What causes eyelashes to fall out?
There are several potential causes for eyelashes to fall out or become thin and sparse:
Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss on the scalp, face or other areas of the body. With alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, causing them to stop producing hair. This can result in bald patches or complete hair loss, including on the eyelashes. Genetics and stress are risk factors for developing alopecia areata.
Low estrogen
Estrogen plays an important role in the hair growth cycle. Low estrogen levels during menopause or due to other hormonal changes can lead to thinning hair and eyelashes.
Medications
Certain medications like those for cancer, high blood pressure, heart problems, and depression can cause hair loss as a side effect. The eyelashes may be affected along with scalp hair. This type of hair loss is known as telogen effluvium. Once the medication is stopped, hair regrowth usually occurs within 6 to 9 months.
Eyelash mites
Demodex are tiny mites that live harmlessly on the skin and eyelashes of many adults. In some people, a buildup of these mites can cause inflammation, irritation, and hair follicle damage leading to eyelash loss.
Thyroid problems
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism have been associated with thinning eyebrows and eyelashes. The thyroid gland regulates many body functions and imbalances can show up in the hair. Treatment of the underlying thyroid problem is needed.
Nutrient deficiencies
Being deficient in certain nutrients like zinc, biotin and iron has been linked to hair thinning and loss. Brittle and sparse eyelashes could indicate you need more of these essential vitamins and minerals in your diet or supplements.
Aging
As we get older, it’s normal to experience some thinning of hair all over the body including the eyelashes. The lashes may become more sparse and fragile with age.
Overuse of cosmetics
Frequent use of eyelash curlers, mascara and eyelash extensions can cause eyelashes to get damaged, break and fall out prematurely. Letting your lashes rest periodically can help prevent bald spots.
How can I get my eyelashes to grow back?
If you are experiencing eyelash loss, there are a number of remedies that may help stimulate regrowth:
Castor oil
Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid which may help boost circulation to the follicles and encourage lash growth. Apply a small amount of cold pressed castor oil along the lash line before bed.
Coconut oil
The fatty acids and vitamins in coconut oil nourish the hair follicles. Gently massage coconut oil onto eyelids and lashes a few times per week.
Vitamin E oil
Vitamin E improves blood flow and repairs damage to the follicles. Try applying vitamin E oil to lashes every night.
Olive oil
Olive oil conditions the lashes and improves shine. Use a clean mascara wand to brush olive oil on lashes before bedtime.
Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel reduces inflammation and stimulates new hair growth. Apply aloe vera along the lash line once or twice daily.
Biotin supplements
Biotin is an essential B vitamin that creates the building blocks of hair. Take 2.5mg to 5mg of biotin daily in pill form to encourage thicker, healthier lashes.
Balanced diet
Eat a nutritious diet with adequate protein, iron, zinc and vitamins A, C, D and E to provide the nutrients hair needs. Salmon, nuts and green leafy vegetables are good choices.
Avoid rubbing eyes
Rubbing the eyes can traumatize the delicate eyelash follicles. Try not to rub your eyes and use eye drops if needed to relieve irritation.
Limit eyelash curling
Frequent eyelash curling can damage lashes. Limit use of eyelash curlers to special occasions to minimize breakage.
Be gentle removing makeup
Vigorously rubbing to remove eye makeup can pull out lashes. Use a gentle, oil-based makeup remover and cotton pads to protect lashes.
Try lash growth serums
Serums with peptides, prostaglandins or antioxidants may stimulate faster eyelash growth. Apply along the lash line once daily according to product instructions.
When to see a doctor
Consult a dermatologist or doctor if you experience:
– Sudden, patchy eyelash loss
– Loss of lashes on both upper and lower lids
– Breakage and shedding persists longer than 2-3 weeks
– Signs of infection like redness, pain, itching, crusting
– No regrowth after trying home remedies for several months
A doctor can evaluate for underlying causes like alopecia areata, hormonal imbalance, and medication side effects. Blood tests may be ordered to check thyroid levels and nutrient status. In some cases, prescription treatments like Latisse, steroid injections, or immunomodulating drugs may be recommended for stubborn eyelash loss. Most importantly, the doctor can rule out serious conditions requiring medical treatment.
Medical treatments for eyelash loss
If over-the-counter remedies are ineffective, doctors may prescribe the following medical treatments:
| Treatment | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Latisse | Latisse contains the active ingredient bimatoprost that stimulates eyelash growth. It’s applied daily along the upper lash line. |
| Growth factor therapy | Injections like Xelpros and Lumigan contain growth factors that promote lash regrowth. Effects can be seen in 1-2 months. |
| Eyelash implants | Plastic surgeons can surgically implant new eyelash follicles for permanent growth. This is an in-office procedure. |
| Immunosuppressants | For alopecia areata and other autoimmune hair loss, pills like methotrexate and corticosteroids calm the immune attack on hair follicles. |
Risks and side effects
Possible risks and side effects vary for each treatment but may include:
– Red, irritated eyes
– Darkening of the eyelid skin
– Excess hair growth
– Swelling
– Infection
– Thinning or lightening of adjacent hair
– Headache
– Nausea
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and report any unusual reactions. Often the benefits outweigh the risks for those with distressing eyelash loss unresponsive to natural remedies.
Home remedies for growing lashes
For mild eyelash shedding or breakage, natural home remedies are recommended as a first step. They are gentle, safe, and free of side effects when used appropriately. Here is an overview of popular natural approaches:
| Remedy | How to Apply | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut oil | Apply with a clean mascara wand along the lash line. | 2-3 times per week before bed. |
| Castor oil | Use a cotton swab to apply a thin line above lashes. | Nightly before bed. |
| Aloe vera gel | Use a small, clean brush to apply aloe above and below lashes. | 1-2 times daily. |
| Vitamin E oil | Gently massage a few drops into the lash line. | Every night before bed. |
| Olive oil | Dip a clean mascara wand into olive oil and brush on lashes. | Every other night before bed. |
| Biotin supplement | Take 2.5 – 5mg once daily with food. | Daily, consistently. |
Be patient, as it can take 2-3 months to see significant improvement. Discontinue if irritation develops and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Can eyelash growth serums help?
Over-the-counter eyelash growth serums are cosmetic products applied to the lash line to condition lashes and stimulate thicker, longer regrowth. Popular active ingredients in these serums include:
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Peptides | Peptides support lash regrowth and anchor the hair in the follicle. |
| Biotinoyl Tripeptide | Signals lash follicles to enter growth phase faster and prolongs growth cycle. |
| Arginine | An amino acid that acts as a building block of protein for healthy lashes. |
| Red Clover Extract | Contains biochanin A shown to stimulate faster eyelash growth. |
| Green Tea Extract | Powerful antioxidant that protects follicles from damage. |
| Biotin | Vitamin B7 supports keratin production needed for lash growth. |
Look for a serum with compounds targeting lash growth. Apply along upper and lower lash lines once daily. Results may take up to 8 weeks, so consistency is key. Make sure to carefully follow the directions.
Risks and considerations
When using an eyelash growth serum, keep these risks and precautions in mind:
– Can cause eye redness, stinging, blurred vision if gets in eyes. Use carefully along lash line only.
– Do not use if pregnant, nursing or have an eye infection/injury without doctor approval.
– Avoid if allergic to any ingredients. Discontinue if irritation develops.
– Do not apply to lower eyelid if only experiencing upper lash loss.
– Results vary by individual. May take 2-3 months to see improvement.
– Effects reverse if product is stopped. Maintain nightly application.
Consult an eye doctor if side effects occur. While relatively safe, some ophthalmologists recommend using lash serums under supervision.
Do eyelash growth cycles matter?
The eyelash growth cycle plays an important role in lash length, thickness and viability over time. Understanding the 3 phases can provide insight on how to promote healthy lashes:
Anagen phase – Active growth
The anagen phase lasts 30-45 days. Eyelash hair grows actively at a rate of about 1/2 mm per day. During this period, proper nutrition and avoiding damage can maximize growth.
Catagen phase – Transition
This transitional phase signals the end of active growth, lasting 2-3 weeks. The lash starts detaching from its blood supply and anchor in the follicle. Nothing can be done during this resting phase.
Telogen phase – Shedding
This final phase is when the eyelash fully detaches and sheds anytime between 30-60 days. Up to 40% of lashes are in the telogen phase at any one time. Here lash serums can target new hair emergence.
| Phase | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Anagen | 30-45 days | Active growth |
| Catagen | 2-3 weeks | Transitional rest |
| Telogen | 30-60 days | Shedding |
Coordinating care with the cycles allows targeted intervention during the prime growth and shedding periods for fuller lashes long-term.
Do lash serums permanently alter eyelash growth?
For many lash serums, the effects on eyelash growth are temporary and reversible:
– Growth encourages lasts as long as product is consistently applied along lash line
– When use is discontinued, lashes will gradually return to their previous condition as new hairs emerge
– Can help lashes appear fuller during use, but does not alter genetics long-term
However, some prescription treatments like Latisse contain compounds that can have lasting effects:
– Contains prostaglandin analog bimatoprost that stimulates growth receptors
– Helps grow both longer and thicker lashes that can last even after stopping
– Can permanently alter eyelash hair cycle to extend anagen (growth) phase
– Requires prescription and oversight by an eye care professional
Overall, non-prescription lash conditioners provide temporary enhancement while products like Latisse can potentially lead to permanent genetic changes in eyelash quality and growth over time. But results vary widely based on the individual and their underlying reasons for lash loss.
Conclusion
Dealing with lackluster lashes that are sparse or falling out can be frustrating, but a number of home remedies, growth serums and medical treatments are available to help regrow eyelashes. While genetics play a role, conditions like alopecia areata, aging, hormonal shifts and vitamin deficiencies often contribute to lash loss as well.
Determining the underlying cause with a doctor is the first step to successful treatment. Being consistent with recommended natural solutions or products can stimulate eyelash regrowth in a matter of weeks to months in many cases. With time and diligence, your eyelashes can regain their healthy, lush appearance.