How Long Does It Take for Eyelashes to Grow Back

Why Do Eyelashes Fall Out?

Losing a few lashes is normal. On average, you lose one to five lashes per day. It happens naturally as part of your lash life cycle.

But sometimes, lashes fall out in larger amounts. Reasons include:

• Rubbing your eyes too much
• Using old or poor-quality makeup
• Eyelash curlers
• Wearing heavy mascara often
• Lash extensions
• Stress or lack of sleep
• Medical treatments or conditions

When more than a few fallout, or they don’t grow back, it may be time to look deeper.

Eyelash Growth Cycle Explained

Eyelashes go through three stages:

1. Anagen (Growth stage): Lasts 30–45 days. The lash is growing.
2. Catagen (Transition stage): Lasts 2–3 weeks. Growth stops.
3. Telogen (Resting stage): Lasts 4–9 weeks. Old lashes fall, and new ones start growing.

If a lash falls during the resting stage, it will take longer to grow back since it must complete the cycle again.

How Long Does It Take for Eyelashes to Grow Back?

In most cases, eyelashes grow back within 6 to 8 weeks. But timing depends on:

• How the lash fell out (natural or pulled)
• Age and health
• Nutrition and sleep habits
• Any eye-related conditions

If you accidentally pull out a lash, it can take a bit longer. The follicle may need to recover first.

Eyelash Regrowth Time After Pulling or Plucking

Pulling a lash out from the root delays the process. The follicle needs time to heal. On average, lashes grow back in:

• 8 to 12 weeks if pulled or plucked
• 4 to 8 weeks if they fell out naturally

Repeated pulling (like in trichotillomania) may damage the follicle permanently. In that case, lashes may not grow back.

Growth After Lash Extensions or Curlers

Using lash extensions can weaken or damage natural lashes. Adhesives and removal processes stress the hair and sometimes the skin around it.

If lashes fall out after extensions:

• Regrowth may take 6–10 weeks
• If you let lashes rest and avoid further damage, they usually come back fine

Curlers can also cause breakage. Pressing too hard or using them on dry lashes can lead to snapping.

Eyelash Loss from Medical Conditions or Treatments

Some people lose lashes due to the following:

• Chemotherapy
• Thyroid imbalances
• Skin disorders like eczema or blepharitis
• Autoimmune conditions (like alopecia areata)

In these cases, regrowth may take several months and depend on the body’s recovery. Sometimes, lashes do not return to their full length or thickness.

Factors That Affect Eyelash Growth Speed

Lash growth isn’t the same for everyone. Here are things that can slow or support it:

Slows growth:

• Poor diet
• Chronic stress
• Lack of sleep
• Overuse of makeup
• Smoking

Supports growth:

• Healthy diet
• Clean eye habits
• Moisturizing products
• Rest and recovery

Home Remedies to Support Eyelash Growth

There’s no magic solution, but these methods can help:

• Use a gentle eyelash brush daily to stimulate the area
• Apply aloe vera gel (check for allergies first)
• Massage eyelids lightly to improve blood flow
• Use a mild cleanser to remove makeup fully

Consistency is key. Don’t expect results overnight.

Can Castor Oil or Serums Help?

Castor oil is often used as a natural lash booster. While scientific proof is limited, many people say it makes their lashes look fuller.

Lash serums with peptides, biotin, or plant-based oils may support stronger growth.

Tips:

• Always patch-test products
• Avoid getting them in your eyes
• Stop use if irritation starts

Makeup Habits That Can Slow Growth

Certain habits hurt more than help:

• Not removing mascara before sleep
• Using expired or dry products
• Rubbing eyes to remove makeup
• Applying too many layers of mascara
• Heating lash curlers

Gentle removal and clean brushes protect both lashes and your skin.

When to See a Doctor for Eyelash Loss

If you notice:

• Bald patches in your lash line
• Red or swollen eyelids
• Itching or crusting
• No regrowth after 2–3 months

… it’s time to talk to a doctor or dermatologist. You may need tests for underlying conditions or a prescription product like Latisse.

Common Myths About Eyelash Regrowth

Let’s clear some things up:

Myth: Lashes won’t grow back if you cut them

Truth: Cutting doesn’t stop growth. But trimming offers no real benefit.

Myth: Vaseline grows lashes

Truth: It moisturizes the skin but doesn’t trigger growth.

Myth: You must never wear mascara

Truth: You can—just be gentle and clean.

Tips to Avoid Eyelash Damage

Protect your lashes with these simple habits:

• Remove makeup before bed
• Avoid rubbing or tugging your eyes
• Use fresh, clean mascara every 3 months
• Let lashes breathe between heavy makeup days
• Avoid overusing eyelash curlers and extensions

These steps help keep the lash follicle healthy and reduce breakage.

Nutrients That Help Your Lashes Grow

Your lashes are hair—just shorter. Hair grows better with the proper fuel:

• Biotin: Found in eggs, nuts, seeds
• Protein: Needed for hair structure
• Zinc: Supports hair repair
• Vitamin E: Protects cells and helps recovery
• Omega-3 fats: Found in fish, chia seeds

You don’t need fancy supplements. Real food goes a long way.

Realistic Expectations and Patience

Lashes take time to grow. You won’t wake up in a week with longer ones—but you will see changes over 6 to 12 weeks if you take care of your eyes.

It’s okay to wear makeup, try natural oils, or take breaks when needed. Just don’t expect instant results.

FAQs