Eyelashes protect the eyes from debris and contribute to facial appearance. When eyelashes begin to fall out, it can indicate an underlying issue. This phenomenon, known as madarosis or milphosis, can stem from various causes, including normal biological processes, medical conditions, or external factors.
Normal Eyelash Cycles and Common Habits
Eyelashes, much like the hair on the scalp, undergo a natural growth and shedding cycle. This cycle consists of three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). The anagen phase for eyelashes is relatively short, lasting about two weeks, while the telogen phase can extend for four to nine months before the lash naturally falls out. It is normal to lose between one and five eyelashes per day as part of this natural turnover. Mild, everyday eye rubbing can sometimes dislodge eyelashes already in the telogen phase, leading to a slight increase in shedding.
Medical Conditions Causing Loss
Beyond the natural cycle, several medical conditions can lead to increased eyelash loss.
Thyroid disorders, for example, are a frequent cause. Both an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) and an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can disrupt hair growth and follicle cycling, leading to thinning or shedding of hair, including eyelashes.
Autoimmune conditions, such as Alopecia Areata, can cause the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack healthy hair follicles, including those of the eyelashes. This can result in patchy or complete hair loss on the eyelids, often alongside hair loss on the scalp or eyebrows.
Inflammatory conditions of the eyelid, like Blepharitis, also contribute to lash loss. This condition involves chronic inflammation of the eyelid margin, often due to bacterial overgrowth, clogged oil glands, or eyelash mites, leading to redness, crusting, and potential damage to the eyelash follicles.
Skin conditions affecting the eyelids, such as Eczema and Psoriasis, can also result in eyelash loss. Eczema on the eyelids presents as itchy, inflamed, discolored patches, while psoriasis causes an overproduction of skin cells, leading to scaly, red growths around the eye area. Both conditions can cause irritation and inflammation that disrupt the normal lash growth cycle.
Infections, whether bacterial, fungal, or viral, can inflame the eyelash follicles or the eyelid itself, leading to weakened lashes and subsequent shedding.
Lifestyle and External Factors
Factors beyond medical conditions can also contribute to eyelash loss.
Excessive eye rubbing can physically dislodge lashes or damage the delicate follicles. While some males may not use traditional eye makeup, they might encounter irritants through other cosmetic products like cleansers, shampoos, or sunscreens that come into contact with the eye area.
Allergic reactions to environmental irritants, such as pollen or dust, can cause itching and inflammation around the eyes, leading to rubbing and subsequent lash loss.
Nutritional deficiencies can also play a role. A lack of specific nutrients like iron, biotin, or zinc can affect hair health and growth, potentially manifesting as thinning or shedding of eyelashes.
Chronic stress can impact the body’s overall health, including hair cycles, potentially pushing more hair follicles into the resting phase and leading to increased shedding. Certain medications can also have eyelash loss as a side effect, so it is important to consider any new prescriptions or changes in medication.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seeking professional medical advice is advisable when experiencing sudden or significant eyelash loss. If the loss is accompanied by additional symptoms like redness, itching, pain, or changes in vision, a medical evaluation is warranted.
If the eyelash loss is persistent and cannot be attributed to common, non-medical factors, consulting a doctor can help identify any underlying health conditions. A medical professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate management.