Understanding Eyelash Growth and Its Cycle

The Scientific View of Eyelash Growth

The biological process of eyelash growth is quite similar to that of other hairs on the human body. Each lash undergoes three distinct phases namely, the anagen (growth) phase, catagen (transition) phase, and telogen (resting) phase. The anagen phase generally lasts from 30-45 days and determines the length of our lashes. After the anagen phase, the lashes enter the catagen phase – a short transition period when the lashes stop growing. Lastly, in the telogen phase, new lashes start growing from the follicle pushing the old lash out causing it to shed. It's important to understand that each individual lash is at its own phase of the growth cycle which is why we don't lose all of our lashes at once.

Factors Affecting Eyelash Growth

Several factors affect the growth rate of eyelashes, these include age, overall health, hormonal changes, diet, stress, and certain medical conditions or treatments. Aging and hormonal changes often slow down hair growth which includes eyelashes as well. A balanced diet containing adequate proteins, vitamins, and minerals can promote hair growth. On the other hand, chronic illnesses or certain medications can hinder hair growth. Maintaining overall health, managing stress, and a balanced diet therefore plays a critical role in promoting healthy and efficient eyelash growth.

Why Do Eyelashes Fall Out?

Just like any other hair, eyelashes shed naturally as part of the hair growth process. But excessive eyelash loss can be a result of several reasons. These may include an allergic reaction to makeup or lash products, physical trauma from eyelash curlers, false lashes or extensions, certain medical conditions like blepharitis or alopecia, therapies like chemotherapy, and aging. Understanding why eyelashes fall out can help in avoiding these circumstances and promoting the growth of new, healthy lashes.

How Long Does It Take For Eyelashes To Grow Back?

Typical Growth Time for Eyelashes

After shedding, it typically takes about 6 to 8 weeks for an eyelash to fully regrow. If the lash has been pulled out or lost due to inflammation or injury to the eyelash follicle, this process may take longer. Just like the different growth rates of all hairs on our body, the growth speed of eyelashes also varies from person to person.

How To Speed Up Eyelash Growth

There is no guaranteed method to speed up the growth of eyelashes but certain steps might help. This can include maintaining a healthy diet, using gentle eye products, refraining from rubbing your eyes, limiting the use of eyelash extensions or curlers, and using a prescribed lash growth serum. These suggestions are not proven to fast-track eyelash growth, but they can potentially improve overall eyelash health and condition.

Evidence-Based Lash Growth Treatments

There are medically approved treatments available to help stimulate eyelash growth such as bimatoprost (Latisse®), an FDA-approved treatment used to stimulate eyelash growth. This prescription medication is applied to the base of the lashes to encourage growth. It’s important to note that results will vary from person to person, and not everyone will respond to certain treatments. Always consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment.

What To Avoid To Maintain Healthy Eyelashes

Common Damaging Practices

Repeated harsh treatment of lashes such as aggressive rubbing, overuse of mascara, frequent use of lash curlers, false lashes, or pulling can lead to lash damage and hinder growth. It's important to remove eye makeup gently every night and allow lashes to rest and rejuvenate.

Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices

Unhealthy habits such as smoking, lack of sleep, stress, and a poor diet can all lead to a slow eyelash growth cycle and even excessive eyelash loss. These factors can decrease the nutrients available for lash growth and cause damage to the hair follicles. Adopting healthy habits can help promote faster and healthier lash growth.

Ignoring Eye Health

Ignoring common eye ailments such as dry eyes, inflammation, allergies, and infections can lead to eye irritation and can even accelerate eyelash loss. Ensuring regular eye checkups and managing any eye conditions can positively affect lash growth.