Eyelashes are not just a hallmark of beauty; they serve an essential function in protecting the eyes from debris and controlling airflow on the eye’s surface. Like all hair, eyelashes have a specific growth cycle, and understanding this cycle is key to promoting healthy lashes and dispelling common myths surrounding their growth and care.
Understanding Eyelash Growth
Eyelash growth can be broken down into three phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen.
- Anagen (Growth Phase)
This is the active growth phase for eyelashes, which can last between 30 to 45 days. Unlike the hair on our scalp, which has a longer anagen phase, eyelashes grow to a specific length and then stop.
- Catagen (Transition Phase)
During the catagen phase, the eyelash stops growing, and the hair follicle begins to shrink. This phase can last 2 to 3 weeks. If an eyelash falls out during this time, it won’t grow back until the catagen phase has ended.
- Telogen (Resting Phase)
This is the final stage before the eyelashes naturally fall out, and it can last about 100 days. At any given time, approximately 10% of our eyelashes are in this phase.
Dispelling Eyelash Myths
- Myth 1: Cutting Eyelashes Makes Them Grow Longer
Cutting eyelashes does not stimulate growth, as it does not affect the follicle from which lashes grow. This misconception is likely tied to the experience of cutting hair and observing an increase in thickness and strength, which does not translate to eyelash hair.
- Myth 2: Eyelashes Grow Back Thicker After Plucking
Unlike cutting, plucking can indeed affect the hair follicle. However, rather than promoting thicker growth, repeated plucking can damage the follicle, potentially leading to thinner lashes or even permanent loss.
- Myth 3: Mascara Causes Eyelashes to Thin
The act of applying mascara itself doesn’t cause lashes to thin. However, the repetitive process of putting on and especially removing mascara can lead to lash loss and damage if not done gently.
Promoting Healthy Lash Growth
Promoting healthy eyelash growth involves a combination of good hygiene, nutrition, and careful handling.
- Keep Lashes Clean
Removing makeup thoroughly and keeping the eye area clean are fundamental. Residual makeup can harbor bacteria and create a breeding ground for infections that hinder lash growth.
- Proper Nutrition
Just like scalp hair, eyelashes benefit from a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins (particularly biotin, vitamins B, D, and E), and minerals. These nutrients support hair strength and can aid in the growth cycle.
- Be Gentle
Avoid rubbing your eyes harshly and be gentle when applying and removing makeup. Mechanical stress can lead to lash breakage and loss.
- Conditioning Treatments
Just like other hair, lashes can benefit from conditioning treatments. Eyelash serums that contain peptides and natural oils can nourish lashes and help maintain their health. However, be cautious with products promising exaggerated results and always patch test new treatments to check for reactions.
- Avoid False Lashes
While extensions are safe, false lashes can lead to tension and weight on the natural lashes, potentially damaging them and affecting the growth cycle.
Professional Treatments
For those looking for extra help with lash growth, options such as prescription treatments that contain active ingredients like bimatoprost can be effective. These treatments can extend the anagen phase, resulting in longer, fuller lashes. However, they should be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects.
In conclusion, the growth of healthy eyelashes is a natural process that can be supported by understanding their growth cycle, dispelling common myths, and adopting healthy lash care practices. Embracing a holistic approach that includes good hygiene, gentle handling, nutrition, and appropriate use of cosmetics and treatments can lead to stronger, healthier lashes that not only look good but also continue to serve their protective function effectively.