Let's be real: there's nothing quite like waking up with lashes so full and so long that they could cause a small breeze when you blink. No makeup? No problem! And that's because eyelash extensions are basically the beauty world's gift to the eternally late and the chronically glamorous.
But once your technician works their magic and the appointment (that you probs fell asleep in) comes to an end, the million-dollar question kicks in – how long are these little wispy extensions supposed to last before they start falling faster than your willpower during a Sephora sale?
Well, to find out, we spoke to one of the most renowned authorities in permanent makeup treatments, Karen Betts, who, with over 30 years of experience in the industry, knows exactly how long you can expect to bask in the fluttery glory of lash extensions. Plus, Karen shares the intel on what you should (and shouldn't) be doing to maximise their longevity.
Surprisingly, lash extensions aren't as long-lasting as a lash lift. "Lash extensions typically last 2 to 3 weeks before you’ll want a refill to keep them looking full," Karen says. "That timing aligns with your natural lash shedding cycle."
Eyelashes, like all hair on the body, go through a growth cycle. Some people have a longer cycle than others, while some may find that their lashes shed more quickly, meaning the longevity of eyelash extensions can differ from person to person.
At the Karen Betts clinics, technicians are taught to customise length, curl, and volume to suit each client's lash type. Karen says this is "the secret to comfortable, longer-lasting wear." So, don't be afraid to ask for what you want!
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Not only that, but Karen says that if you care for them well, you can stretch the time between appointments without compromising the look; "Think gentle cleansing, no rubbing, and avoiding oil-based makeup removers."
So, with that in mind, it's always best to double-check the ingredient breakdown of your makeup products and make sure to either skip or swap out any that are oil-based.
The more you know, hey!
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
