Why Are My Eyelashes Falling Out? And What to Do About It

If you're on a quest for long, lush eyelashes (and who isn't?), you may be troubled by a few rogue lashes that have fallen onto your face — but don't be. Losing a few lashes daily is totally normal and not worth batting an eye over. Just like the hair on your head, your eyelashes go through a natural growth, loss, and regrowth cycle. It's only when you notice a significant amount of eyelashes falling out that you may want to take a closer look. In fact, there are certain habits that may be damaging your lashes. We tapped experts to learn about these common causes of lash loss, along with tips for keeping your eyelashes long, strong, and healthy.

Using Eyelash Curlers

If you're someone with long lashes that stick straight out, you probably never go a day without using your lash curler. Unfortunately, repeatedly using a lash curler can cause weakening of the hair which can eventually lead to breakage.

"Eyelash curlers clamp down on lashes to create the curl effect," explains Clementina Richardson. "When you repeatedly clamp down on the same area, it causes physical damage to the lashes by weakening [the hair], which can cause it to break off."

The best method of protection for your lashes is to avoid lash curlers altogether. However, if you're careful and use it sparingly, like on special occasions, Dr. Annie Gonzalez says to use the curler before applying any mascara. "Mascara will make the lashes stiffer and can lead to cracking," she says.

Also, Richardson says to make sure your lash curler is clean of any sticky mascara residue because that can also pull out the lashes when you open the clamp.

Stress

"Stress can lead to an increase in hair shedding on your head, and it can have a similar impact on your eyelashes," says Dr. Gonzalez. "Stress pushes hair follicles into the telogen phase, also known as the dormant phase, which causes hairs to fall out." This could be a result of physical or emotional stress.

Luckily, Dr. Gonzalez says that the hair does rejuvenate with time once the stressors are removed. So, if you aren't already, consider this a gentle reminder to prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, because it continues to prove to be beneficial in all aspects of our lives.

Eyelash Extensions and Lash Lifts

"Getting eyelash extensions and lash lifts can sometimes cause a little fall out of your natural lashes if not done properly," says Dionne Phillips. "Be sure a licensed experienced professional such as an esthetician or cosmetologist is providing these services."

An experienced lash expert will be able to choose the right size of lashes to adhere to so that they don't weigh down your natural lashes, explains Richardson. You'll also want to make sure you're seeing a professional for the removal process. "You want to make sure that they're not tugging it off and pulling your natural lashes along with it," she tells InStyle.

Wearing Mascara Overnight

We all know sleeping with makeup is a major no-no. However, sleeping with mascara can cause harm to your lashes in more ways than one. "Mascara can cause your lashes to fall out due to clogging the hair shaft," explains Phillips. "The hair shaft needs to be clean and filled with nutrients to stop it from getting dry or becoming clogged with excessive oil."

Additionally, sleeping with mascara can also increase the chances of bacterial infections, says Dr. Gonzalez. "When you rub your eyes throughout the day, it allows bacteria a chance to get in," she says. "If a proper product isn't used to cleanse the mascara, inflammation, irritation, and infection can occur, which ultimately can result in lash loss." Mascara can also make your lashes stiff, and it can be easier to rub off when you're sleeping, explains Richardson, which leads us to the next point.

Rubbing Your Lashes

"Anytime you're rubbing or tugging your lashes aggressively, you can pull them out and weaken them," says Richardson. Try not to rub or tug on the lashes and remember to always be gentle when removing makeup.

Trichotillomania

In severe cases, one can experience trichotillomania — a hair-pulling disorder that involves recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out hair on different areas of your body. Trichotillomania is a long-term disorder that requires the professional help of a medical or mental health expert to get under control.

Bottom Line

Ultimately, when it comes to taking care of your lashes, remember, it's all about being gentle and keeping them clean. If you want to go the extra step, incorporate a lash serum into your routine. And if despite following these tips, you're noticing continuous lash loss, we recommend making an appointment with your doctor to discuss the best action plan for you and your lashes.