Why Do My Eyelashes Fall Out More In Winter Seasonal Causes And Gentle Remedies

As the temperature drops and humidity levels plummet, many people notice a subtle but persistent change: their eyelashes seem thinner, more brittle, and prone to falling out. While some shedding is normal—just like hair on the scalp—excessive lash loss during winter can be alarming. Unlike sudden bald patches or scalp conditions, lash thinning often creeps in quietly, making it easy to overlook until noticeable gaps appear.

The truth is, winter weather doesn’t just dry out your skin and lips—it also takes a toll on delicate facial features like eyelashes. Cold winds, indoor heating, reduced moisture in the air, and even changes in daily routines can all contribute to increased lash fallout. The good news? Most of this is preventable with targeted care and gentle interventions. Understanding the underlying causes is the first step toward protecting your lashes through the colder months.

Why Winter Triggers Increased Eyelash Shedding

Human hair, including eyelashes, follows a natural growth cycle consisting of three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting/shedding). Normally, each lash stays in the anagen phase for about 30 to 45 days before entering the resting stage, where it eventually falls out to make way for a new one. On average, losing one to five lashes per day is considered normal.

However, winter introduces several environmental stressors that can disrupt this cycle:

• Dry Air: Cold outdoor air holds less moisture, and heated indoor environments further dehydrate the atmosphere. This lack of humidity dries out the oil glands around the eyes, weakening the follicles that anchor lashes.
• Increased Friction: Wearing scarves, wool hats, and even rubbing eyes due to dryness increases mechanical stress on lashes, leading to premature breakage.
• Reduced Sebum Production: Cooler temperatures slow down sebaceous gland activity. Since eyelid margins produce oils that condition lashes, lower sebum means less natural protection.
• Dehydration: People tend to drink less water in winter, which affects overall skin and follicle health. Dehydrated follicles are weaker and more prone to shedding.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Shorter daylight hours reduce sun exposure, lowering vitamin D synthesis—a nutrient linked to healthy hair follicle function.

These factors don't act alone; they compound. For instance, low humidity weakens the lash shaft, while increased eye-rubbing from irritation physically pulls them out. Over time, this accelerates the telogen phase, resulting in what feels like excessive shedding.

Tip: Use a humidifier at night to maintain indoor moisture levels between 40–60%, helping preserve both skin and lash hydration.

Gentle Remedies to Support Lash Health in Winter

While you can't control the weather, you can modify your habits and skincare routine to support stronger, healthier lashes. The key is gentleness—eyelash follicles are sensitive and easily damaged by harsh products or aggressive removal techniques.

Nourish with Natural Oils

Applying lightweight, non-comedogenic oils can reinforce the lash line without clogging glands. These oils mimic natural sebum and deliver essential fatty acids directly to the follicle base.

Popular options include:

• Castor oil: High in ricinoleic acid, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve circulation to follicles.
• Jojoba oil: Structurally similar to human sebum, making it ideal for mimicking natural conditioning.
• Coconut oil: Contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial benefits and helps prevent follicle infections.

Apply a single drop using a clean spoolie or cotton swab along the upper lash line every evening after cleansing. Avoid getting oil into the eyes, as it may cause temporary blurriness or irritation.

Switch to Sulfate-Free Eye Makeup Remover

Harsh surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate strip natural oils from lashes and eyelids. In winter, when moisture is already scarce, this can accelerate brittleness and fallout. Opt for micellar waters or oil-based removers labeled “ophthalmologist-tested” and “safe for contact lens wearers.”

“During winter months, I always recommend patients avoid foaming cleansers near the eyes. They’re too stripping for the delicate periocular area.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Maintain Lid Hygiene Without Over-Cleansing

Clean eyelids support healthy follicles, but over-washing removes protective oils. Use a mild, pH-balanced facial cleanser once daily. If you wear eye makeup regularly, consider a weekly lid scrub using diluted baby shampoo on a warm compress to remove buildup gently.

Do’s and Don’ts: Winter Lash Care Checklist

Checklist: Follow these actionable steps to minimize winter lash loss:

• ✔️ Do use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction during sleep.
• ✔️ Do apply a nourishing oil 3–4 times per week.
• ✔️ Do stay hydrated—aim for at least 2 liters of water daily.
• ✔️ Do take a winter-friendly multivitamin with biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3s.
• ❌ Don’t rub your eyes, especially with cold, dry hands.
• ❌ Don’t sleep in mascara or waterproof eyeliner.
• ❌ Don’t use expired eye cosmetics—replace mascara every 3 months.
• ❌ Don’t pull off false lashes aggressively; use an oil-based remover.

Comparative Guide: Common Winter Lash Threats vs. Solutions

Threat	Impact on Lashes	Gentle Solution
Low indoor humidity	Dries out follicles, increases breakage	Use a bedroom humidifier
Heated car interiors	Accelerates dehydration of lashes	Wear sunglasses indoors if sensitive
Frequent eye rubbing	Pulls out lashes prematurely	Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops
Waterproof mascara	Requires harsh removers, weakens shafts	Switch to tubing or water-resistant formulas
Cold wind exposure	Causes micro-trauma and drying	Wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors

A Real-Life Example: How Sarah Restored Her Lash Density

Sarah, a 34-year-old graphic designer from Minneapolis, began noticing clumps of lashes in her scarf and sink each morning during December. At first, she assumed it was seasonal allergies, but when her mascara started looking sparse despite full application, she grew concerned.

After consulting a dermatologist, she learned that her nightly habit of using a foaming face wash—even around the eyes—was stripping essential oils. Combined with sleeping under electric blankets and skipping moisturizer near her eyes, her lash follicles were starved of hydration.

She made simple changes: switched to a cream cleanser, applied jojoba oil every other night, installed a small humidifier in her bedroom, and replaced her cotton pillowcase with silk. Within six weeks, she noticed fewer lashes in her comb and improved thickness. By spring, her lashes had regained their former fullness.

Her experience underscores how small, consistent adjustments can yield visible results—without expensive treatments or serums.

Step-by-Step Evening Routine for Winter Lash Protection

Follow this gentle nighttime ritual to support lash retention throughout the winter:

1. Remove makeup carefully: Soak a cotton pad with micellar water and hold it over closed eyes for 10 seconds to dissolve mascara before wiping downward.
2. Cleanse face: Use a non-foaming, hydrating cleanser. Avoid scrubbing near the eyes.
3. Hydrate lids: Pat a light layer of fragrance-free eye cream along the orbital bone (not directly on lashes).
4. Apply nourishing oil: Dip a clean spoolie into castor or jojoba oil and sweep it along the upper lash line like liquid liner.
5. Set environment: Turn on a humidifier in your bedroom and set thermostat to 68–70°F (20–21°C) to minimize dry heat exposure.
6. Protect during sleep: Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.

This routine takes less than five minutes but creates optimal conditions for follicle recovery and regrowth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to lose more eyelashes in winter?

Yes, mild increases in lash shedding during winter are common due to dry air, reduced sebum production, and environmental stressors. However, if you notice bald spots, redness, or pain along the lash line, consult a doctor, as it could indicate blepharitis or alopecia areata.

Can vitamin supplements help prevent lash loss?

Yes, deficiencies in biotin, iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are linked to hair thinning—including lashes. A balanced supplement regimen can support follicle strength, especially in winter when dietary variety may decrease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting new supplements.

Are lash serums safe for everyday winter use?

Many over-the-counter serums containing peptides or prostaglandin analogs can be effective but carry risks such as irritation or darkening of the eyelid skin. For most people, natural oils and improved hygiene offer safer, equally beneficial alternatives during winter. If using a serum, choose one approved by an ophthalmologist and discontinue use if stinging or redness occurs.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Lashes Like You Would Your Skin

Just as you adjust your skincare routine for winter—adding heavier moisturizers, avoiding hot showers, and applying lip balm—your lashes deserve the same seasonal attention. They’re not just cosmetic features; they serve as protective barriers against dust, debris, and dry air.

The strategies outlined here aren’t quick fixes but sustainable practices rooted in biology and dermatological insight. By addressing root causes like dehydration, friction, and poor nutrition, you create an environment where lashes can thrive year-round.

You don’t need expensive treatments or invasive procedures to maintain healthy lashes. Often, the most effective solutions are the simplest: consistency, gentleness, and awareness of how seasonal shifts affect your body.

💬 Have you noticed changes in your lashes during winter? Share your experiences or tips in the comments—your insight might help someone else feel less alone in their journey to healthier lashes.