How to Improve Your Lash Extension Retention: A Complete Guide
If you’ve ever wondered why some clients keep their gorgeous lash extensions for weeks while others start shedding in days, the answer almost always comes down to retention. Good retention isn’t magic—it’s a combination of proper technique, high-quality products, and consistent aftercare. Whether you’re a lash artist looking to up your game or a client wanting the most from your investment, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to maximize lash retention.
What Is Lash Retention?
Lash retention refers to how long lash extensions stay attached to the natural lashes before shedding. With proper application and maintenance, extensions should last at least 2–4 weeks on average—sometimes even longer!
Poor retention doesn’t always mean poor application. Lifestyle, environment, health, and aftercare can all play a role.
(A set of Russian lashes completed by a Pinkfishes Trainer)
Top Tips to Improve Lash Retention
1. Start With a Clean, Oil-Free Base
Any residue—makeup, skincare, sebum, sunscreen—can create a barrier between the lash and adhesive. Clean lashes = strong bond.
Artist tips:
Always wash lashes with a lash-safe cleanser.
Use a primer if needed (especially for oily eyelids).
Make sure lashes are completely dry before application.
Tips for your clients:
Arrive with clean, makeup-free lashes.
Avoid oil-based products around your eyes.
Here at Pinkfishes, our Pink Refine Shampoo is perfect for cleansing both lashes and brows and our Pink Creation Primer has amazing reviews on how much it helps with lash retention – both are must haves for your kits!
(How to prepare your clients lashes before their treatment)
2. Use the Right Adhesive for you—And Use It Correctly!
Not all adhesives are the same!Be sure to:
Choose an adhesive that matches your skill level (fast-drying glues require quicker placement).
Shake the bottle thoroughly to mix ingredients.
Replace your glue drop every 20–30 minutes.
Store adhesive in a cool, dark place.
Pinkfishes have a range of black and clear adhesives with different drying times to suit everyone – make sure you check them out and find the right one for you!
Pink Royalty is one of Pinkfishes Best Selling Adhesives.
(Pinkfishes Pink Royalty Adhesive - available on Pinkfishes.com)
3. Control the Environment (It Matters!)
Adhesive cure times depend heavily on humidity and temperature.
Too much humidity = adhesive cures too fast → weak attachment.
Too little humidity = adhesive cures too slow → lashes can fall off.
If you’re an artist: check the back of your adhesive box to find the ideal humidity and temperature for your glue.
We would also recommend storing your adhesive/s in the Pinkfishes Airtight glue storage tank with hygrometer. This will ensure you keep your lash room at the perfect humidity and temperature for your glue and help towards longer lasting retention for your lash sets!
4. Perfect Your Isolation
Poor isolation is one of the biggest causes of bad retention. If two natural lashes stick together, the extension can tug, twist, or fall out prematurely.
If you’re lashing:
Take your time.
Find a comfortable position for your hands when isolating.
Make sure each natural lash is individually isolated before placing an extension.
Nail your isolation and your retention will just keep on improving.
One of Pinkfishes most popular tweezers for isolation are the Straight Fibre Tip Tweezers.
(Pinkfishes Straight Fibre Tip Tweezers - available on Pinkfishes.com)
5. Don’t Use Too Much—or Too Little—Adhesive
Too much = clumpy lashes, poor flexibility and more risk of ‘stickies’.
Too little = weak bond that pops off quickly.
A good rule: dip 1/3 of the extension into the adhesive and as you pull it out of the glue dot, ensure there are no bubbles or excess glue dripping – you almost want it to look like there’s no glue on there, only a light shine under the light.
(Diagram from Pinkfishes Lash Training Manual)
6. Lash Placement Matters
Apply the extensions 0.5mm from the eyelid. A clean, straight bond will improve retention and comfort.
Avoid:
Angled placement. Try to place the extension as straight as possible sitting directly on top of the natural lash.
Sticking extensions on top of baby lashes.
Attaching to grown-out lashes.
(Diagram from Pinkfishes Lash Training Manual)
7. Teach Your Clients Proper Aftercare
Clients play a huge role in retention. Even perfect lashes can fail with poor aftercare.
Clients should:
Clean lashes daily with lash-safe cleanser.Clean lashes = better retention + healthier natural lashes.
Avoid rubbing, picking, or sleeping on their face.
Avoid oils around the eye area.
Brush lashes gently each morning and after showering using a clean and dry mascara brush.
Avoid waterproof makeup around the eyes.
Schedule infills every 2–3 weeks with your lash technician.
8. Use A Bonder/Sealant Wisely
Bonders cure adhesive from the outside in, reducing fumes and helping lashes stay flexible. Many artists have noticed maximised retention after using Pinkfishes Pink Elixir Sealant/bonder –This glue activator instantly bonds adhesive fumes making the eyelash application more comfortable for your clients and reduces the chances of irritation. It also acts as a sealant so when applied along the glue line will aid in retention!
(Video showing how to use Pink Elixir - by a Pinkfishes Trainer)
9. Focus on Lash Health
Healthy natural lashes hold extensions better.Clients can promote lash health by:
Avoiding harsh products.
Keeping lashes clean.
Using a lash serum daily – Pinkfishes Longer Lengths Lash Serum is amazing for growing hair and keeping it healthy. It can be used on both lashes and brows and is compatible with lash extensions.
(Pinkfishes Longer Lengths Serum - available on Pinkfishes.com)
10. Educate, Communicate, and Adjust
Retention issues can vary from client to client. Always:
Ask about skincare routines or lifestyle changes.
Adjust curls, lengths, or adhesives if needed.
Check for natural lash health each appointment.
Final Thoughts
Improving lash retention isn’t just about one factor—it’s the combination of proper prep, precise technique, a controlled environment, and consistent aftercare. When both the artist and the client understand their roles, retention naturally improves.
Great retention = happy clients, fuller lashes, and a thriving lash business!
If you would like to find out more of Pinkfishes top tips and tricks - why not take a look at some of our E-Learning videos?
