6 reasons why your eyelashes break

Should you worry if your eyelashes fall without any rhyme or reason? Well yes, you should and we tell you why.

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Written By: Debjani Arora | Updated : June 29, 2015 9:53 AM IST

Most people talk about hair fall but never seem to raise a concern if they start to lose eyelashes steadily. This is because we are fed with this myth that shedding of eyelashes is an auspicious sign. In most parts of India, it is believed that if an eyelash falls of your eyelid on its own, it s time to make a wish. Going by this myth, many make a wish to a fallen eyelash and blow it in the air. Well, while it is okay to take such things with a pinch of salt, however recurrent shedding of eyelashes should raise an alarm, here is why:

  1. It could indicate an underlying infection

Infection in the eyes, especially involving the eyelid could lead to shedding of eyelashes at an alarming rate. This is particularly harmful for your eyes because the lashes save your orbs from dust, mites and pollutants that could irritate them and blur your vision, acting as allergens. However, if you acquire blepharitis a bacterial infection of the eyelids, it could cause loss of eyelashes along with swelling and itching. This kind of infection only causes loss of eyelashes and not the general kind of hair loss from the scalp. Here are few facts about your eyes you should know about.

Apart from this, you could also be suffering from a bug or mite attack on your eyelashes that could cause the follicles to inflame and swell. These bugs or mites called demo falcon mite resides in the pores of the skin and hair follicle. Excess of them could cause the eyelashes to fall. Although, none of these conditions affect vision directly, however, it isn t good for your eye health. So get in touch with your doctor to get treated for the same, in case you are suffering from it. Here are ways to keep your eyes healthy.

  1. It signifies a weaker immune system

Sometimes a weak immune system could be a cause of hair fall from different parts of the body including your eyes. This condition is called alopecia where the immune system of the body attacks the hair follicles and leads to hair fall. Intake of prescribed antibiotics can help to address this condition and prevent hair loss. Here are six causes of hair loss that you didn t know about.

  1. It indicates it s time to change your eye make-up

Eye make-up doesn t interfere with the well-being of your eyes, but can definitely ruin your eyelashes to some extent. Using harsh cosmetics like thick mascara can strain the eyelashes and make them weak. Moreover, if you rub or press your eyes too hard while removing eye make-up it can also cause your eyelashes to break. Here is a guide for the right way to remove eye make-up.

  1. It says that you are overstressed

Stress can take a toll on your overall health and might not spare your eyes as well. Lack of sleep, improper diet and general fatigue could all lead to breaking of eyelashes and risk the health of your eyes by exposing them to external allergens. Here are some expert tips to reduce stress and be healthy.

  1. It could indicate a health crisis

Usually a malfunctioning thyroid gland could lead to loss of eyelashes which can be grown back again if given proper care. An underactive or overactive thyroid can disrupt the hormonal balance of the body which could lead to hair loss and make you lose your eyelashes stealing the beauty of your eyes. However, corrective diet and proper medications can help restore the problem.

  1. It says you are aging

There is no running away from this fact. As you age every part of your body is subjected to slow and steady decay and this is something which is irreversible. However, if you are losing eyelashes in an alarming rate it is still better to check with your doctor or a dermatologist to know the exact reason.

Note: Sometimes breaking of eyelashes could be an outcome or side effect of certain medications or treatments like chemotherapy during cancer, antidepressants, etc.

Image source: Getty Images


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