Why Are My Eyelashes Falling Out More Than Usual Possible Causes

It’s normal to lose a few eyelashes each day. Like the hair on your scalp, eyelashes follow a natural growth cycle that includes shedding. However, if you’ve noticed clumps of lashes falling out, visible thinning, or slower regrowth, it may signal an underlying issue. Eyelash loss beyond the typical 1–5 per day can be distressing, but understanding the root cause is the first step toward recovery. From lifestyle habits to medical conditions, several factors contribute to increased lash shedding. This article explores the most common reasons behind excessive eyelash loss and provides actionable insights for prevention and restoration.

Understanding the Eyelash Growth Cycle

Eyelashes grow in three distinct phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting and shedding). The anagen phase for eyelashes lasts only 30 to 45 days—much shorter than scalp hair—making their overall lifespan brief. At any given time, about 90% of your lashes are in the resting phase, with 10% actively growing. This explains why losing a few lashes daily is normal.

However, disruptions to this cycle—whether due to physical trauma, hormonal shifts, or illness—can accelerate shedding or inhibit regrowth. When more than five lashes fall out per day consistently, or when you notice bald patches along the lash line, it’s time to investigate potential causes.

Tip: Use a magnifying mirror weekly to monitor lash density and detect early signs of thinning.

Common Causes of Excessive Eyelash Loss

Increased eyelash shedding can stem from multiple sources. Some are temporary and reversible; others require medical attention. Below are the most frequent contributors:

1. Physical Trauma and Friction

Repeated rubbing, pulling, or aggressive makeup removal can damage the delicate follicles along the lash line. Common culprits include:

• Chronic eye rubbing due to allergies or irritation
• Wearing heavy false lashes or lash extensions frequently
• Using waterproof mascara that requires harsh tugging to remove
• Sleeping face-down on pillows, causing constant friction

Over time, this mechanical stress can lead to traction alopecia—a condition where hair follicles are damaged from prolonged tension.

2. Blepharitis and Eyelid Infections

Blepharitis is an inflammatory condition caused by bacterial overgrowth, oil gland dysfunction, or mites (Demodex). It leads to red, swollen eyelids, crusting at the base of lashes, and eventual lash loss. If left untreated, chronic inflammation can scar the follicles, making regrowth difficult.

“Blepharitis is one of the most underdiagnosed causes of eyelash thinning. Early treatment with lid hygiene can prevent permanent damage.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Ophthalmologist

3. Hormonal Imbalances and Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland plays a critical role in regulating hair growth cycles. Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can disrupt follicular function, leading to diffuse hair loss—including eyebrows and eyelashes.

Symptoms often include fatigue, weight changes, dry skin, and brittle nails alongside lash thinning. Blood tests measuring TSH, T3, and T4 levels are essential for diagnosis.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

Poor nutrition directly impacts hair health. Key nutrients for strong lashes include:

• Protein: Lashes are made of keratin, a type of protein.
• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Supports keratin production.
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant that protects follicles.
• Iron: Deficiency, especially in women, is linked to telogen effluvium (premature shedding).

Crash diets, eating disorders, or restrictive vegan diets without proper supplementation can trigger deficiencies that manifest as lash loss.

5. Autoimmune Conditions: Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. It often presents as sudden, patchy hair loss on the scalp, brows, or lashes. In severe cases, it can lead to madarosis—the complete loss of eyelashes and eyebrows.

While the exact cause is unknown, genetic predisposition and environmental triggers like stress may play a role.

Lifestyle and Cosmetic Factors

Daily habits and beauty routines significantly influence lash health. Consider these often-overlooked contributors:

Makeup Habits and Product Sensitivity

Using expired mascara, sharing cosmetics, or sleeping with makeup on introduces bacteria and irritants to the eye area. Waterproof formulas often contain stronger solvents that strip natural oils and weaken lashes over time.

Stress and Sleep Deprivation

Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which can push hair follicles into the shedding phase prematurely. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, typically appears 2–3 months after a stressful event and affects body hair—including lashes.

Medications and Medical Treatments

Certain drugs list eyelash loss as a side effect. These include:

• Chemotherapy agents (cause widespread hair loss)
• Beta-blockers (used for high blood pressure)
• Retinoids (topical or oral acne treatments)
• Anticoagulants (blood thinners)

If you started a new medication around the time of increased shedding, consult your doctor before making changes.

Cause	Key Signs	Action Step
Trauma from extensions	Thinning at outer corners, broken lashes	Take a break from extensions; switch to lightweight styles
Blepharitis	Crusty lids, burning sensation, redness	Warm compresses + lid scrub routine
Thyroid imbalance	Fatigue, weight gain/loss, dry skin	Blood test for thyroid function
Nutritional deficiency	Fragile lashes, hair thinning elsewhere	Check iron, biotin, protein intake
Alopecia areata	Sudden patchy loss, smooth skin	See dermatologist for diagnosis

When to See a Doctor

Occasional lash loss doesn’t warrant concern. However, seek medical evaluation if you experience:

• Noticeable thinning or bald spots along the lash line
• Redness, swelling, or discharge from the eyes
• Lash loss accompanied by eyebrow thinning
• Symptoms of hormonal imbalance (e.g., unexplained weight changes)

A dermatologist or ophthalmologist can perform a slit-lamp exam, assess follicle health, and recommend tests to rule out systemic conditions. Early intervention improves the chances of full regrowth.

Real Example: Maria’s Experience with Blepharitis

Maria, a 34-year-old teacher, began noticing her lashes falling out in clumps after switching to a new brand of waterproof mascara. She also experienced morning crusting and a gritty feeling in her eyes. After weeks of worsening symptoms, she visited an eye specialist who diagnosed her with anterior blepharitis caused by bacterial buildup and Demodex mites.

Her treatment plan included daily warm compresses, lid scrubs with diluted baby shampoo, and a course of antibiotic ointment. Within six weeks, her inflammation subsided, and new lashes began to grow back. Maria now avoids heavy eye makeup and maintains strict lid hygiene to prevent recurrence.

How to Prevent and Restore Eyelash Health

Whether you’re addressing current loss or aiming to protect your lashes, proactive care makes a difference. Follow this step-by-step guide to support healthy regrowth:

1. Remove makeup gently: Use a fragrance-free, oil-based cleanser and avoid rubbing. Soak a cotton pad and hold it over closed eyes for 10 seconds to dissolve mascara.
2. Practice lid hygiene: Cleanse the lash line daily with a mild foaming cleanser or pre-moistened lid wipe, especially if prone to blepharitis.
3. Limit use of extensions and falsies: Give your natural lashes a break for at least 4–6 weeks between applications.
4. Boost nutrition: Eat protein-rich foods (eggs, fish, legumes), leafy greens, nuts, and consider a biotin or multivitamin supplement after consulting your doctor.
5. Use lash serums wisely: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, and prostaglandin analogs (like bimatoprost) can enhance growth—but only under medical guidance. Over-the-counter serums should be free of parabens and alcohol.
6. Protect during sleep: Use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and avoid sleeping face-down.
7. Manage stress: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to lower cortisol levels.

Tip: Never share eye makeup or use someone else’s mascara—this increases the risk of infection and mite transmission.

At-Home Care Checklist

• ✅ Remove eye makeup every night
• ✅ Replace mascara every 3 months
• ✅ Wash hands before touching eyes
• ✅ Apply warm compresses 2–3 times a week if prone to blepharitis
• ✅ Eat a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins
• ✅ Avoid rubbing eyes, even when tired or itchy
• ✅ Schedule annual eye exams

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to lose 10 eyelashes a day?

Losing up to 5 eyelashes per day is considered normal. While occasional spikes may occur due to makeup removal or rubbing, consistently losing 10 or more could indicate an underlying issue such as blepharitis, nutritional deficiency, or hormonal imbalance. Monitor the pattern and consult a professional if thinning becomes visible.

Can eyelashes grow back after falling out?

Yes, in most cases, eyelashes will grow back once the cause of shedding is addressed. Regrowth typically takes 6–8 weeks, depending on the health of the follicle. However, repeated trauma or scarring from chronic inflammation may impair regrowth permanently.

Does crying make eyelashes fall out?

Crying itself does not cause lash loss. However, vigorous wiping or rubbing the eyes while crying can physically pull out lashes or irritate the follicles. Use soft tissues and blotting motions instead of rubbing to minimize damage.

Conclusion: Take Action to Protect Your Lashes

Eyelash loss is more than a cosmetic concern—it can reflect deeper health issues ranging from nutrient gaps to autoimmune conditions. By paying attention to your habits, recognizing warning signs, and taking preventive steps, you can maintain strong, healthy lashes. Don’t ignore persistent shedding. Simple changes in skincare, diet, and eye hygiene can make a significant difference. If home care isn’t enough, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice. Your lashes are a window into your overall well-being, and protecting them starts with informed, consistent care.

💬 Have you experienced unusual eyelash loss? Share your story or tips in the comments below—your insight could help someone find answers.