Lash

Complete Guide to Understanding Your Eyelash Growth Cycle

If you’ve noticed your lashes looking sparser than you’d like, you might be wondering how long it will take for them to regrow.

Just like the hair on your head, your eyelashes go through a natural cycle of growth and eventual shedding. Being too harsh on your lashes while removing makeup or using a lash curler can result in premature shedding. But the growth process happens in phases that take time.

Before trying costly beauty treatments like lash extensions or tinting, it’s important to understand your lash growth cycle. Understanding how your eyelashes grow and shed is crucial for maintaining their health and appearance. Time for a lesson in eyelash biology 101.

What Are Lash Phases — and Why Should You Care?

Each person typically has about 150-200 natural lashes per eye on their upper eyelids, and 75-100 on the lower lids. Regardless of differences in length, thickness, and color, everyone's lashes follow the same three-phase growth cycle. These phases are called Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen.

Did you know? Eyelashes are made of a protein called keratin. This is the same material as the hair on your head and body.

Anagen Phase: Active Growth

During the Anagen phase, lashes grow actively for around 30-45 days. About 40 percent of your lashes are in this phase at any given time. Once a lash reaches its maximum length, growth stops.

The duration of the Anagen phase can vary based on several factors. Genetics play a significant role, with some people genetically predisposed to longer Anagen phases, resulting in longer lashes.

Additionally, age and hormonal changes can influence the length of the Anagen phase. Younger people typically have longer Anagen phases than older people, resulting in more robust lash growth. (Yes, unfortunately—eyelash aging is real.)

External factors such as diet, stress levels, and overall health can also impact the Anagen phase. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for hair growth. These include vitamin D, iron, and protein.

Did you know? Trichomegaly is the name of a condition that causes lash hair to grow faster and exceptionally long.

Catagen Phase: Transition

In the Catagen phase, which lasts 2-3 weeks, lashes reach their maximum length, and growth halts. If a lash falls out during this phase, it won't start growing back until this phase is over.

Did you know? The record for the longest eyelash measured is 8 inches long.

Telogen Phase: Rest and Renewal

The resting / shedding phase is known as the Telogen phase. This lasts 3-4 months. During this time, a new hair begins to grow from the hair follicle, eventually pushing out the old hair.

There’s no reason to get worried about normal lash shedding. They are just making room for new ones! Because each individual lash is in its own phase of the cycle, it’s normal for a few lashes to fall out every day. It usually takes 4-8 weeks to fully replace a lash.

During the Telogen phase, the hair follicles remain dormant before re-entering the Anagen phase to initiate new lash growth. This resting period allows the follicles to replenish their energy stores and prepare for the next cycle of growth.

Factors such as hormonal fluctuations and environmental stressors can influence the duration of the Telogen phase. For example, changes in hormone levels during pregnancy or menopause can disrupt the hair growth cycle. This can lead to increased hair shedding during the Telogen phase. This type of hair loss is called telogen effluvium.

Did you know? The length of your eyelashes is proportional to the size of your eyes. Lashes are typically as long as one-third the width of the eye.

Expert Tips for Healthy Lashes Throughout the Cycle

Damage can cause hairs to break off mid-cycle. We recommend that you to keep your lashes healthy and conditioned. This is especially important if you use makeup daily or get cosmetic treatments like eyelash extensions or lash lifts.

To keep your lashes healthy throughout the lash cycle, follow these expert tips:

Remove makeup carefully. Use a gentle, oil-free cleanser or micellar water to remove makeup without damaging your lashes. (Our Micellar Water Lash Wash is a fan favorite. It's designed to be gentle on delicate lashes and the sensitive eye area).
Avoid waterproof eye makeup. Waterproof mascara, eyeliner, or eye shadow can be harsh on lashes and skin. We recommend you opt for formulas with conditioning benefits instead.Waterproof makeup can also be difficult to remove. This could lead to pulling or tugging on your lashes, which can damage them or cause them to shed prematurely.

Use a lash serum. Incorporate a lash serum like RevitaLash® Advanced into your routine to strengthen lashes and protect against breakage. This physician-developed formula includes peptides, biotin, and antioxidant-rich plant extracts to improve lash flexibility, strength, and shine.
Handle with care. Avoid tugging on your lashes or rubbing your eyes to prevent damage. When using a lash curler, take care not to crimp your lashes too tightly. This can contribute to hair shaft breakage.
Nourish your lashes regularly. Treat your lashes to a nourishing masque like our Lash & Brow Masque twice a week to repair damage and promote overall lash health.

Sources:

“What Are the Four Stages of Hair Growth?” Healthline - Accessed 19 March 2024.

“The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review”. Dermatology and Therapy – Accessed 19 March 2024

“How Fast Do Eyelashes Grow?” Healthline - Accessed 19 March 2024.

“Eyelash Trichomegaly”. Indian Journal of Dermatology - Accessed 19 March 2024.

“Longest Eyelash”. Guinness World Records - Accessed 19 March 2024.

“Your Eyelashes Should Be This Long, Science Says”. Scientific American - Accessed 19 March 2024.

Conclusion: Your Lash Cycle Is the Key

Understanding your eyelash growth cycle is essential for maintaining healthy and beautiful lashes. By following simple tips like gentle makeup removal, using lash serum, and handling your lashes with care, you can ensure that your lashes remain in optimal condition throughout the cycle.

While individual differences may influence the pace of lash growth, consistent care and nourishment will help you achieve your desired lash goals over time. With proper attention and maintenance, you can enjoy lush, healthy lashes that enhance your natural beauty.

FAQs About the Lash Cycle

Why do lashes grow faster for some people?

The rate of lash growth varies from person to person. Factors like genetics, age, overall health, and lifestyle can affect it. Genetics play a significant role in determining lash length, thickness, and growth rate.