Leaving eye makeup on too long, using and removing lash extensions and using eyelash curlers (heated or non-heated) can all harm lashes and speed up shedding. Eyelash loss can also stem from allergies to mascara and from glue used to apply eyelash extensions.
Your lashes grow through your eye follicles. The older we get, the slower our growth process becomes. This is how your lashes start to thin out.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, if the eyelashes get singed but the hair follicles are still intact, the lashes will usually grow back in 6 weeks. However, if the hair follicles were also damaged, the eyelashes might not grow back.
Apply Natural Oils and Gels
Moisturizing agents like castor oil (do not use if you are pregnant), coconut oil, and aloe vera gel may help to encourage hair growth by nourishing lashes and preventing breakage.
Castor oil: Apply a small amount of castor oil on the eyelashes each night before bed and wash it off in the morning. Aloe vera: Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel on the eyelashes before bed and wash it off in the morning. Eyelid massage: Gently massage eyelids along the lash line.
Vaseline is an occlusive moisturizer that can be used effectively on dry skin and eyelashes. It can't make eyelashes grow faster or longer, but it can moisturize them, making them look fuller and lusher. It isn't right for everyone, though.
According to board-certified dermatologist Jeanine Downie, M.D., stress is very much a factor in eyelash loss. Just as stress can lead to increased hair shedding, an increase in anxiety can cause a similar effect on those tiny lash hairs.
"Just like you condition your hair, you need to condition your lashes," Graf says. Her simple suggestion is to put a thin layer of Vaseline or Aquaphor over your lids at night. Over-the-counter lash conditioners can also help. They usually contain ingredients to strengthen and moisturize lashes.
There is no scientific research to support the theory that castor oil will make eyelashes grow longer or thicker. However, it may help increase the luster of eyelashes, making them appear thicker and glossier.
Biotin is a B vitamin that is known for stimulating new cell growth, essential for regrowing fallen lashes. For this reason, a biotin deficiency can be linked to hair loss and, in turn, lash fall. Biotin can be found in eggs, almonds, cauliflower and other vegetables, as well as Vitamin B supplements.
Unfortunately, thinning eyelashes are part of the aging process. So, if your lashes don't seem to have the same length and fullness they once did, don't worry, in most cases, there's no reason for alarm. Still, you should share any concerns with your health care provider.
Although Vaseline does not make your eyelashes grow longer, it can help to keep your lashes hydrated by locking in moisture and, in turn, preventing lash breakage. Vaseline is very gentle and when applied to your eyelid can often make your lashes appear thicker.
Castor oil is a vegetable oil that is derived from the bean of the castor tree. The fatty acids that make up castor oil are believed to be extremely nourishing to the skin. Many people report that with regular application, castor oil has helped them to grow thicker, longer eyelashes and eyebrows.
Lash loss with redness, itchiness or flaking on the eyelids. Eyelash loss and vision changes. Lash loss and a feeling of pressure around the eyes. Loss of eyelashes, in addition to hair on the scalp or eyebrows.
But irregular functioning of T3 and T4 can cause that regrowth cycle to be disturbed — meaning you might notice thinning hair over time, without replacement. This could affect your eyebrows, body hair, and eyelashes, too. It might fall out in clumps or strands.
Regardless of the reason for your hair loss, your eyelashes should grow back as long as the hair follicles and internal hair structures are intact, Green says. However, if the hair follicles are damaged, as can be the case with skin cancer, eyelash loss may be permanent.
Is castor oil safe for eyelashes? In general, yes, castor oil is safe for eyelashes, according to Dr. Haberman.
Castor oil versus lash serums.
Efficacy-wise, there isn't much of a difference between using straight castor oil and those castor-oil-infused serums. The only difference is that the lash serums probably lend a more appealing application.
So just how long does it take to see results? With regular use, lashes should have less breakage and have more luster in two to three weeks, says Dr. Sonia Batra, a board-certified dermatologist and co-host of The Doctors.
Just like the hair on your head, the strands on your lids need TLC, too. Bowe recommends applying a hydrating product like Vaseline or Aquaphor before bed to soften lashes and prep them to grow longer and stronger. "Put it where you put eyeliner—not on your actual lashes," says Bowe.