Most people think that eyelashes are only there for cosmetic purposes but there is more to that. Lashes give your eye the protection it needs from debris which can obstruct vision or cause infection or injury. It is natural for eyelashes to fall out as they grow because they go over a natural cycle of replacing them every six to ten weeks, just how our hair grows on top of our head.
Do not worry if your eyelashes fall because it is normal to lose between one and five eyelashes each day. Madarosis or more rapid lash loss can indicate that it is a symptom of an underlying health problem in the eye or other parts of the body. There are numerous reasons why people can lose more lashes than average which includes:
- You are irritated with the cosmetics you are using. Leaving eye makeup for a long time, using and removing lash extensions, and using eyelash curlers whether it is heated or non-heated can harm lashes and cause them to shed. Allergies to mascara and the glue used to apply eyelash extensions can also result in eyelash loss.
- Blepharitis can cause chronic inflammation and problems in the eyelash follicles.
- Trichotillomania is a psychological distress or emotional condition that makes a person habitually pull out their eyelashes.
- Cancer has the ability to interrupt eyelash growth as the harmful cells spread.
How Can I Know That My Lash Loss Is Serious?
Consult your physician immediately if:
- the lash loss occurs in both lids;
- you are losing hair on the scalp and eyebrows;
- you are experiencing skin changes such as itching, redness, or scaling;
- you feel pressure around your eyes; or
- you are experiencing any vision loss.
Is It Safe to Use Eyelash Growth Enhancers?
There are several products available in the market that promote lash growth. Latisse is an FDA-approved prescription eyelash growth treatment but it carries risks such as ocular and eyelid irritation. You may find it easy to get over-the-counter lash serums but it can cause sensitivity or adverse reactions to some people. Make sure to consult your ophthalmologist before using any product.
The safest way to keep lashes healthy is to wash face and eyelids gently with soap and water. The glands in the eyelid lubricate the lashes naturally. Make sure to have a healthy diet that includes proteins, fruits, vegetables, and sufficient iron that will help with the health and maintenance of full and long eyelashes.
