Part 1: How Our Lashes Grow and What Changes with Age
Eyelashes may be small, but they are surprisingly complex. 💞
They protect our eyes from dust and debris, enhance our facial expressions, and play a big role in how youthful and vibrant we look.
Like the hair on our head, lashes follow a natural rhythm of growth and shedding. But over time, that rhythm slows down — which is why so many women notice their lashes thinning, shortening, or disappearing altogether as they age. 💞
Let’s take a closer look……..💞
The Lash Growth Cycle
Each lash goes through three key phases:
Growth (Anagen) – The lash actively grows for 1–2 months.
Rest (Catagen) – Growth stops, and the follicle prepares to shed the lash.
Shedding (Telogen) – The lash naturally falls out, and the cycle begins again.
At any given time, about 90% of your lashes are growing while 10% are resting or shedding! 💞
This is why you don’t suddenly lose all your lashes at once, the cycle is staggered to keep your lash line looking consistent.
Fascinating Lash Facts!
The average person has 90–150 lashes on the upper eyelid and 70–80 on the lower lid.
Upper lashes tend to grow longer and fuller than lower lashes because their follicles are larger and more active.
Lashes are the only hair on the body that doesn’t gray, but they do get thinner and weaker over time.
A single lash lives for about 3–6 months before shedding and starting fresh.
Why Lashes Change with Age
As we grow older, several changes affect the lash cycle:
Follicle Shrinkage: Just like scalp hair, lash follicles can miniaturize, producing thinner, finer lashes.
Slowed Growth: The anagen (growth) phase shortens, so lashes don’t have as much time to grow to their full length.
Reduced Follicle Activity: Some follicles stop producing lashes altogether, leading to sparse lash lines.
These changes are a natural part of aging, but they can really start to feel more noticeable around menopause and beyond. 💞
Internal Factors That Affect Lash Growth
Hormonal Changes – Declines in estrogen and progesterone affect hair follicles, leading to slower growth and thinner lashes.
Nutrient Deficiency – Low levels of iron, biotin, or omega-3 fatty acids can weaken lash growth.
Medical Conditions & Medications – Thyroid issues, autoimmune conditions, and certain medications can contribute to lash loss.
External Factors That Contribute
Rubbing or Pulling – Vigorous makeup removal or habitual rubbing can damage follicles. So always take care! 💞
Harsh Products – Waterproof mascaras, strong adhesives, or lash extensions may weaken natural lashes. Be very careful here!
UV Exposure & Pollution – Environmental stressors can dry out lashes and damage the delicate follicle area.
The Good News!
While lashes do change with age, be rest assured that they’re not doomed. With gentle care, proper nutrition, and supportive products, your lashes can continue to look full, defined, and healthy — no matter your age. 💞
👉 In Part 2 tomorrow, we’ll share everyday lash care practices and show how products like LashCare+Serum can help support lash strength, density, and vitality.
Stay tuned for tomorrow where we will unveil Part 2.
