Eyelashes do more than just make our eyes look beautiful. They play a vital role in protecting our eyes from dust, debris, and sweat. Understanding the science behind eyelash growth and the factors that influence it is key to maintaining and enhancing the beauty of your lashes. Like the hair on your head, eyelashes go through a natural cycle of growth and eventual shedding.
The eyelash growth cycle consists of three main phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. Each lash is on its own individual journey through this cycle, which is why some lashes are long and strong while others are short and barely visible. Each person typically has about 150-200 natural lashes per eye on their upper eyelids, and 75-100 on the lower lids. Regardless of differences in length, thickness, and color, everyone’s lashes follow the same three-phase growth cycle.
The anagen phase is the active growth period for eyelashes, lasting around 30 to 45 days, or anywhere from 4-10 weeks. During this time, the hair follicle is firmly attached to the dermal papilla, and the cells in the hair bulb are rapidly dividing to create new hair. About 40 percent of your lashes are in this phase at any given time.
The duration of the anagen phase can vary based on several factors. Genetics play a significant role, with some people genetically predisposed to longer anagen phases, resulting in longer lashes. Additionally, age and hormonal changes can influence the length of the anagen phase. Younger people typically have longer anagen phases than older people, resulting in more robust lash growth. External factors such as diet, stress levels, and overall health can also impact the anagen phase. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for hair growth. These include vitamin D, iron, and protein.
The catagen phase is a short transitional stage that lasts around 2 to 3 weeks. In this phase, the hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the dermal papilla, cutting off the blood supply to the hair. Lashes reach their maximum length, and growth halts. If a lash falls out during this phase, it won't start growing back until this phase is over.
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The telogen phase is the resting stage, which lasts about 100 days, or 3-4 months, before the lash naturally falls out. During this time, a new hair begins to grow from the hair follicle, eventually pushing out the old hair. During this phase, the old hair rests while a new hair begins to grow underneath it. There’s no reason to get worried about normal lash shedding, as they are just making room for new ones. Because each individual lash is in its own phase of the cycle, it’s normal for a few lashes to fall out every day. It usually takes 4-8 weeks to fully replace a lash.
During the telogen phase, the hair follicles remain dormant before re-entering the anagen phase to initiate new lash growth. This resting period allows the follicles to replenish their energy stores and prepare for the next cycle of growth. Factors such as hormonal fluctuations and environmental stressors can influence the duration of the telogen phase. For example, changes in hormone levels during pregnancy or menopause can disrupt the hair growth cycle. This can lead to increased hair shedding during the telogen phase, a condition called telogen effluvium.
Several factors can influence the eyelash growth cycle, including genetics, age, hormones, medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle choices.
Your genetic makeup significantly impacts your eyelash growth cycle. Some people are naturally blessed with longer, thicker lashes than others. Genetics play a significant role in determining lash length, thickness, and growth rate.
As you age, the growth rate of your eyelashes can slow down. Younger people typically have longer anagen phases than older people, resulting in more robust lash growth.
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Hormones play a crucial role in hair growth, including eyelashes. Changes in hormone levels, like during pregnancy, menopause, or due to certain medical conditions, can sometimes affect how your lashes grow and shed. If you notice any significant changes in your lash growth, it’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor to rule out any underlying causes.
Certain medical conditions, such as alopecia areata or blepharitis, can affect the growth and health of your eyelashes. Some medications can have side effects that influence eyelash growth.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for healthy hair growth. Nutrients like biotin, proteins, and vitamins are essential for healthy hair growth. High levels of stress can trigger hair loss, including eyelashes. Adequate sleep is vital for overall health, including hair growth.
Using mascara, eyelash extensions, and false lashes can affect the health of your natural lashes. Damage can cause hairs to break off mid-cycle. Being too harsh on your lashes while removing makeup or using a lash curler can result in premature shedding.
Maintaining clean eyelids is crucial for eyelash health. Good hygiene practices reduce the chances of the eyes developing a bacterial, fungal, or mite infection and eye inflammation. Inflammation of the eye or blepharitis may show itself as itchy, red, swollen, or irritated eyelids. Depending on the cause of an infection, a patient might need to take medications to clear up any issues with the eyes before regrowth can take place.
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To keep your lashes healthy throughout the lash cycle, follow these expert tips:
During an evaluation of the anterior segment of the eye, eye care professionals (ECPs) need to assess the normalcy of several structures including eyelashes. There are several terms in the literature that define anomalies of hair anywhere on the body, however some are specific for eyelashes. There is a consensus on most definitions on eyelash anomalies with the exception of hypertrichosis and trichomegaly. The term hypertrichosis is commonly misinterpreted as a synonym for trichomegaly, even though they have distinct definitions. Hypertrichosis is defined as an increase in hair in any part of the body, whereas trichomegaly is specific for eyelashes and eyebrows. Also, the terms madarosis and milphosis are often confounded.
Depending on the etiology, a single pathology or several lash pathologies may be present simultaneously. It is essential for ECPs to first determine the etiology of the lash pathology to select the appropriate management. In the particular case of milphosis without a clear etiology, ECPs must consider a psychiatric disorder called trichotillomania as a possible causal factor, regardless of the concomitance of eyebrow and/or hair madarosis. Trichotillomania is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to pull out hair from any part of the body and a referral for a psychological evaluation should be considered.
Eyelashes form a barrier between the external and internal environment of the eye, making them extremely sensitive to a variety of threats and irritants. They are highly innervated to perform that function. Eyelashes are an integral part of the lid margin anatomy, much like the Meibomian glands, eyelid skin and biofilm, each contributing to the overall homeostasis of the ocular surface. As such, it is important to maintain their integrity. As a whole, the lid margin is responsible for the production of the tear film lipid layer and the protection of the eye from external trauma.
Aerodynamic studies have highlighted the important role of lashes in the protection of the eye. Optimal lash lengths decrease evaporation and particle deposition. Short lashes created a zone of airflow stagnation above the ocular surface, while long lashes pushed the airflow toward the ocular surface. Based on these studies, any alterations of lash length, be it with certain pharmaceuticals or cosmetic procedures (i.e. lash extensions), would have an impact on the protective effect of the ocular surface.
Over-the-counter lash serums can promote lash growth by nourishing the hair follicles. Eyelash growth serums, often containing peptides and natural oils, can nourish lashes and stimulate growth. Specific prescription serums may help stimulate eyelash growth, so lashes grow fuller, longer, and faster. A consultation with a medical provider is necessary to obtain a prescribed eyelash growth serum.
Recent advancements in cosmetic science have led to innovative treatments for eyelash growth, including FDA-approved serums and laser therapies. FDA-approved eyelash growth serums contain active ingredients like bimatoprost, which have been clinically proven to enhance lash growth. Laser therapy, a newer technique, stimulates hair follicles to encourage growth.
Understanding your eyelash growth cycle is essential for maintaining healthy and beautiful lashes. By acknowledging the biological and environmental factors that influence lash growth, you can adopt habits and routines that support healthier, fuller lashes. By following simple tips like gentle makeup removal, using lash serum, and handling your lashes with care, you can ensure that your lashes remain in optimal condition throughout the cycle. With proper attention and maintenance, you can enjoy lush, healthy lashes that enhance your natural beauty. While individual differences may influence the pace of lash growth, consistent care and nourishment will help you achieve your desired lash goals over time.
The rate of lash growth varies from person to person. Factors like genetics, age, overall health, and lifestyle can affect it. Genetics play a significant role in determining lash length, thickness, and growth rate.
The three phases in your lash cycle are anagen (active growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (rest and renewal).
