Losing your eyelashes can be concerning. Beyond aesthetics, eyelashes can play an important role in keeping smaller debris out of our eyes. Though losing eyelashes is often a cosmetic concern for many people, it can be a symptom of medical conditions. The following conditions can cause eyelash hair loss:
Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is a condition typically triggered by anxiety or stress. The condition causes those who suffer from it to impulsively pull their hair, lashes, or eyebrows out. According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) about 0.5% to 3% of people will experience this condition in their lifetime.
Thyroid Issues
Fluctuating thyroid function can impact hair growth in a number of ways. Both overactive and underactive thyroid can prompt hair thinning and hair loss which can certainly impact your lashes. In addition to hair loss, symptoms of hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, may include trouble sleeping, sudden weight loss, headaches, and tremors. Those suffering from hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, can also experience hair thinning, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, constipation, and weight gain.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is a skin condition which causes patchy hair loss. While it often affects the scalp, it can also impact hair loss elsewhere on the body, including your eyelashes. This condition is understood to be an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks hair follicles. While some cases of alopecia areata are temporary, some patients may experience permanent hair loss. While the condition is relatively rare, those who have been diagnosed with vitiligo, thyroid diseases, Down syndrome, asthma, and hay fever are at a higher risk of developing alopecia areata.
The following may also cause eyelash hair loss:
- Makeup allergies – Mascara, makeup remover, face wash, or any other cosmetics that you use around your lashes could be irritating the nearby follicles.
- Blepharitis – This condition is caused when the oil glands on the inner eyelids become irritated and inflamed.
- Chemotherapy – When undergoing chemotherapy, hair loss is a common side effect.
- Natural Hair Loss – As we age, we all lose some amount of hair density. In many cases, the reason for this hair loss can be tied to aging or environmental factors.
If you are experiencing eyelash hair loss, you may also be experiencing scalp hair loss. The scalp micropigmentation specialists at Hairline Ink understand that hair loss can be stressful and we have a solution. We offer Scalp Micropigmentation in over 50 US cities. Call or text us today at 833-HAIR-INK (833-424-7465) to schedule an appointment, learn about our pricing, or get a free quote!
