Babies do have eyelashes at birth. Although many new parents might wonder if their newborn is missing them, the hair follicles that produce eyelashes are fully formed before delivery. A newborn’s lashes can be incredibly subtle, making them difficult to spot at first glance. They are physically present, even if they appear nearly invisible or are obscured by the normal swelling that can occur right after delivery.
Eyelashes from Birth: Purpose and Initial Appearance
The development of eyelashes begins relatively early in the womb, with the hair follicles forming around the 20th to 22nd week of gestation. By the time a baby arrives, the lashes are structurally complete, having been a part of the fetal development process. Eyelashes serve a significant purpose beyond appearance, acting as a primary line of defense for the eyes.
Their primary biological function is to protect the delicate eye surface from environmental debris, dust, and tiny particles. The lashes also help to modulate airflow over the eye, which helps maintain the tear film and keep the eye moist. The lightest touch to an eyelash triggers the blink reflex, which immediately shields the eye from potential harm or excessive light.
Despite their protective role, newborn lashes often appear sparse or short to the naked eye. This is frequently due to their color; babies with light features, such as blonde or red hair, often have lashes that are so pale and fine they blend in with their skin tone. In premature babies, the lashes may be less developed because they did not complete the full growth cycle in utero. Whether immediately visible or not, the structure for healthy eyelash growth is established at birth.
How Infant Eyelashes Develop and Change
The appearance of a baby’s eyelashes can change significantly over the first few months and throughout the first year. The fine, pale hairs present at birth often begin to thicken and darken as the baby matures. This change is part of the normal growth cycle and is influenced by the baby’s developing melanin production and genetics.
For many infants, the lashes become noticeably more prominent and longer by around six months of age. It is common for parents to observe a period of shedding, as the infant hair follicles cycle through the telogen, or resting, phase. This temporary loss of hair is a normal part of the maturation process and is not typically a cause for concern in healthy babies.
The disproportionately large size of an infant’s eyes relative to their smaller face can make their lashes appear especially long and full. This visual effect is a common observation, and the resulting length is often maintained as the child grows. The full characteristics of the eyelashes—including final length, density, and color—will continue to establish themselves throughout the first year as the hair growth cycles stabilize.