Common Lash Extension Problems and How to Fix Them

Even with skilled application and diligent aftercare, lash extension wearers sometimes encounter issues. Understanding what causes common problems helps you prevent them and know when to seek help from your technician. This troubleshooting guide covers the most frequent lash extension complaints, their causes, and practical solutions.

Problem 1: Premature Shedding

Losing extensions faster than expected is one of the most frustrating experiences for lash wearers. While some shedding is normal (we naturally lose 1-5 lashes per eye daily), excessive loss before your scheduled fill indicates an issue.

Common Causes:

• Oil exposure: Oil-based products break down lash adhesive
• Inadequate cleaning: Dirty lashes don't retain as well as clean ones
• Sleeping position: Face-down sleeping crushes and pulls extensions
• Humidity issues: Both very dry and very humid environments affect adhesive
• Natural lash cycle: Some people have faster lash growth cycles
• Application issues: Poor isolation or incorrect adhesive amount

Solutions:

• Audit all products touching your face for hidden oils
• Clean your lashes daily with proper lash cleanser
• Try sleeping on your back or use a silk pillowcase
• Discuss adhesive options with your technician if you live in extreme climates
• Schedule more frequent fills if you have a fast lash cycle

Problem 2: Twisting and Rotating Extensions

Extensions that twist or spin to face the wrong direction look untidy and can cause discomfort. This issue is usually more noticeable with classic extensions than volume fans.

Common Causes:

• Incorrect curl selection: Curls too straight for your natural lash angle
• Improper attachment: Extension not fully wrapped around natural lash base
• Friction: Rubbing eyes, rough pillow fabrics, or touching lashes
• Natural lash shape: Some natural lashes have irregular shapes that affect attachment

Solutions:

• Don't attempt to fix twisted lashes yourself - they need professional removal
• Discuss the issue with your technician for future sets
• Consider volume lashes, which twist less due to increased surface contact
• Minimise friction by avoiding eye rubbing and using silk pillowcases

Problem 3: Clumping and Stickies

"Stickies" occur when multiple natural lashes are glued together with a single extension or when adjacent extensions adhere to each other. This is a serious issue that can damage your natural lashes.

Signs of Stickies:

• Pain or pulling sensation when lashes move
• Clumps of lashes that move together
• Difficulty brushing through lashes
• Extensions that feel heavy or uncomfortable

Solutions:

• Return to your technician for correction as soon as possible
• Do not attempt to separate stuck lashes yourself
• If your technician doesn't acknowledge the problem, seek a second opinion
• For future appointments, politely ask your technician to check for stickies before you leave

Problem 4: Irritation and Redness

Some discomfort immediately after application is normal, but persistent irritation requires attention.

Common Causes:

• Adhesive reaction: Sensitivity to cyanoacrylate or adhesive fumes
• Improper placement: Extensions touching the eyelid skin
• Allergic reaction: True allergy to adhesive components
• Debris buildup: Poor cleaning leading to blepharitis
• Latex sensitivity: Reaction to under-eye pad materials

Normal vs. Concerning Symptoms:

Normal (first 24 hours): Mild redness along lash line, slight sensitivity, minor watering

Concerning: Swelling, intense itching, burning sensation, discharge, worsening symptoms over time

Solutions:

• For mild irritation, use a cold compress and wait 24 hours
• If extensions touch your eyelid, return to technician for adjustment
• For suspected allergic reactions, have extensions removed and consult a doctor
• Improve cleaning routine if buildup is the culprit
• Request latex-free pads for future appointments

Problem 5: Uneven or Asymmetrical Results

Looking in the mirror and seeing mismatched eyes is disappointing, especially after investing time and money in your appointment.

Common Causes:

• Natural asymmetry: Most faces have slightly different eye shapes
• Different lash densities: One eye may have more natural lashes
• Inconsistent application: Technician error in length or curl selection
• Uneven shedding: One eye may lose extensions faster due to sleeping position

Solutions:

• Point out asymmetry to your technician before leaving your appointment
• Discuss lash mapping to compensate for natural differences
• Request that your technician regularly compare both eyes during application
• Evaluate your sleeping position if uneven shedding is the issue

Problem 6: Extensions Poking or Feeling Scratchy

Discomfort from poky lashes makes wearing extensions unpleasant and often signals an application issue.

Common Causes:

• Extensions too long: Lengths beyond what your natural lashes can support
• Improper direction: Extensions applied at wrong angles
• Grown-out extensions: As natural lashes grow, attachment point shifts
• Broken extensions: Damaged tips become sharp and scratchy

Solutions:

• Return to technician for adjustment or removal of problem lashes
• Request shorter lengths for future appointments
• Schedule fills before extensions become too grown-out
• Handle lashes gently to prevent breakage

Problem 7: Visible Gaps in Your Lash Line

Gaps between extensions can appear even before significant shedding, creating an incomplete look.

Common Causes:

• Sparse natural lashes: Some areas may have fewer lashes to work with
• Skipped baby lashes: Some technicians skip applying to tiny growing lashes
• Premature shedding: Extensions falling out faster in certain areas
• Insufficient coverage: Not enough extensions applied initially

Solutions:

• Consider volume lashes to increase coverage with fewer natural lashes
• Use a lash serum to encourage natural lash growth in sparse areas
• Discuss strategic lash mapping with your technician
• Schedule more frequent fills to maintain fullness

Communicating with Your Technician

The relationship with your lash technician is key to resolving problems. Don't hesitate to share concerns - good technicians welcome feedback and want you to love your results.

When discussing issues:

• Be specific about what's wrong and when it started
• Take photos to document problems
• Ask questions about what might have caused the issue
• Work together to find solutions for future appointments