Why Do Eyelashes Break Off?

Eyelashes act as a protective barrier, preventing foreign objects from getting into your eyes. Some people want long, thick, black eyelashes, which are thought to accentuate beauty. Unfortunately, the use of some mascaras, frequent eyelash curling and a technique known as eyelash perming can be damaging, causing eyelashes to break and fall out. The disease trichotilliomania may also cause eyelashes to break.

Significance

There are a plethora of beauty products available to enhance the eyelashes, including eyelash primer, extensions and conditioners. For the healthiest eyelashes, it is recommended to leave your eyelashes alone, or rinse your eyes gently with baby oil or makeup remover. Use false eyelashes sparingly and; rather than tugging and pulling them from your eyelashes, rub some baby oil across the false eyelash to loosen the glue.

Function

If you pull out your eyelashes, they will take about eight weeks to grow back. However, if you pluck your eyelashes over an extended period, they may stop growing back. The compulsive need to pluck one's eyelashes is a symptom of a disease called trichotilliomania, a stress-related disorder similar to obsessive compulsive disorder that is passed down genetically. It becomes emotionally satisfying for the person to pull out her eyelashes.

Effects

The effects of constant use of mascara, eyelash curlers and other products can be detrimental to your eyelashes. If you do not wash off your mascara before going to sleep, your eyelashes can become brittle and break off. If you continue to add layers of new mascara on top of the old, the caked-on lashes can become especially fragile and break off when you rub your eyes or use an eyelash curler. Always curl your eyelashes after they have been cleaned, not after mascara has been applied.

Benefits

There are several eyelash conditioners on the market designed to make eyelashes glossy and smooth. Because extended use has not been tested, it is not recommended to use them every day or over long periods of time. If you have been using false eyelashes frequently or have gotten extensions or an eyelash permed, use a conditioner for a few weeks until your eyelashes return to normal.

Warning

Do not use hair conditioner or shampoo on your eyelashes. Clean your eyes and eyelashes with baby oil, baby shampoo or an eye-makeup remover. If your eyelashes break off excessively, discontinue the use of any mascara or eye products until your eyelashes return to normal. If your eyelashes still break off, see your doctor. If you think you may have trichotilliomania, see your doctor immediately.

Resources

• Wikipedia.org: Eyelash
• AnswerBag.com: Eyelash Questions
• MakeupTalk.com: My Eyelashes are Breaking Off