Do you ever wonder how long it takes for an eyelash to grow? Are you frustrated that your lashes appear shorter and more sparse than before?
Many people feel this way and want to learn more about the lifecycle of their eyelashes, so keep on reading to find out how long does it take an eyelash to grow?
Read on to find out how long it takes for an eyelash to reach its full length!
What Is an Average Eyelash Growth Cycle?
Your eyelashes go through a growth cycle that consists of three main phases: the anagen phase, the catagen phase, and the telogen phase.
Understanding these phases can help you better comprehend how your eyelashes grow and what you can expect in terms of their length and fullness.
Anagen Phase (Growth Phase): In this phase, your eyelashes actively grow and can last between 4 and 10 weeks.
During this time, a typical eyelash grows between 0.12 and 0.14 millimeters per day. This is when your lashes have the chance to reach their full potential.
Catagen Phase (Degradation Phase): After your eyelashes have grown to their full length, they enter the catagen phase, which lasts about 2 to 3 weeks.
During this time, your eyelashes stop growing as the hair follicle shrinks and detaches from its fuel supply. This process is necessary for the lashes to eventually fall out and make way for new growth.
Telogen Phase (Resting Phase): The final stage of the eyelash growth cycle is the telogen phase, which can last up to 3 months.
In this phase, the eyelash has stopped growing and is preparing to shed. Once it falls out, the cycle starts over with a new anagen phase and the growth of a fresh eyelash.
How Long Does It Take An Eyelash To Grow?
The life span of an eyelash can vary from 4 months to as long as 11 months. This life span consists of three phases: the growth phase, the degradation phase, and the telogen phase.
During the growth phase, which takes about 15 days, your eyelashes grow to their full length.
Once fully grown, your eyelashes protect your eyes for 4 to 9 months before they naturally fall out. It is normal to lose an eyelash or two from time to time.
After your eyelash falls out, the entire growth cycle starts over again, lasting anywhere between 4 and 11 months.
On average, it can take around 6 to 8 weeks for a new lash to fully grow. To support healthy eyelash growth, it’s essential to practice proper care, use lash-enhancing serums, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, nuts, and seeds, or taking supplements can help hydrate your lashes and fight inflammation, which encourages hair growth.
How to Make Your Eyelashes Grow Back More Quickly
If you wish to speed up the regrowth of your eyelashes, follow these tips to nourish and strengthen your lashes…
1. Use growth serums: There are various growth serums available in the market that can help stimulate eyelash growth. Select one with nourishing ingredients like peptides and hyaluronic acid.
2. Maintain a balanced diet: Proper nutrition plays an essential role in promoting healthy hair growth, including your eyelashes. Include foods rich in protein, biotin, and vitamins into your diet. Consuming foods like fish, nuts, and seeds can provide essential nutrients for lash growth.
3. Castor oil: Applying castor oil to your lashes can help moisturize and nourish them. Gently apply a small amount using a clean eyeliner brush or cotton swab.
4. Keep your lashes moisturized: Eyelashes need hydration to grow back more quickly. Consider using a gentle, natural oil like coconut or almond oil to moisturize your lashes regularly.
5. Supplement your diet with vitamins: Taking vitamin supplements, especially ones containing biotin and collagen, can boost the health of your eyelashes. These supplements can help improve hair, skin, and nails in general.
Common Causes of Eyelashes Falling Out And Eyelash Loss?
It’s natural for you to lose a few eyelashes here and there, but it can be concerning when it seems like they’re falling out more than usual. Let’s discuss some common causes of eyelash loss.
Blepharitis is a condition where clogged oil glands near the base of your eyelashes cause chronic inflammation, leading to eyelash loss. Redness, swelling, and itchiness are common symptoms.
Trichotillomania is a psychological disorder where a person compulsively pulls out their own hair, including eyelashes. If you find it hard to resist pulling your lashes, it may be helpful to seek help from a mental health professional.
Alopecia is an autoimmune disorder that sometimes causes hair loss, affecting not only the scalp but also your eyelashes. Hair loss can be temporary or permanent, and treatment is available if it impacts your quality of life.
Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment known to cause hair loss, including eyelashes. Fortunately, your hair usually grows back after treatment has ended.
Thyroid conditions like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can lead to hair loss, including your eyelashes. Treating the underlying thyroid condition may help control the hair loss.
Madarosis is a medical term for the loss of eyebrows or eyelashes, which can be caused by several factors such as infections (e.g., styes), eyelid inflammation, or trauma. Proper diagnosis and treatment by a doctor can help address the cause.
Genetic factors can contribute to eyelash loss. If eyelash loss runs in your family, it could be due to a hereditary predisposition.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause hair loss, including eyelashes. If you suspect that you might have lupus, it’s essential to talk to your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Tips To Prevent Eyelash Hair Loss
Losing a few eyelashes is normal, but if you’re experiencing excessive eyelash loss, but you need to figure out the cause and adopt some preventive measures.
Here are some tips to help you prevent eyelash hair loss and maintain those beautiful lashes:
1. Be gentle with your eyelashes: When applying or removing makeup, be especially careful around your eyes. Use a soft-bristle brush when applying mascara, and avoid tugging or rubbing your eyes when removing makeup. Invest in a gentle eye makeup remover to avoid causing damage to your delicate eyelashes.
2. Limit the use of eyelash curlers: Regular use of eyelash curlers can cause your eyelashes to become weak and more prone to falling out. Try to cut back on using curlers, or opt for a heated eyelash curler which is gentler on your lashes.
3. Practice good hygiene: Keeping your eyelids clean and free from debris can help avoid eyelash loss. Wash your face daily, being mindful to remove all makeup before going to bed. This gives your eyelashes a chance to breathe and prevents buildup of potentially harmful bacteria.
4. Avoid wearing heavy mascara: Wearing heavy, clumpy mascara can weigh down your eyelashes and cause them to fall out prematurely. Opt for a lighter mascara that is easy to remove, or consider using a lengthening or volumizing formula.
5. Don’t brush your eyelashes too vigorously: Brushing your eyelashes can help distribute natural oils and promote growth, but over-brushing can lead to increased hair loss. Use a clean, soft-bristled brush and gently stroke your eyelashes in an upward motion.
6. Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients can contribute to healthy eyelashes. Enjoy leafy greens, fruits, and lean proteins in your meals to provide essential nutrients for eyelash growth.
What Is the Best Eyelash Serum For Eyelashes To Grow Back?
No need to worry about your eyelashes taking too long to grow back. There are several effective eyelash growth serums on the market that can help you achieve fuller, longer lashes.
- RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner: This serum is popular for its potent blend of peptides and botanical ingredients, which work together to strengthen and rejuvenate your lashes. Apply it daily, and you could see dramatic results within a few weeks.
- Latisse: This FDA-approved lash growth serum, also known as bimatoprost, is a proven solution for promoting eyelash growth. Available only by prescription, Latisse needs to be applied consistently as directed by a doctor. It has some potential side effects, so consult with your physician before starting this treatment.
- GrandeLASH-MD: With its combination of vitamins, peptides, and amino acids, GrandeLASH-MD promotes thicker, longer lashes within 4 to 6 weeks. The serum is easy to apply and doesn’t require a prescription.
Importance Of Natural Lash Hygiene And Care For Healthy Eyelashes Naturally
Maintaining good hygiene and taking care of your natural lashes is essential for ensuring their health and growth.
Make sure to keep your eye area clean. Gently remove makeup every night before you go to bed, avoiding any harsh rubbing or tugging.
This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and reduces the risk of infection, as well as lessens the chances of your lashes becoming weak or damaged.
You need a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, and other nutrient-dense foods to provide essential vitamins and minerals for your body, including your lashes.
These nutrients nourish and support the growth of strong, healthy lashes.
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can further enhance the health of your eyelashes.
Moisturize your eye area and lashes to keep them nourished and hydrated. Use a gentle, fragrance-free eye cream or oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, to moisturize your lashes.
Apply the product carefully with a clean fingertip or a cotton swab, avoiding direct contact with your eyes.
Avoid using eyelash curlers or waterproof mascaras too frequently, as these can cause tension and stress on your natural lashes, leading to breakage or thinning.
Instead, opt for gentle mascara formulas that can be easily removed with a makeup remover or warm water.
Should You Get Eyelash Extensions if Your Eyelash Hairs Aren’t Growing?
Eyelash extensions can give you the appearance of fuller, longer lashes even when you’re experiencing slow growth.
They can last for the average growth cycle of natural lashes, around six weeks to two months. However, maintenance is required during this period to keep your extensions looking their best.
But be cautious about the potential risks. One concern is the possible irritation or allergic reaction caused by the glue used in the application process.
Make sure to ask the salon about their glue materials to avoid any complications.
Some people may experience scratches or trauma to the eyelid or cornea from the application process or subsequent use of a lash comb. To avoid injury, ensure that your technician is well-trained and has good reviews.
That said, eyelash extensions could provide a temporary solution while you wait for your natural lashes to grow back.
Generally, eyelashes grow at a rate of 0.12 to 0.14 millimeters per day and may take between four and ten weeks for the growth cycle to complete.
So, if you’re patient, your eyelashes will eventually return to their natural length without resorting to extensions.
Summary
So, how long does it take for an eyelash to grow? The average growth cycle of an eyelash is between 4 and 11 months.
During the first stage of the growth cycle (anagen phase) a typical lash can grow up to 0.12-0.14 millimeters per day, reaching its full length in 15 days.
To support healthy eyelash growth, invest in a nourishing serum, practice proper hygiene and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients.
Taking preventative measures to avoid damage or irritation around your eyes can help you preserve your natural lashes longer.