7 Reasons for Eyelash Loss and How to Treat It, According to Experts

Learn about the most prominent causes of eyelash loss with Harper's Bazaar Arabia, and discover when you might need to consult a doctor, as well as how to treat this problem!

Eyelashes play a significant role in influencing our makeup and overall appearance. Some women spend a lot of money on treatments and products to make their eyelashes look long and thick… yet they still fall out!

So, what are the most prominent causes of eyelash loss, and what do you need to do to treat this problem and maintain healthy, long, and thick eyelashes?

Causes of Eyelash Loss

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, it's normal to lose between one and five eyelashes in a single day. Sometimes, rapid eyelash loss (known as Madarosis) can be a symptom of an underlying health problem in the eye or another part of the body.

If eyelash loss isn't accompanied by hair loss on the scalp or eyebrows, it could indicate:

Irritation from cosmetics: Sleeping without removing makeup, especially mascara, as well as using false eyelashes and removing them incorrectly with an eyelash curler, can all damage the lashes and accelerate their loss. Eyelash loss can also result from an allergy to mascara or the glue that comes with false eyelashes.

Blepharitis: Itching or burning accompanied by redness or swelling of the eyelids indicates blepharitis. This condition occurs when blocked oil glands near the base of the eyelashes cause chronic inflammation and problems with the eyelash follicles.

Hair pulling: This is a condition where emotional or psychological distress causes a person to habitually pull out their eyelashes.

Skin cancer: In rare cases, localized eyelash loss can be a symptom of skin cancer on the eyelid. The cancer can interfere with eyelash growth as the malignant cells spread. If hair loss is occurring on the eyelids, eyebrows, and/or scalp, it may indicate an underlying systemic health problem or condition. The most common causes of total hair loss, including eyelash loss, are:

Alopecia areata: This condition causes the body to attack its own hair follicles, resulting in partial, complete, or patchy hair loss on the body, scalp, or face.

Thyroid disorders: The thyroid gland is located in the neck and controls the body's hormones. Both hyperthyroidism (overproduction of hormones) and hypothyroidism (underproduction of hormones) can cause eyelash loss and other types of hair loss. Other common symptoms of thyroid disorders include changes in weight, heart rate, and blood pressure.

When should you consult a doctor about eyelash loss? If you are experiencing eyelash loss on both eyelids

If you are experiencing hair loss from your eyebrows or scalp

If you are also experiencing skin changes such as itching, redness, or flaking

If you feel pressure around your eyes

Or if you are experiencing any vision loss.

What you need to maintain healthy, long, and thick eyelashes: Wash your face and eyelids daily with water and a gentle soap. The glands in your eyelids naturally lubricate your eyelashes, so lotions and moisturizers are not necessary unless your eyelashes feel excessively dry.

Follow a healthy diet that includes protein, fruits, vegetables, and sufficient iron, which also helps maintain long and full eyelashes.