What Causes Eyelashes to Fall Out

Eyes are the most important feature of our face. Long and dense eyelashes enhance the look of our eyes. Moreover, eyelashes protect our eyes from small dust particles. Also, they are highly sensitive and help the eye react to unexpected debris.

If an eyelash is plucked out, it takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks for it to grow back. The condition of loss of eyelashes is known as ciliary madarosis. It is derived from the ancient Greek word 'Madaros', which means 'bald'.

Aging is one of the most common problems leading to hair loss. With overall hair loss, losing eyelashes is also a problem caused due to aging. Hormonal changes occurring in a woman's body during and after menopause are known to result in loss of eyelashes.

Even if your age is the cause of excessive loss of eyelashes, consulting a medical practitioner can help solve the problem. Including the necessary nutrients and intake of a healthy diet is of prime importance in case of aging-related loss of eyelashes.

Inflammation of eyelids called blepharitis is amongst the most common eye problem causing loss of eyelashes. Inflammation can be caused due to an infection from parasites, like demodex mite or Staphylococcus aureus bacteria leading to the fall out of eyelashes.

While a waxy collection forms around the base of eyelashes due to demodex eyelash mite, Staphylococcus aureus leads to golden flakes between them. An eye sty infection can lead to a loss of eyelashes as it clogs the eyelid oil glands. D. folliculorum, an infection caused due to mites, can cause inflammation of follicles of eyelashes leading to this problem.

Excess use of cosmetic products for eye makeup, especially mascara can lead to this problem. Using bad quality products can prove to be really harmful. Use of such cosmetics after their expiry date, using unclean application tools, or leaving makeup overnight can cause the eyelashes to fall.

One of the most common grooming tools that can harm the eyelashes is an eyelash curler. This tugs and pulls on the eyelashes, which can lead to their breakage. Using it in a proper way and carefully might help. Allergy to certain cosmetics and creams can also lead to their loss.

Tichotillomania is a psychological condition in which the person suffering develops an urge to pull out his/her own hair. Apart from adults and youngsters, it is also known to affect kids as young as one year old.

People suffering from this condition tend to pull out the roots from eyelashes, eyebrows, scalp, or public areas. Trichotillomania can commonly be genetic and it is a type of compulsive behavior.

Alopecia areata is a condition in which the body attacks its own hair follicles causing them to get suppressed. It is an autoimmune disorder usually affecting the scalp but can also be confined solely to the eyelashes. Hyperthyroidism can also be one of the contributory factors.

Thyroid disorders commonly affect normal hair growth. Harsh rubbing of eyelids or eyelashes is one of the most common cause of falling eyelashes.

If you are losing eyelashes, try to know the exact cause by consulting a doctor. In initial stages, try skipping cosmetics and follow a proper eye care regime to check for any improvement. In case of problems like infection and other health conditions, seek the help of a doctor to know the right course of treatment for getting your lovely eyelashes back.

Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.