Eyelashes, the tiny hairs that adorn our eyelids, are much more than just a cosmetic feature. With each blink, they filter the air, repel dust, and limit the impact of micro-droplets that can irritate the eyes. This protective function, often underestimated, is accompanied by a precise biological rhythm: the eyelash life cycle .
Like hair, each eyelash goes through several phases before falling out and giving way to a new one. But unlike hair, their cycle is shorter and their growth is limited by genetics . Understanding this cycle is essential to understanding why your eyelashes fall out, how they grow back, and how to maintain their health, whether or not you wear extensions.
1. Quick anatomy of the eyelash
An eyelash is a hair like any other, but it has unique characteristics:
- Average length : between 6 and 12 mm for the upper eyelid and 4 to 6 mm for the lower one.
- Root : located in a hair follicle in the skin of the eyelid.
- Cycle : shorter than that of hair (4 to 11 weeks in total).
- Role : mechanical and sensory protection.
Interesting fact : The average density of an adult eye is estimated to be 150 to 200 eyelashes on the upper eyelid and 70 to 100 on the lower eyelid. This density, combined with their natural orientation, forms an effective barrier against external aggressions.
2. The three phases of the eyelash life cycle
Each eyelash lives independently of the others. This means that even if you lose one or two lashes during the day, the lash line remains full, because other lashes are either growing or in the resting phase. Each one follows these three stages:
Anagen phase – active growth
Average duration : between 30 and 45 days, depending on genetics and health status.
During this phase, the hair follicle is fully active. The matrix at the base of the hair produces new cells that gradually lengthen, forming the eyelash. The longer this period, the longer the eyelash will be at maturity.
Anagen eyelashes are, moreover, deeply rooted and difficult to pull out , except by mechanical damage.
Beauty tip : To slow the transition to the next phase and prolong this growth, apply a strengthening eyelash serum every evening to the roots. Formulas enriched with peptides, biotin, or panthenol are particularly effective.
Catagen phase – the fragile transition
Duration : approximately 2 to 3 weeks.
The eyelash has reached its maximum length. The follicle stops producing new cells and begins to shrink. This is a consolidation stage, meaning the eyelash remains attached, but its base is more fragile.
Any friction or greasy product can cause premature hair loss .
Tip : If you're wearing extensions, this is the phase when they're most vulnerable. Avoid waterproof mascaras, oily makeup removers, and any harsh movements on the lash line.
Telogen phase – rest before shedding
Duration : 4 to 9 weeks.
The eyelash is at the end of its life. It no longer grows, but remains in place until a new eyelash in the anagen phase pushes it outward. This loss is natural, and losing 1 to 5 eyelashes per day is perfectly normal.
A healthy cycle means that an eyelash that falls out is already being replaced by another one that is developing .
Good habit : never pull on an eyelash that looks ready to fall out, this could damage the follicle and slow down regrowth.
3. The duration of the complete cycle
Typically, a full cycle lasts 4 to 11 weeks , but this can vary depending on:
- Age (renewal is slower with age).
- Health status (fatigue, stress, deficiencies can slow down growth).
- Care habits (regular maintenance or not).
- External aggressions (pollution, aggressive makeup, sun).
- Chemical treatments (eyelash perms, extensions, tints).
Because each eyelash has its own schedule, your eyelids are never completely bald , even with more frequent loss.
4. Why are your eyelashes falling out more than usual?
Moderate daily shedding is normal. But if your eyelashes are falling out in large quantities or you notice sparse areas, you need to find out the cause.
Common causes:
- Makeup removal too aggressively (repeated rubbing).
- Extensions too heavy or poorly made.
- Unsuitable products or products containing too much oil.
- Deficiencies in protein, B vitamins, zinc or iron.
- Allergic reactions to a specific product (glue, mascara).
- Skin diseases or medical treatment (e.g. chemotherapy).
In case of excessive loss, it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist or dermatologist .
5. Maintain your eyelashes daily
Cleansing and makeup removal
- Use a gentle, oil-free eye makeup remover if you wear extensions.
- Soak a cotton pad, place it on your closed eyelid, leave it on for a few seconds, then remove without rubbing.
- Clean the eyelash line with a brush or special brush to avoid the accumulation of sebum and dust.
Hydration and nutrition
- Light oils like castor, argan or vitamin E nourish the fiber and strengthen growth.
- Apply them only to natural eyelashes (avoid extensions).
- A serum can complement this routine to stimulate regrowth .
Extensions: precautions
- Avoid saunas, steam rooms and hot water for 24 hours after application.
- Brush gently every morning to avoid tangles.
- Schedule maintenance every 3 to 4 weeks .
- Use a professional service to avoid any damage to the natural eyelash.
6. Extensions and the natural cycle: what you need to understand
Extensions follow the lifespan of the natural eyelash on which they are placed:
- On an anagen eyelash, they will last longer.
- On a telogen eyelash, they will fall out faster.
In practice : if some extensions fall out only a few days after application, it is probably because the eyelash was already at the end of its cycle.
7. Good reflexes to maintain a full look
- Alternate periods with and without extensions to allow eyelashes to grow back healthily .
- Maintain the eyelash line daily with gentle brushing.
- Avoid oily products on the eyes when having extensions.
- Eat a diet rich in protein, vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 .
- Use specific treatments to strengthen the fiber and protect the follicle.
The eyelash life cycle is a natural three-stage process: the anagen (growth) phase, the catagen (transition) phase, and the telogen (resting) phase. Each lash follows its own rhythm, ensuring a consistently full look.
By understanding how this works, you can adapt your routine to slow hair loss, stimulate regrowth, and optimize the hold of your extensions. With gentle gestures, regular maintenance, and appropriate care , your eyelashes will remain dense, healthy, and ready to enhance your look day after day!
Eyelash Life Cycle FAQ
What are the main factors that can slow down natural eyelash growth?
Age, stress, fatigue, or poor diet can slow eyelash growth. Deficiencies in protein, zinc, iron, or B vitamins weaken the fiber. External factors such as pollution or harsh makeup can also disrupt their natural cycle.
How do eyelash extensions affect the natural eyelash cycle?
Extensions fall out with the natural eyelash depending on its life stage. If they are too heavy or improperly applied, they weaken the eyelashes and disrupt their regrowth. This can cause premature loss or weaken the follicle.
Why is it not recommended to pull on an eyelash that is about to fall out?
Pulling on an eyelash can damage the follicle and slow regrowth. This weakens the root and disrupts natural renewal. It's best to let the eyelash fall out on its own.
What are the recommendations for proper eyelash cleaning, especially when wearing extensions?
Use a gentle, oil-free makeup remover if you wear extensions. Cleanse gently without rubbing, placing the cotton pad on your eyelid for a few seconds. A fine brush can help clean the lash line and prevent buildup.
What natural treatments can stimulate eyelash regrowth and improve their health?
Oils like castor or argan nourish eyelashes and support their growth. Regular use of a strengthening serum can also prolong the anagen phase. These treatments are only applied to natural eyelashes, without extensions.
