The sudden sensation of an eyelash trapped within the eye is a common, intensely irritating experience caused by the delicate hair falling onto the conjunctiva or cornea. This foreign body causes discomfort, redness, and the reflex to rub, which must be avoided. Safely removing the eyelash requires a methodical approach to prevent damage to the eye’s sensitive surface.
Immediate Steps and Preparation
The immediate reaction to a foreign body is often to rub it, but this risks pushing the eyelash deeper or causing a corneal abrasion. The eyelash, though soft, acts like a tiny brush against the delicate cornea when pressure is applied, potentially leading to pain and infection. To minimize the risk of introducing bacteria, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water before touching the eye area.
Once your hands are clean, determine the eyelash’s location. Increased blinking may naturally flush the lash toward the inner corner. If blinking fails, use a clean mirror in a well-lit area to examine the white of the eye and the inner surfaces of the eyelids. Gently pull the lower lid down and the upper lid up to locate the hair.
Step-by-Step Eyelash Removal Methods
If the eyelash is visible on the white part of the eye, a direct, gentle action can be taken. Use a clean cotton swab moistened with sterile saline or clean water to lightly touch the lash and lift it away from the eye surface. Only touch the eyelash itself or the white sclera, avoiding the central cornea.
Flushing the eye is often the safest and most effective method. Tilt your head sideways over a sink and use an eyecup or a clean container to pour a gentle stream of saline solution or clean, lukewarm water over the open eye. Directing the flow from the inner corner outward helps to sweep the eyelash away from the center of vision.
If the eyelash feels lodged under the upper eyelid, try the “lift and blink” method. Gently grasp the upper eyelid’s skin and pull it down and over the lower lashes, then release it. The lower lashes act like a soft brush, which may catch the trapped eyelash and sweep it out. Repeat this motion a few times while blinking to encourage the lash to move.
Signs That Require Medical Attention
Although most eyelashes are removed successfully at home, certain symptoms signal that professional medical attention is necessary. If you experience persistent, severe pain or an ongoing feeling that the object is still present after removal attempts, the eye may have been scratched or the lash may remain embedded. Any noticeable change in vision, such as blurring, is a serious sign that requires immediate evaluation. Also look for increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) or the presence of a pus-like discharge, as these indicate a developing infection or inflammation. If the eye remains intensely red or irritated for more than a few hours after the eyelash has been removed, a healthcare professional should assess the eye.