How To Grow Eyelashes Naturally

Growing long and healthy eyelashes naturally is a common beauty goal. Eyelashes not only enhance the beauty of our eyes but also protect them from dust and debris. This guide provides a detailed roadmap on how to achieve longer, thicker, and healthier eyelashes without resorting to artificial extensions or chemical treatments.

Understanding Eyelashes

Structure and Function

Eyelashes are more than just a cosmetic feature; they play a crucial role in protecting our eyes. Here’s a detailed look at their structure and function:

Structure

1. Composition: Eyelashes are made up of 10% water and 90% proteins, primarily keratin. Keratin is the same protein that makes up our hair, skin, and nails, providing strength and flexibility.
2. Layers: Each eyelash consists of three layers:
   • Medulla: The innermost layer, which is soft and spongy.
   • Cortex: The middle layer, which contains melanin (the pigment that gives hair its color) and provides strength and elasticity.
   • Cuticle: The outer layer, which consists of overlapping cells that protect the inner layers from damage and dehydration.
3. Follicles: Eyelashes grow from follicles located in the eyelids. Each follicle is connected to a sebaceous gland that produces an oily substance to lubricate the lash and the eye.

Function

1. Protection: Eyelashes act as a barrier against dust, debris, and other foreign particles, preventing them from entering the eyes. They also reduce the risk of infections by keeping these particles away.
2. Sensitivity: The follicles of the eyelashes are highly sensitive to touch. This sensitivity helps to trigger a reflex action that closes the eyelids when a foreign object comes close to the eyes, providing an additional layer of protection.
3. Shade and Moisture Regulation: Eyelashes help to reduce the amount of light that enters the eyes, protecting them from bright light and UV rays. They also play a role in maintaining moisture levels by minimizing the evaporation of tears from the surface of the eyes.

Growth Cycle

Eyelashes, like all hair, go through a natural growth cycle that consists of three phases:

1. Anagen Phase (Active Growth Phase):
   • Duration: This phase lasts between 30 to 45 days.
   • Characteristics: During this period, the hair follicle is actively producing new cells, and the eyelash is growing. Approximately 35-40% of the upper eyelashes and about 15% of the lower eyelashes are in the anagen phase at any given time.
2. Catagen Phase (Transition Phase):
   • Duration: This phase lasts about 2 to 3 weeks.
   • Characteristics: Growth stops, and the hair follicle shrinks. The eyelash is cut off from the blood supply, and the follicle moves closer to the surface of the skin. This phase prepares the lash for shedding.
3. Telogen Phase (Resting Phase):
   • Duration: This phase lasts around 100 days.
   • Characteristics: The eyelash remains in the follicle but is no longer actively growing. At the end of this phase, the eyelash will eventually fall out, and a new one will begin to grow in its place.

Factors Influencing Eyelash Growth

Several factors can affect the growth and health of eyelashes:

1. Genetics: Your genetic makeup largely determines the length, thickness, and growth rate of your eyelashes. Some people are naturally predisposed to have longer and thicker eyelashes than others.
2. Age: As we age, the growth rate of our eyelashes may slow down, and they may become thinner.
3. Health and Nutrition: A well-balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals supports healthy eyelash growth. Nutrients such as biotin, vitamins E and C, and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important.
4. Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can affect eyelash growth.
5. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders or alopecia, can impact eyelash growth. Additionally, medications like chemotherapy drugs can cause eyelashes to fall out.
6. Environmental Factors: Exposure to harsh weather conditions, pollution, and UV radiation can damage eyelashes and affect their growth.
7. Lifestyle Habits: Practices such as rubbing your eyes, using harsh makeup removers, not removing makeup before bed, and overusing eyelash curlers can lead to eyelash breakage and loss.

Factors Affecting Eyelash Growth

Eyelash growth can be influenced by a variety of factors, ranging from genetic predisposition to lifestyle choices. Understanding these factors can help you optimize your efforts to grow healthier, longer eyelashes naturally.

Genetic Factors

Genetics play a significant role in determining the characteristics of your eyelashes, including their length, thickness, and growth rate. If your family members have long, thick eyelashes, it’s likely you will too. Conversely, if thin or sparse eyelashes are common in your family, you might face similar challenges.

Age

As we age, the growth rate of our eyelashes can slow down. Eyelashes may become thinner and more brittle due to the natural aging process. This is partly because the production of keratin, the protein that makes up hair, decreases with age.

Health and Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals is crucial for maintaining healthy eyelashes. Key nutrients that support eyelash growth include:

1. Biotin: Also known as vitamin B7, biotin helps produce keratin, which is vital for healthy hair, skin, and nails. Foods rich in biotin include eggs, almonds, and sweet potatoes.
2. Vitamins E and C: These vitamins are powerful antioxidants that protect hair follicles from damage and support collagen production, which strengthens hair. Sources include citrus fruits, bell peppers, spinach, and almonds.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats nourish hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth. They are found in fish, flax seeds, and walnuts.

Hormonal Changes

Hormones can significantly impact eyelash growth. For instance, during pregnancy, many women experience thicker and faster-growing eyelashes due to increased levels of certain hormones. Conversely, hormonal changes during menopause can lead to thinning eyelashes.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can affect eyelash growth:

1. Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can lead to hair loss, including eyelashes.
2. Alopecia Areata: This autoimmune condition causes hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body, including the eyelashes.
3. Blepharitis: This inflammation of the eyelids can damage eyelash follicles, leading to thinning or loss of eyelashes.

Medications

Some medications can impact eyelash growth. For example, chemotherapy drugs often cause hair loss, including eyelashes. Other medications that might affect hair growth include certain antidepressants, anticoagulants, and blood pressure medications.

Environmental Factors

Exposure to environmental stressors can also affect the health and growth of your eyelashes:

1. Pollution: Airborne pollutants can damage hair follicles and lead to weaker, brittle eyelashes.
2. UV Radiation: Excessive exposure to UV rays can weaken the hair structure and lead to hair loss, including eyelashes.
3. Harsh Weather Conditions: Extreme cold or dry conditions can dehydrate hair and make it more prone to breakage.

Lifestyle Habits

Your daily habits can have a significant impact on the health of your eyelashes:

1. Eye Rubbing: Frequently rubbing your eyes can cause eyelashes to fall out prematurely and damage the hair follicles.
2. Makeup Use: Using mascara and other eye makeup products can weaken eyelashes, especially if not removed properly at the end of the day. Waterproof mascara, in particular, can be difficult to remove and may lead to lash breakage.
3. Makeup Removal: Harsh makeup removers can strip natural oils from the eyelashes, making them dry and brittle. It’s important to use gentle, oil-based removers.
4. Sleeping with Makeup: Failing to remove eye makeup before bed can cause eyelash damage and breakage due to friction against the pillow.
5. Eyelash Curlers: Overusing or improperly using eyelash curlers can weaken and break eyelashes. Always use a clean curler and avoid excessive pressure.

Stress

High-stress levels can lead to hair loss, including eyelashes. Stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, pushing more hairs into the shedding phase. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and adequate sleep can help maintain healthy eyelashes.

Natural Remedies for Eyelash Growth

Achieving longer, thicker, and healthier eyelashes naturally involves a combination of proper care, nutrition, and the use of natural remedies. Here are some effective natural treatments that can promote eyelash growth:

Castor Oil

Benefits

Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a compound known for its hair growth properties. It also contains omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, which nourish and strengthen hair.

How to Use

• Application: Use a clean mascara brush or a cotton swab to apply a small amount of castor oil to your eyelashes before bed.
• Frequency: Apply nightly for the best results.
• Tips: Ensure the oil does not get into your eyes, as it can cause irritation.

Coconut Oil

Benefits

Coconut oil is packed with fatty acids and antioxidants that help to moisturize and protect the eyelashes. It also has antimicrobial properties that prevent infections in the eyelid area.

How to Use

• Application: Dip a clean cotton swab into coconut oil and apply it along the lash line.
• Frequency: Use every night before sleeping.
• Tips: Opt for organic, cold-pressed coconut oil for maximum benefits.

Olive Oil

Benefits

Olive oil contains oleic acid and vitamin E, both of which promote hair health and growth. It helps to keep the eyelashes moisturized and prevents breakage.

How to Use

• Application: Use a clean mascara brush to apply a small amount of olive oil to your eyelashes.
• Frequency: Apply every night for the best results.
• Tips: Make sure to use extra virgin olive oil for its purity and effectiveness.

Aloe Vera

Benefits

Aloe vera gel is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which nourish and strengthen the hair follicles. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the eyelids and promote healthy lash growth.

How to Use

• Application: Extract fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf and apply it to your eyelashes using a clean brush or cotton swab.
• Frequency: Apply nightly before going to bed.
• Tips: Store the aloe vera gel in the refrigerator for a cooling effect.

Green Tea

Benefits

Green tea is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which stimulate hair growth and strengthen hair follicles. The caffeine in green tea can also promote thicker and fuller eyelashes.

How to Use

• Application: Brew a cup of green tea, let it cool, and use a cotton swab to apply it to your eyelashes.
• Frequency: Apply twice daily, in the morning and at night.
• Tips: Use organic green tea to avoid any pesticides or chemicals.

Vitamin E Oil

Benefits

Vitamin E oil is a powerful antioxidant that repairs damaged hair follicles and promotes healthy hair growth. It also conditions the eyelashes, making them stronger and less prone to breakage.

How to Use

• Application: Puncture a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil directly to your eyelashes using a clean brush or your fingertips.
• Frequency: Apply nightly for optimal results.
• Tips: Be gentle to avoid pulling out any eyelashes.

Eyelid Massage

Benefits

Massaging your eyelids can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth. It also helps in distributing the natural oils produced by the sebaceous glands, keeping the eyelashes moisturized.

How to Perform

• Technique: Using your fingertips, gently massage your eyelids in circular motions for a few minutes each day.
• Frequency: Perform this massage daily, preferably at night.
• Tips: Use light pressure to avoid damaging the delicate skin around your eyes.

Shea Butter

Benefits

Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E, both of which are essential for hair growth. It also provides deep moisturization, keeping the eyelashes soft and preventing them from breaking.

How to Use

• Application: Melt a small amount of shea butter between your fingers and apply it to your eyelashes.
• Frequency: Use every night before bed.
• Tips: Ensure the shea butter is pure and unrefined for the best results.

FAQ: Natural Remedies for Eyelash Growth

1. Do natural remedies for eyelash growth really work?

Yes, natural remedies can be effective for promoting eyelash growth. Ingredients like castor oil, coconut oil, and aloe vera are rich in nutrients that nourish and strengthen the hair follicles, encouraging healthier and longer lashes. However, results can vary from person to person and usually require consistent application over time.

2. How long does it take to see results from natural eyelash growth treatments?

It typically takes several weeks to a few months to see noticeable results from natural eyelash growth treatments. Patience and consistency are crucial, as natural remedies work gradually to nourish and strengthen the lashes.

3. Are there any side effects to using natural eyelash growth remedies?

Most natural remedies are safe to use, but they can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It’s important to do a patch test before applying any product to your eyelashes. If you experience redness, itching, or swelling, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

4. Can I use multiple natural remedies at the same time?

Yes, you can use multiple natural remedies, but it’s important to introduce them gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions. For example, you can use castor oil at night and green tea in the morning. Always ensure that the remedies do not mix directly and cause potential irritation.

5. Is it safe to apply oils like castor oil or coconut oil near the eyes?

When applied carefully, oils like castor oil and coconut oil are generally safe for use around the eyes. However, be cautious not to get the oil into your eyes, as it can cause irritation. Use a clean mascara brush or a cotton swab for precise application.

6. Can natural remedies for eyelash growth be used with mascara and other eye makeup?

Yes, natural remedies can be used in conjunction with mascara and other eye makeup. However, it’s important to apply the remedies on clean, makeup-free eyelashes and allow them to absorb fully before applying makeup. Always remove makeup gently to avoid damaging your lashes.

Conclusion

Growing eyelashes naturally requires patience, consistency, and a holistic approach that includes proper nutrition, gentle care, and the use of natural remedies. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can achieve longer, thicker, and healthier eyelashes over time.

Image Credit: Image by freepik