintaining the integrity and longevity of your eyelash extensions. Failure to follow effective aftercare practices can result in clumping, as debris, make-up, dead skin cells, and residue accumulate at the base of the lashes. Lack of effective aftercare is not only a critical contributor to eliminating clumping, but it’s also your proactive defense against eye infections, lash mite infestations, reduced risk of premature lash loss, and the possible onset of eye infections.
Best Solution: If you’re an avid makeup wearer, you’ll want to ensure that all surface residue is removed, so we’d recommend that it’s best to double-cleanse your face and eye areas. If heavy make-up isn’t your vibe, then one deep cleanse will do the job. Deep cleansing removes not only makeup but also dead skin cells, and prevents the skin from looking dull. It clears away residue that can cause allergies, irritation, or infection.
We recommend using a mild yet effective cleanser to ensure no residue is left on the skin. Incorporating Prolong Lash cleanser into your daily skincare routine is a surefire way to achieve glowing results and clump-free lashes. If value for money is your go-to, you could opt for the Prolong Lash Concentrate. All you need to do is grab an empty 60ml/2.02 fl oz foaming pump bottle, and you can dilute 20ml/0.67 fl oz concentrate, with 40ml/1.35 fl oz Distilled water and create the perfect foaming shampoo, and you can fill that bottle 5 times!
It’s important to make sure to check the recommended mixing dilution on the packaging or the product's page for the recommended dilution and instructions.
However, if you're after convenience, then it’s best to opt for the foaming cleanser pumps , which are ready to use with no mixing required. Not only will diligent aftercare eliminate clumping, but in salon tested environment, clients who used Prolong Lash Cleanser twice daily presented for in-fills at three weeks with at least 60% of their extension still on! How’s that for the added value of lash retention?
4. Using Mascara on Extensions
While mascara may seem like a quick fix for achieving extra volume and definition or camouflaging a few gaps, it is one of the worst enemies of eyelash extensions. The use of mascara will cause clumping, as eyelash extension fibers are porous, the ingredients in mascara, particularly waterproof mascara, are attracted to eyelash extension fibers like glue. The application of mascara will result in your extensions sticking together and clumping.
Solution: To avoid mascara-induced clumping, resist the temptation to use mascara on your eyelash extensions. Instead, schedule a visit to your eyelash extension artist to have your gaps filled, your lashes refreshed, or even lengthened or thickened with more extensions added. Alternatively, if you’d like to opt out of extensions for a bit, consider other options, such as lash tinting and a lash lift, to achieve the desired effect without the risk of clumping.
Understanding and combating clumping is crucial to achieving flawless lashes. Skilled application by a qualified lash artist ensures correct lash isolation, while diligent aftercare preserves lash health and aesthetics. Prolong Lash Cleanser proves invaluable, offering both convenience and impressive retention.
Being cautious around heat sources to prevent damage while avoiding mascara is essential to sidestep clumping disasters. Opt for refills, longer or thicker extension applications, and in the absence of extensions, tinting or lash lifts can provide aesthetic volume. Embracing these solutions is the key to keeping you rocking those fabulous lashes! If you're still struggling with clumpy lashes, reach out to us or your lash artist for some expert advice and tips. We're here to help you look and feel your best!
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