Why Do Eyelashes Fall Out?
Eyelashes falling out is a nuisance that almost everybody has had to deal with at one point or another. This is no different than hair from other parts of the body falling out occasionally. However, if you feel that the amount of eyelashes you are losing is excessive, there may be a medical reason for why this is happening. Here is some information on why eyelashes fall out.
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Theories/Speculation
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If your eyelashes fall out more often than you think is normal, you may have a condition called madarosis. Madarosis has some simple, everyday causes, including wiping your eyes with too much force, the way you take off your eye makeup and wearing heavy mascara (the mascara can actually weigh down the eyelashes, thus causing them to fall out).
Expert Insight
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Another potential reason for eyelashes falling out is an eyelid infection. Eyelid infections often lead to eyelashes falling out. Stye infections are caused by infections of the oil glands of the eyelids that happen after the glands have been clogged. Another eye infection that could result in eyelashes falling out is the infection of a mite called D. folliculorum, which inflames and swells the follicles of the eyelashes.
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Considerations
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If you notice that hair seems to be falling out not only from your eyelashes, but from other parts of your body, consider researching a condition called alopecia areata. Alopecia areata universalis is an autoimmune condition in which a person loses hair from all over the body. This condition is most common with children and teenagers, but can happen to people of all ages as well.
Warning
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Many people absentmindedly pull out their own eyelashes without even thinking about it. It is important to make sure that you are not engaging in this behavior, because this could be the source of the rest of your eyelashes falling out. Also, eyelashes take a lot longer to grow back than hair from other parts of the body, so it's never a good idea to pull out the lashes.
Potential
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If your eyelashes have fallen out, whether due to alopecia or a stye infection, you may be self-conscious about your lack of lashes for a while. A good way to remedy this issue is by purchasing false eyelashes, which are available at any drugstore or beauty supply shop. MAC Cosmetics make a very good natural looking false lash called #7, so try those out if you are worried about your eyelashes appearing fake (see Resources below).
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