How long does an eyelash extension really take?

The most important points in brief

Initial treatment (new set): Please allow between 1.5 and 3 hours. The exact duration depends on the chosen technique and the number of your natural lashes.
Refill: A refill appointment usually takes 45 to 90 minutes and is necessary every 2 to 4 weeks.
Technique is the deciding factor: A classic 1:1 technique is usually faster than a complex volume technique (2D, 3D, etc.).
Factors: The stylist's experience, your desired look, and the condition of your eyelashes influence the treatment time.
Long-term alternative: Eyelash serums can be a time-saving alternative to strengthen and lengthen your own eyelashes – without regular appointments.

A breathtaking gaze with long, thick lashes – who doesn't dream of that? Eyelash extensions are a popular way to make this dream a reality instantly. But before you book your first appointment, you're rightly asking yourself the crucial question: How long does an eyelash extension actually take?

This guide provides a realistic estimate of the time required for the initial treatment and regular touch-ups. This will help you plan whether this beauty luxury fits into your daily routine.

How long does the initial eyelash extension treatment take?

For your very first application, also known as a new set, you should allow yourself plenty of time. Artificial lashes are applied to each of your natural lashes. This precise process requires patience and a steady hand from the lash stylist – and from you, lying relaxed with your eyes closed.

Depending on the desired look and the density of your own lashes, a new set of extensions takes between 1.5 and 3 hours . During this time, your lashes are prepared and cleaned, and the extensions are carefully applied to achieve a seamless and long-lasting result.

The difference: 1:1 technique vs. volume technique

Not all eyelash extensions are the same – and that also affects the duration. The two most common methods are:

1:1 technique (classic): Here, a single artificial lash is glued to one of your natural lashes. This method creates a natural-looking result and is generally the faster option. A 1:1 eyelash extension appointment typically takes between 1.5 and 2 hours.
Volume technique (e.g., 2D, 3D, Russian Volume): For a more dramatic look, fans are created from several very fine artificial lashes and applied to a single natural lash. Fanning requires additional skill and time, so you should expect the procedure to take 2 to 3 hours .

Eyelash refill: How long does a refill appointment take?

Unfortunately, eyelash extensions don't last forever. Since your natural lashes have a growth cycle and fall out regularly, the extensions fall out with them. To maintain a full look, regular refill appointments are necessary.

The time required for a lash refill is significantly shorter than for a new set. A refill appointment typically lasts between 45 and 90 minutes . During this time, grown-out extensions are removed and new ones are applied to the newly grown lashes. How often you need a refill depends on your individual lash growth – on average, an appointment is needed every 2 to 4 weeks.

TRU BEAUTY TIP: Long lashes without the stress of appointments

You love the result, but the recurring time commitment and cost of refills don't fit into your schedule? The alternative is to strengthen your own lashes and fully utilize their growth potential.

With an eyelash serum, you invest less than a minute a day and achieve lasting results. Our LASH SERUM STRONG is designed to stimulate eyelash roots and extend the growth phase. Many of our over 90,000 satisfied customers see initial results after just 4 to 6 weeks.

For particularly sensitive eyes, we offer a hormone-free alternative with our LASH SERUM SOFT . And the best part: We are so confident in the effectiveness of our products, manufactured in Germany and dermatologically tested, that we offer a 3-month results-or-your-money-back guarantee .

These factors influence the duration of your treatment

Besides the technique, there are other factors that influence how long you spend in the beauty salon:

Number of your natural eyelashes: The more of your own eyelashes you have, the more extensions can be glued on – and this takes longer.
Stylist's experience: A professional often works faster and more precisely than a beginner.
Desired look: A very dramatic and dense look requires more eyelashes and therefore more time.
Care: Arriving at your appointment with clean, makeup-free eyelashes saves valuable preparation time.

Conclusion: A question of priorities

Eyelash extensions are a great way to achieve an instant wow effect, but they require a significant and, above all, regular time commitment. A full set can take up to three hours, followed by refill appointments of up to 90 minutes every few weeks. If you're happy to invest this time in your beauty routine, it's a wonderful option.

However, if you're looking for a lower-maintenance, long-term solution that focuses on enhancing your natural lashes, an eyelash serum could be the perfect choice for you. It's an investment in your beauty that pays off in the long run with minimal daily effort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does an eyelash extension appointment take the first time?

The first treatment, also known as the initial application, is the most time-consuming. You should plan for between 1.5 and 3 hours. The exact time depends on the chosen technique (e.g., classic 1:1 or volume) and the number of your natural lashes.

How long does it take to get an eyelash refill?

A refill appointment is significantly shorter and usually lasts between 45 and 90 minutes. This is necessary to replace lashes that have fallen out during their natural growth cycle.

Are eyelash extensions harmful to my natural eyelashes?

If eyelash extensions are applied professionally and correctly, your natural lashes should not be damaged. It's important that the extensions are a good match for your natural lashes in length and weight. Taking a break between extension appointments and using a strengthening serum like our Lash & Brow Starter Set can help keep your lashes healthy.

Can I use an eyelash serum together with eyelash extensions?

Yes, absolutely! Using an oil-free eyelash serum can even be recommended to strengthen your own lashes. Strong natural lashes can better support extensions, which can improve their longevity. Be sure to apply the serum only to the lash line and avoid contact with the adhesive. You can find more information in our FAQs .