Debunking Fall Lash Shedding Season

The “fall lash shed” is a hot topic every year in the lash community. Many lash artists claim that clients experience a massive increase in natural lash shedding during the fall season, leading to retention issues. But is this really happening, or are we just seeing the effects of changing environmental conditions?

I personally believe that the so-called “fall shed” is often misunderstood. Rather than being a universal event affecting all clients, it’s more likely caused by changes in the environment - specifically, fluctuations in humidity and temperature - that disrupt how our adhesives perform. Let’s dig into the science behind human hair cycles and how environmental factors can impact lash retention. 

When I was a young lash artist I believed wholeheartedly that the fall shed was a real thing and that I experienced it on most of my clients. However, the more I learned about lash adhesive and how it worked, the more I was able to manipulate my room conditions. Before long, the Fall Shed became much less of an issue in my lash business. So much so, that when clients would bring it up toward the end of summer I would tell them that it’s nothing to worry about. 

The Human Hair Growth Cycle: Shedding Isn’t Just A Seasonal Thing

Human hair, including eyelashes, follow a growth cycle with three distinct phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting/shedding). Most studies show that hair shedding can be influenced by individual genetics, hormonal changes, and even environmental stressors, but there isn’t strong evidence supporting a widespread “fall shed” for all clients across the board. Research suggests that seasonal shedding patterns are more likely to vary based on personal characteristics rather than a one-size-fits-all scenario.

Studies have indicated that people in temperate climates might experience slight increases in hair shedding during late summer or early fall. This may be due to increased sun exposure in the previous months, but the effects are usually subtle and not uniform across all individuals . This means that the extent of seasonal shedding will depend heavily on your client’s location, hair type, and unique physiology.

Some lash artists argue that the “fall shed” is comparable to the way dogs and cats shed their coats seasonally, suggesting that humans - being mammals too - should follow similar patterns. But the reality is, human hair cycles operate very differently from those of furry mammals. Animals that shed seasonally do so to regulate their body temperature based on the changing weather, which is why dogs and cats have thicker coats in the winter and shed them in the spring and fall. Humans, on the other hand, don’t grow a seasonal “coat.” Our hair follicles follow individual cycles that are less tied to seasonal changes and more influenced by factors like genetics, hormones, and overall health . So while the comparison seems logical on the surface, our hair growth and shedding patterns are fundamentally different from those of our four-legged friends.

Environmental Factors: The Real Culprit Behind Poor Retention?

Here’s where I think the “fall shedding lashes” myth takes root: when the seasons change, so does the air. During fall, many regions see a significant drop in humidity, and as we start using indoor heaters, the environment in our lash rooms changes dramatically. Low humidity can cause your adhesive to dry too slowly, leading to poor attachment and, ultimately, more lash loss. These retention issues are often mistaken for a sudden “lash shed” event.

Temperature Changes And Lash Adhesive Performance

It’s not just about humidity; temperature plays a crucial role too. When the temperature in your lash room drops, your adhesive’s curing time slows down, causing the lashes to detach. On the flip side, if your room is too warm from a heater, the adhesive may cure too quickly, leaving you with a weak attachment. So, what feels like a seasonal shed might actually be your adhesive not working properly due to changing room conditions.

Best Practices To Combat Environmental Challenges

Instead of blaming the fall shed, focus on maintaining a stable environment for your adhesive. Here are some tips:

Keep An Eye On Your Lash Room’s Humidity And Temperature: Use a hygrometer and thermometer to monitor your workspace. The ideal humidity range is between 45% and 60%, and the temperature should be between 69-74°F. If the humidity drops, consider using a humidifier, and if it spikes, a dehumidifier.

Consider Using A Humidity Support Product: Products like PLA’s Glue Support can help create the perfect environment for your adhesive to cure properly. Apply a small amount to your lash strip before starting your set to stabilize the curing process. This prevents the issues caused by low humidity, especially during the colder months and helps to speed up the curing process.

Adjust Your Adhesive: In extreme low-humidity conditions, switch to a faster-drying adhesive to keep up with the environment. If the humidity is higher than usual, opt for a slower adhesive to avoid premature curing.

Final Thoughts

While there’s some evidence to suggest that hair can shed seasonally in certain climates, I don’t believe that every lash artist will experience a massive lash loss event every autumn. More often than not, it’s the changing environment—humidity, temperature, and even indoor heating—that impacts your adhesive’s performance, leading to poor retention.

By making small adjustments to your workspace and choosing the right products, you can combat these seasonal challenges without missing a beat. So, the next time someone blames the “fall shed,” take a step back and look at your environment first. With the right approach, you can avoid the “fall shed” altogether!

- Chris Carr