What Is The Eyelash Growth Cycle?

Eyelashes have a growth cycle and for many people, it is not fast enough. Who doesn’t want beautiful long thicker eyelashes? It is for this reason people apply cosmetics, different types of eyelash conditioners and more recently, apply growth serums, and some apply false eyelashes. While we attempt ways to maximize the growth of our eyelashes, it is disheartening to find that the eyelashes might be getting thinner or even falling out.

Why do we have eyelashes?

Eyelashes are actually a protective cover for our eyes. Our eyelids open and close to keep the eye from getting dry, and the eyelashes protect from particles getting in and causing irritation to the eye. Irritations like smoke, dust, chemicals, or the accidental item being poked. There is a highly sensitive and complicated natural mechanism in the blinking of the eye which includes the eyelashes. Eyelashes are sensitive. If something is felt on an eyelash, it triggers a reaction for the eye to shut as a safety mechanism. Each person can possess between 200 to 250 eyelashes for each eye.

How do eyelashes grow?

Eyelashes have their own growth cycle that follows three steps:

The Anagen Phase – the first phase is known as the growth phase of the eyelash. This is when the eyelash takes root, grows to become longer and develops a level of thickness for approximately 30 to 45 days. Eyelashes will naturally have a stopping point for growth and it depends on the individual lashes.

The Catagen Phase – the second phase can last from 2 to 3 weeks. It is similar to a resting phase. The eyelash will not grow any longer or thicker and it actually may become slightly thinner. Finally it’s the Telogen Phase – this phase is the final phase of the eyelash hairs. This is the longest – just over three months – when the lash may continue to stand and eventually fall out, causing a new lash to grow beginning the cycle again.

It is not uncommon for a person to lose an occasional eyelash, and there is no need for concern should this occur. It is part of the growth cycle. If many lashes are being lost, it may be a good idea to reevaluate your habits to make sure that your eyelashes aren’t being rubbed or “man-handled” too much, causing them to fall out faster. If this still does not seem to satisfy the reason why the eyelashes are falling out, it may be best to seek medical help.