When we think about hair loss we often think of the hair on our head, but hair loss can occur wherever there is hair on the body. When it happens, it can be distressing regardless of where it is. Many women who experience shedding notice more hair on their clothing, in the shower and in their brush. But what does it mean when you suddenly see more eyelashes in your mascara wand or discover a patch of missing eyelashes? 

First let’s talk about eyelashes and what they do. Eyelashes are filters for the eyes. They protect against dust, debris and perspiration that can enter the eyes and irritate them. They help block out light. They also act like whiskers on an animal and can sense things coming at the eye, triggering the protective action of blinking. People average 90 to 150 lashes on the upper lid and 70 to 80 on the lower lid. The life span of an eyelash is only 30 to 45 days before falling out, one of the shortest of all of the hairs on the body. People lose on average one to five lashes a day. If you’re losing more than that or if a bald spot (alopecia) occurs, it’s time to investigate the reasons why.

The most obvious causes of eyelash loss are chemotherapy and trichotillomania, a compulsive hair pulling disorder. Putting those two aside, eyelash loss could be caused by thyroid issues, especially if it is accompanied by weight gain and fatigue. Autoimmune disorders can cause the immune system to attack the hair follicle resulting in alopecia areata, or bald spots. And, blepharitis, or inflammation of the oil glands in the eyelids, can also causes eyelash loss. Proper nutrition plays a vital in all hair growth, regardless of where it located on the body.

Other things that can make your lashes fall out are eyelash extensions and eyelash strips. It’s important to remove the lashes and the glue properly so the lashes aren’t pulled from their follicles. Be sure to take your make up off every night using a gentle eye makeup remover. Sleeping in mascara can make lashes brittle and bacteria can form in the follicles. Replace your mascara every three months and make sure all of your cosmetic brushes and sponges are clean. Eyelash curlers should be avoided as because they can pull lashes out of the follicle and over extended time, could lead to permanent eyelash loss. Last but not least, if you are tired and like rubbing your eyes, resist the temptation. Eyelashes are fragile!

The good news is, in most cases eyelashes grow back. Serums such as RevitaLash and Latisse can help lashes grow longer and fuller by extending their growth phase. I recommend RevitaLash because unlike Latisse, it doesn’t require a prescription. Also, Latisse contains an ingredient that can change your eye color. RevitaLash was developed by an ophthalmologist. It conditions and strengthens lashes, protecting them against breakage. 

If you are experiencing excessive eyelash loss, try some of the tips provided. If you’re experiencing hair loss on your scalp or other parts of your body, visit Hair Rejuvenation Center to help determine the underlying cause of your hair loss.

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