Understanding the Natural Lash Growth Cycle

Have you ever noticed your lash extensions shedding and wondered if something’s wrong? The truth is, your natural lashes are constantly growing, shedding, and renewing—just like the hair on your head. It’s all part of a perfectly normal biological process known as the **lash growth cycle**.
Understanding how your natural lashes grow will help you better maintain your extensions, plan your fills, and appreciate the care your lash artist takes to protect your lash health.



The Three Phases of Lash Growth
Every one of your natural lashes goes through a growth cycle, which consists of three distinct phases:


1. Anagen Phase (Growth)

This is the active growth stage of a lash's life. During this phase, lashes are firmly attached to the follicle and grow continuously for about 30 to 45 days.



Only about 40 percent of your upper lashes and 15 percent of your lower lashes are in the anagen phase at any given time. That’s why you never lose all your lashes at once.


2. Catagen Phase (Transition)

Once the lash has finished growing, it enters the catagen phase. This is a short, transitional period lasting about two to three weeks. During this time, the lash stops growing and the hair follicle begins to shrink.



If a lash falls out during this phase, it won’t start growing again until the entire cycle completes.


3. Telogen Phase (Resting and Shedding)

This is the final stage of the lash life cycle and lasts around 90 days. In this resting phase, the lash is no longer growing and is eventually shed to make room for a new anagen lash to grow in its place. It’s completely normal to lose one to five natural lashes per day as part of this process.

Because your natural lashes are always in different stages of growth, your lash extensions will also shed gradually over time. This is why lash fills are needed every two to three weeks—to replace the extensions that have fallen out with your natural lash. Proper application matters. Professional lash artists only attach extensions to lashes in the anagen phase, which ensures strong retention and avoids damage to new or shedding lashes.


How to Support Healthy Lash Growth

While the growth cycle is a natural process, you can support it with a few good habits:
- Remove makeup gently and avoid rubbing your eyes
- Use lash-safe cleansers to avoid buildup
- Avoid oil-based products near your lash line
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, E, and biotin
- Schedule regular fills with a certified lash professional

Lash serums can also help condition your natural lashes and promote strength and retention throughout the growth cycle.
Trust the Process—and Your Lash Artist

At Honest Lash, we prioritize lash health and long-term results. Our trained lash artists understand the lash growth cycle and apply extensions in a way that works with your natural rhythm—not against it. By choosing a professional service and following proper aftercare, you’ll enjoy full, beautiful lashes that last while protecting your natural growth.