Alopecia and Lash Extensions: What You Need to Know
Alopecia is a condition that causes hair loss, including the loss of eyelashes, which can have a profound emotional impact. For those who love the look and feel of lash extensions, you might wonder: can you still enjoy lash extensions if you suffer from Alopecia? The answer is yes—but with some important considerations.
How Does Alopecia Affect Lash Growth?
Alopecia affects the natural lash growth cycle by shortening or even halting the process of new lash development. The lash cycle typically has three phases: the anagen (growth phase), the catagen (transitional phase), and the telogen (resting phase). In people with Alopecia, the anagen phase may be disrupted, leading to shorter, thinner, or fewer lashes. This condition can be unpredictable, as some individuals experience partial hair loss, while others may lose all their eyelashes.
Can People with Alopecia Still Get Lash Extensions?
Yes, people with Alopecia can still get lash extensions, but the approach may need to be customized. Lash artists should assess the condition of the natural lashes to determine the best type of extension. Lighter, thinner lash extensions may be recommended to minimize stress on fragile natural lashes. It’s also important for individuals with Alopecia to communicate openly with their lash technician about the condition, so adjustments can be made to ensure safety and longevity.
How Frequently Should Alopecia Sufferers Come for Lash Fills?
Because Alopecia can cause lashes to fall out more quickly, individuals with this condition may need to come in for lash fills more frequently. While the typical fill schedule for most people is every 2 weeks, those with Alopecia might benefit from coming in every 1 week to maintain the appearance of fuller, natural-looking lashes. Regular touch-ups will also help ensure that extensions are applied only to healthy lashes.
Treatments to Strengthen Natural Lashes
There are treatments and serums designed to improve the health of natural lashes, which can be particularly beneficial for those with Alopecia. A few key ingredients to look for include:
Peptides: Help strengthen and nourish lash follicles to promote healthier growth.
Biotin: Supports keratin production, improving lash strength and resilience.
Castor Oil: A natural remedy known to nourish and moisturize the lash line, encouraging healthy growth.
At Glow Up Studio we recommend BL Lashes MD Advanced Lash Serum and BL Lashes Black Diamond Sealant. Both of which are Lash extension safe and sold in the studio.
MD Advanced is a scientifically advanced lash growth serum enriched with polypeptides and carnosine that promotes rapid growth in natural lashes and can be used with lash extensions. With regular usage, the serum can help achieve long, shiny, voluminous lashes with results in as little as 1 month. It also enhances the overall health of natural lashes, increasing effectiveness of lash extensions.
Usage: Wait 24 hours after your eyelash extensions have been placed. Then apply MD Advanced directly to both upper and lower lash lines to the base of the lashes. Ensure the serum is completely absorbed before you apply basic skincare and makeup. To achieve the best outcomes, apply the serum in the morning and again at night. It works better from 10 pm to 2 am when growth hormone is released.
Black Diamond Coating Sealant does for your lashes what a top coat does for nails! It forms a barrier around your lash extensions, protecting them from oil, water, sweat, and environmental chemicals that may break down lash adhesive. It is filled with nourishing ingredients such as essential B vitamins Panthenol and Biotin, Sodium Hyaluronate and Allanton, and 6 natural extracts that are proven to assist active hair growth. This scientifically researched combination of ingredients works to nourish, strengthen, and revitalize lashes for maximum retention while promoting healthy, stronger regrowth.
Usage: Wait 24 hours after your eyelash extensions have been placed to use. Apply sealant 2-3 mm from lash root avoiding eyeline skin. Can use dry lash wand to spread sealant throughout lashes.
For people with Alopecia, combining lash extensions with treatments like these can provide a boost to the natural lashes, making them stronger and better able to support extensions.
Conclusion
While Alopecia presents unique challenges, people with the condition can still enjoy the beauty and confidence that lash extensions provide. With the right approach—customized lash application, more frequent fills, and supportive treatments—those with Alopecia can maintain gorgeous, healthy lashes. If you have questions about how to safely proceed with lash extensions while managing Alopecia, we at Glow Up Studio are here to guide you every step of the way!