Poliosis is a condition marked by the absence or reduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color, in hair follicles. This can result in localized patches of white hair. While commonly associated with the scalp, poliosis can affect hair on any part of the body, including the eyebrows, beard, and eyelashes. It is a clinical sign, indicating a lack of pigment.
What Poliosis Eyelashes Look Like
When poliosis affects the eyelashes, it manifests as distinct patches or streaks of white hairs. This can range from just one or two white lashes to involvement of the entire eyelid margin.
The texture and growth patterns of the affected eyelashes generally remain unchanged; only their color is altered. It is important to differentiate this condition from complete hair loss or other conditions that might affect lash density or health.
Reasons Behind Poliosis Eyelashes
Poliosis can arise from various factors, broadly categorized as genetic or acquired. Genetic causes mean the condition is inherited, often as part of broader genetic syndromes. For example, Piebaldism, a rare genetic disorder, leads to congenital white patches of skin and hair due to mutations in the KIT gene, affecting melanoblast migration. Waardenburg syndrome, another neural crest disorder, is associated with hearing loss and pigmentary anomalies, frequently including poliosis of the eyelashes. Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, a genetic condition causing benign tumors in multiple organs, can also present with poliosis as an early indicator.
Acquired causes of poliosis can develop due to various inflammatory, autoimmune, or neoplastic conditions, as well as side effects from certain medications. Autoimmune disorders like vitiligo, where the immune system attacks pigment-producing cells, frequently present with poliosis. Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) syndrome, a systemic autoimmune disorder affecting melanin-containing tissues, often involves poliosis of the eyebrows and eyelashes, alongside uveitis and meningitis. Other acquired causes include alopecia areata, thyroid disorders, certain eye diseases like blepharitis, sympathetic ophthalmia, and even physical trauma or inflammation to the hair follicle.
Addressing Poliosis Eyelashes
There is no specific medical treatment available solely for poliosis itself, as it represents a symptom rather than a disease. If poliosis is linked to an underlying medical condition, treating that primary condition may sometimes lead to repigmentation of the affected hair. For instance, managing vitiligo or autoimmune disorders might promote melanin restoration.
For individuals seeking to address the appearance of white eyelashes, several cosmetic options are available. Mascara can effectively darken the lashes, providing a temporary color change. Eyelash tinting, performed by a professional, offers a more lasting color solution, typically lasting several weeks. Patch testing is recommended due to potential skin sensitivities around the eyes. False eyelashes can also be used to create the appearance of fuller, darker lashes.
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, if poliosis is new, spreading rapidly, or accompanied by other symptoms like vision changes, hearing loss, or white skin patches. A medical evaluation can help determine if an underlying systemic condition is present, and while poliosis itself poses no direct health risks, professional assessment ensures that any associated health concerns are identified and addressed.