It can be concerning when you notice more eyelashes on your pillow or in the sink than usual. You might wonder why it’s happening and what it means for your overall eye wellness.
There are many potential causes for lash shedding, so it’s helpful to understand the possibilities. The reasons for eyelash loss often range from your daily habits and natural growth cycles to underlying health factors.
If you’re concerned about your lashes, we can help you find a path forward to healthier lashes at a comprehensive eye exam.
Common Reasons for Lash Loss
Your daily habits and your body’s natural rhythms can both affect your eyelashes. Often, a few simple adjustments can make a positive difference. Let’s look at some everyday factors that may contribute to you losing eyelashes.
Makeup Habits & Hygiene
The way you apply and remove your makeup can impact your lash health. Heavy mascaras or harsh removal techniques may cause breakage and strain the hair follicles. Sleeping in your eye makeup can also clog follicles, leading to shedding and potentially causing your eyes to feel dry and itchy.
It’s helpful to be gentle around your eye area. You can use a mild makeup remover and avoid rubbing your eyes too hard. Giving your lashes a break from makeup every so often can also be beneficial.
The Natural Lash Cycle
Just like the hair on your head, eyelashes go through a natural growth cycle. They grow for a period, then rest, and finally shed to make way for new ones. It’s typical to lose between one and five lashes each day as part of this process.
This cycle means that some lash loss is completely normal and expected. If you notice a sudden increase in shedding, however, it might be time to look at other potential causes. Paying attention to these changes can help you understand what’s happening with your body.
Stress & Your Body
Stress can affect your body in many ways—including your hair and lashes. Periods of high stress can sometimes interrupt the normal hair growth cycle. This interruption may lead to temporary shedding a few months down the road.
When Lash Loss Signals a Health Concern
Sometimes, losing your eyelashes can be a sign of an underlying issue. Your eyes can offer important clues about your overall wellness. If you notice lash loss along with other symptoms, it’s a good idea to pay close attention.
Skin Conditions on the Eyelid
Certain conditions that cause irritation or inflammation around the eyelids can affect the follicles of your lashes. This can make it difficult for lashes to grow properly. You might notice symptoms like:
- Redness
- Itching
- Flaking skin
- Swelling
Managing the underlying skin condition often helps your lashes return to their normal cycle. Our approach to eye disease diagnosis and management can help determine the cause of the irritation. This helps you get the right care for your eyelids and lashes.
Hormonal & Nutritional Factors
Changes in your body’s hormones can sometimes lead to hair and lash loss. Your diet also plays a role in keeping your lashes strong and healthy. For instance, a vitamin deficiency can contribute to dry eye and may also weaken hair follicles over time.
How Your Eye Doctor in Yorba Linda Can Help
You don’t have to figure this out on your own. As your eye doctor in Yorba Linda, we can look at your total eye health to get a complete picture.
A Close Look at Your Eye Health
We use a variety of tools to get a magnified view of your eyes, eyelids, and lashes. This allows us to check for signs of irritation or other conditions that might go unnoticed.
A Personalized Care Plan
After your exam, we can sit down and discuss what we found. We can offer personalized advice based on your specific situation and needs. Our goal is to find a path forward that works for you and your lifestyle, reflecting the personalized care central to our practice philosophy.
Cosmetic Solutions & Lash Health
Many people look for ways to enhance their lashes for a fuller appearance. We can guide you toward choices that are both effective and gentle.
Safe Lash Enhancements
If you’re interested in aesthetic treatments to promote fuller-looking lashes, we can help. We offer services designed to improve your lash appearance while keeping your eye health a top priority. You can learn more about our approach to enhancing beauty through EYEsthetics.
Advice for Sensitive Eyes
If you have sensitive eyes, finding the right products can be a challenge. We can recommend products and routines that are less likely to cause irritation, as eye allergies can cause significant discomfort. This can help you enjoy your look without the discomfort of a reaction.
Daily Tips for Stronger Lashes
Simple daily habits can help you maintain healthy, strong lashes. Small adjustments to your everyday routine can have a positive impact. Here are a few things you can try at home to support your lashes.
A Gentle Cleansing Routine
Always remove your eye makeup before you go to bed. Use a soft cloth or cotton pad with a gentle, eye-safe cleanser. Pat the area dry instead of rubbing to protect your lashes from unnecessary friction.
Choose Your Products Wisely
You can consider using mascaras that are easy to remove with simple cleansers. Try to avoid waterproof formulas for daily use, as they can require more effort to take off. You can also replace your mascara every three months to prevent bacteria from building up in the tube, which can help you avoid infections like a painful corneal ulcer.
When you have concerns about your eyes or lashes, a conversation with a professional can provide clarity. Our team at Dr. Bittel Optometry is here to listen and help you find solutions for your eye health. Schedule an appointment to discuss your vision and lash health with us today.
