Eyelashes are specialized, short hairs that play a protective role for the eye, shielding it from debris and dust. If an eyelash is accidentally or intentionally pulled out, the follicle, which is the root structure beneath the skin, is usually left intact. This means that in the vast majority of cases, the eyelash will grow back naturally. The regrowth process depends entirely on the health of this follicle and where the hair was in its natural cycle when it was removed.
Understanding the Eyelash Growth Cycle
The biological mechanism that permits regrowth is the hair follicle’s ability to cycle through three distinct phases. This cycle ensures that not all lashes fall out simultaneously, maintaining a protective barrier for the eye. The initial stage is the Anagen phase, the active growth period where the hair is physically attached to the dermal papilla, which provides nutrients. This active phase for an eyelash typically lasts between 30 and 45 days.
Following active growth, the eyelash enters the Catagen phase, a short transitional period lasting about two to three weeks. During this time, the eyelash stops growing, and the hair follicle begins to shrink and detach from its blood supply. If an eyelash is pulled out while it is in the Catagen phase, the follicle must complete this transitional stage before it can reset and begin new growth.
The final stage is the Telogen phase, a resting period lasting several months before the old lash sheds. A new hair begins to form in the follicle beneath the resting lash, which pushes the old one out to restart the entire cycle. When an eyelash is pulled out, the follicle essentially resets to the Anagen phase, provided it was not damaged in the process.
Expected Regrowth Timeline
The time for a pulled eyelash to fully return to its normal length is determined by the hair growth cycle. In most scenarios where the follicle remains healthy, it takes approximately six weeks to three months for the eyelash to fully regrow. This timeline represents the time needed for the follicle to re-enter and complete the active growth phase.
Visible signs of new growth may become apparent within a few weeks, as the tiny new hair shaft emerges. The average growth rate is measured at approximately 0.12 to 0.14 millimeters per day. The hair must spend the required time in the Anagen phase to reach its mature length.
If an eyelash was pulled out while it was already in the Catagen or Telogen (resting) phase, the regrowth process is essentially interrupted and forced to restart. This interruption means the follicle must fully complete the resting phase before it can begin the active growth phase, extending the overall time needed. For a complete regrowth, a timeframe of six to twelve weeks is a realistic expectation.
When Regrowth Is Delayed or Fails
While most eyelashes will regrow, there are specific situations where the expected timeline is significantly delayed or the growth fails altogether. The most common reason for failure is physical trauma to the hair follicle itself. Repeatedly pulling out eyelashes with excessive force can cause permanent damage to the follicle, leading to a condition known as Madarosis.
Underlying medical or behavioral conditions can also interfere with the natural regrowth process. Trichotillomania, a disorder characterized by the compulsive urge to pull out hair, causes lash loss due to repeated trauma and scarring of the follicles. Additionally, certain health issues, such as thyroid conditions, alopecia areata, or chronic inflammatory conditions like blepharitis, can cause significant lash loss or prevent regrowth.
If a pulled eyelash has not shown regrowth after about three months, or if the area is red, painful, or shows signs of infection, consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can determine if a health issue is the cause or if the follicle has sustained permanent damage. Addressing these factors is necessary to restore the normal growth cycle.