Why Do My Eyelashes Fall Out More In Winter And What To Do About It

It’s not your imagination—many people notice their eyelashes thinning or falling out more during the winter months. While some shedding is normal, a noticeable increase can be unsettling. Unlike hair on the scalp, eyelash loss is highly visible and often impacts self-confidence. The good news is that winter-related lash loss is usually temporary and preventable. Understanding the underlying causes—from dry air to lifestyle shifts—can help you take targeted steps to preserve and strengthen your lashes all season long.

The Science Behind Eyelash Growth and Shedding

Eyelashes, like all hair, follow a natural growth cycle composed of three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting and shedding). Each lash typically stays in the anagen phase for 30 to 45 days, meaning they don’t grow as long as scalp hair. On average, a person has between 150 and 200 upper lashes and about 75 to 100 lower ones, with 1–5 lashes shed daily—a process so subtle it usually goes unnoticed.

However, external stressors can disrupt this cycle, pushing more lashes into the telogen phase prematurely. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, is often triggered by environmental changes, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal fluctuations—all of which are more common in winter.

“Seasonal changes, especially reduced humidity and increased exposure to indoor heating, create a hostile environment for delicate lash follicles.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Why Winter Increases Eyelash Loss

Cold weather brings a cascade of physiological and environmental challenges that directly affect lash health. These factors often work in combination, amplifying their impact:

• Dry Air and Low Humidity: Indoor heating systems reduce relative humidity to as low as 10–20%, far below the ideal 40–60%. This desiccates the skin and lash follicles, weakening the base of each lash.
• Increased Eye Rubbing: Cold-induced dry eyes and allergies lead to frequent rubbing, which mechanically pulls out lashes and damages follicles.
• Harsh Skincare Products: Many turn to heavier creams and makeup removers in winter, some of which contain alcohol or fragrances that irritate the eye area.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Reduced sunlight exposure lowers vitamin D levels, which play a role in hair follicle cycling and immune regulation.
• Dehydration: People tend to drink less water in colder months, leading to drier tissues—including the delicate skin around the eyes.

Tip: Use a humidifier at night to maintain moisture in your bedroom and reduce dryness around the eyes.

Effective Strategies to Prevent Winter Lash Loss

Combatting seasonal lash shedding requires a multi-pronged approach focused on hydration, protection, and nourishment. The following evidence-based strategies address root causes and support healthy regrowth.

1. Hydrate the Eye Area Daily

The skin along the lash line is among the thinnest on the body and lacks oil glands, making it prone to dryness. Apply a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer or hydrating serum nightly. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or squalane.

2. Switch to a Gentler Makeup Routine

Heavy waterproof mascaras and aggressive removers strip natural oils and tug at lashes. In winter, opt for non-waterproof formulas and use micellar water or oil-based cleansers applied with soft cotton pads.

3. Nourish Follicles with Lash Serums

Clinically tested serums containing peptides, biotin, or prostaglandin analogs (like isopropyl cloprostenate) can strengthen lashes and extend their growth phase. Apply nightly to the base of the upper lashes using a sterile applicator.

4. Protect Against Environmental Stressors

Wear sunglasses even on cloudy days to shield lashes from wind and UV exposure. Avoid sitting directly in front of heaters, which accelerate moisture loss.

5. Support Internal Health

Nutrition plays a critical role in hair health. Prioritize foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseeds), biotin (eggs, nuts), and iron (spinach, lentils). Consider a supplement if blood work confirms deficiencies.

“Topical care alone isn’t enough. Healthy lashes start from within—ensure your diet supports keratin production and circulation to follicles.” — Dr. Naomi Chen, Trichology Specialist

Lash Care Do’s and Don’ts: A Quick Reference Table

Do’s	Don’ts
Use a humidifier in your bedroom at night	Use expired or drying mascara
Apply a nourishing lash serum every evening	Rub your eyes vigorously, especially when tired
Cleanse lashes gently with oil-based remover	Sleep with eye makeup on
Stay hydrated and eat protein-rich foods	Use eyelash curlers daily—they weaken lashes over time
Take breaks from false lashes and extensions	Pull out ingrown lashes or tweez excessively

Step-by-Step Winter Lash Care Routine

Consistency is key. Follow this nightly routine to minimize shedding and promote resilience:

1. Remove Makeup Gently: Soak a cotton pad with micellar water or coconut oil. Hold it over closed eyes for 10 seconds to dissolve mascara, then wipe downward—not upward—to avoid tugging.
2. Cleanse the Eyelid Line: Use a mild facial cleanser on a damp washcloth to remove residue without stripping oils.
3. Apply Lash Serum: Using the provided wand, draw a thin line along the upper lash base, similar to eyeliner. Let dry completely before touching pillow.
4. Moisturize Surrounding Skin: Dab a pea-sized amount of eye cream around the orbital area, avoiding direct contact with the eyes.
5. Run a Humidifier: Set to run for 6–8 hours overnight to maintain optimal room humidity.

Tip: Store your lash serum in a cool, dark place to preserve active ingredient potency.

Real-Life Example: How Sarah Restored Her Lashes After Winter Shedding

Sarah, a 34-year-old teacher from Minnesota, began noticing clumps of lashes in her mascara tube and pillowcase each morning in January. Alarmed, she consulted a dermatologist after two months of worsening thinning. Blood tests revealed low vitamin D and mild iron deficiency. Her routine included waterproof mascara, nightly makeup wipes with alcohol, and no targeted lash care.

Following her doctor’s advice, Sarah made several changes: she started a vitamin D supplement (2000 IU/day), switched to a peptide-based lash serum, installed a bedroom humidifier, and stopped using waterproof mascara. Within eight weeks, shedding decreased significantly. By spring, her lashes were fuller and healthier than before. “I didn’t realize how much my winter habits were harming my lashes,” she said. “Now I treat them like fragile plants—nourished, protected, and respected.”

When to Seek Medical Help

While seasonal shedding is common, excessive loss may signal an underlying condition. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Bald patches along the lash line
• Redness, itching, or crusting on eyelids (signs of blepharitis)
• Lash loss accompanied by scalp hair thinning
• Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction (fatigue, weight changes, cold intolerance)

Conditions such as alopecia areata, hypothyroidism, or chronic blepharitis require medical diagnosis and treatment. Never self-diagnose persistent or severe lash loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cold weather directly kill eyelash follicles?

No, cold air itself doesn’t destroy follicles, but prolonged exposure to dry, heated indoor environments weakens them by dehydrating the surrounding tissue. This makes lashes brittle and more likely to break or fall out prematurely.

Is it safe to use castor oil on eyelashes every night?

Most people tolerate castor oil well, but it can cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Always patch test behind the ear first. If you experience redness or swelling, discontinue use. Also, ensure the oil is pure and stored properly to avoid bacterial contamination.

How long does it take for eyelashes to grow back after winter shedding?

If the shedding was due to temporary stressors like dryness or mild nutritional gaps, lashes typically regrow within 6 to 8 weeks. Full restoration may take 3–4 months, depending on individual growth cycles and care practices.

Final Checklist: Your Winter Lash Protection Plan

Stay proactive with this actionable checklist to safeguard your lashes all season:

• ✅ Install a humidifier in your bedroom
• ✅ Switch to non-waterproof mascara
• ✅ Begin using a clinically backed lash serum
• ✅ Take a vitamin D supplement (after consulting your doctor)
• ✅ Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily
• ✅ Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially when dry or tired
• ✅ Remove eye makeup every night before bed
• ✅ Schedule a dermatology checkup if shedding persists beyond 2 months

Conclusion: Protect Your Lashes Like You Do Your Skin

Just as you adjust your skincare routine for winter, your lashes deserve the same attention. The combination of dry air, indoor heating, and lifestyle changes creates a perfect storm for increased shedding. But with mindful care—gentle cleansing, proper hydration, and nutritional support—you can maintain strong, full lashes throughout the coldest months. Think of your lashes as delicate indicators of overall health and environmental balance. By addressing both internal and external factors, you’re not just preventing loss; you’re investing in long-term resilience.

💬 Have you noticed more lash shedding in winter? Share your tips or experiences in the comments—your insight could help someone else regain their confidence.