In the competitive beauty landscape of Los Angeles, lash extensions have become more than just a trend — they’re a personalized, science-backed beauty ritual. Whether you’re considering Japanese AirLash, Hybrid Lashes, Volume 3D, or a Lash Lift, understanding the science of lash growth can dramatically enhance your results, retention, and lash health. At Lashes by Shigeru, we’re not just about aesthetics — we believe in educating clients about what lies beneath the surface: the biology of your natural lashes.
Understanding the Lash Growth Cycle
Natural eyelashes go through a continuous growth cycle, which is composed of three main phases:
- Anagen (Growth Phase): Lasts 30–45 days. Only 40% of upper lashes are actively growing at any time.
- Catagen (Transition Phase): A short phase where lash growth stops and follicles shrink.
- Telogen (Resting/Shedding Phase): Lashes fall out naturally and new ones begin growing underneath.
Why is this important? Because lash extensions adhere to existing natural lashes — and if a lash is in the telogen phase, it’s likely to shed soon after your application. That’s why lash shedding is normal, and why infills every 2–3 weeks are recommended.
How Our Services Align with Lash Science
1. Japanese AirLash Extensions
This innovative service is ideal for clients with weaker lash cycles. AirLash uses ultra-light Japanese fiber extensions and high-retention adhesive that won’t weigh down your follicles or disrupt lash health. Perfect for clients in early or active anagen phase who need minimal tension on the root.
2. Hybrid Lash Extensions
Because hybrid lashes mix 1:1 classic lashes with volume fans, we can selectively bond to stronger lashes in anagen phase while lightly filling in sparse areas in catagen/telogen phases. This ensures longer retention and a more even shed cycle.
3. Volume 3D Lash Extensions
3D lashes use ultra-fine volume fans, ideal for clients with sparse natural lashes. Our lash artists isolate lashes based on their growth phase, applying lighter fans to newly grown lashes and fuller ones to mature lashes for balance and longevity.
4. Lash Lift
This service is great for those in between lash extension appointments. A lash lift enhances the natural lash curl and boosts visibility without adding weight, keeping the follicle cycle uninterrupted while giving a lift to lashes in the telogen phase.
5. Lower Lash Extensions
Lower lashes grow at a slower rate and are often in telogen. We use a minimal approach that prevents premature fallout and ensures the integrity of your lower lash line.
6. Lash Extension Removal
Improper removal can damage follicles and disrupt the lash cycle. At Lashes by Shigeru, our professional-grade, oil-free removal method respects your natural lash cycle and supports healthier regrowth.
Factors That Affect Lash Growth and Retention
- Hormones: Pregnancy, stress, and menopause can alter the lash growth cycle.
- Age: Lash cycles slow with age, making extension maintenance more important.
- Diet & Nutrition: Protein, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids promote lash strength.
- Sleep Habits: Friction from rough pillowcases can weaken follicles.
- Skincare Products: Oil-based creams or serums can clog follicles and hinder growth.
Enhancing Lash Growth Between Appointments
To maintain lash health while enjoying extensions:
- Use a lash serum that stimulates follicles.
- Avoid excessive mascara or lash curling tools.
- Book timely refills to minimize breakage.
- Get professional removal — never pull or rub off extensions.
Why Trust Lashes by Shigeru?
Located in the heart of LA, Lashes by Shigeru is a results-driven lash studio grounded in both beauty and biology. We assess each client’s lash growth cycle during consultation to ensure custom mapping and tension-free application.
Our lash experts understand the intricate science behind lash retention, eye shape symmetry, and follicular strength. That’s why our techniques yield long-lasting, safe, and stunning results — whether you’re in Santa Monica, Koreatown, Brentwood, or Downtown LA.
Final Thoughts
If you’re investing in lash extensions in Los Angeles, don’t just focus on the end result — understand the science behind it. Lash growth biology impacts everything from retention to how your extensions will look in 3 weeks. At Lashes by Shigeru, every set is backed by technique, artistry, and scientific insight.
Ready to elevate your lashes the smart way? Book your appointment now and experience the future of lash beauty in LA — designed by science, perfected by Shigeru.
