Experts warn: This eyelash habit could cause major damage
Why trimming your eyelashes is strictly prohibited (photo: magnific)
Trimming eyelashes may seem like a safe way to make them look neater, but in reality, it disrupts their protective function. Cutting them short increases the likelihood of irritation, micro-injuries, and inflammatory processes along the eyelid margin, according to reports from the Cleveland Clinic.
Eyelash trimming: Safe or risky?
Dermatologist and medical doctor Stephanie Trovato explained that eyelashes typically have a limited growth cycle and rarely reach a length that could cause any problems.
Some people believe shorter lashes look neater or more natural. However, this is not the case, and such actions have serious drawbacks.
Sharp scissors can introduce bacteria, especially if they are not clean. In addition to potential injury to the eye or eyelid, trimming eyelashes can also cause irritation, increasing the risk of:
- Inflammation
- Infection
- Short-term vision changes
In some cases, trimming eyelashes may contribute to conditions such as eyelid inflammation that requires medical treatment.
Role of eyelashes in eye health
Eyelashes act as a barrier, reducing the amount of dust and debris that reaches the eye's surface. Their natural curve also helps divert fluids and irritants, such as sweat, away from the eye.
Another interesting fact about eyelashes: when something touches them, they trigger a blink reflex.
Trimming can also increase the risk of dust and debris reaching the eye surface. This may lead to inflammation, irritation, and other symptoms.
Will they grow back?
Eyelashes grow from small roots in the skin of the eyelid—follicles. These are responsible for producing new hair.
If you only trim the visible part of the hair, the follicle is not damaged and continues to function normally.
The trimmed lash remains in place, but over time, it naturally completes its life cycle and falls out. This is a normal process that occurs continuously, even without trimming.
Meanwhile, the follicle starts producing a new hair. It begins short and fine, then gradually lengthens. The full eyelash growth cycle takes about 6–12 weeks, sometimes slightly longer depending on the person.
When to see doctor
You should consult a doctor if you experience symptoms such as:
- Sudden changes in eyelash appearance (number, length, thickness, etc.)
- Loss or abnormal growth of eyelashes
- Eye pain, redness, or discharge
- Gritty or scratching sensation, as if something is stuck in the eye
- Vision problems, such as blurred vision or light sensitivity
- Redness or swelling of the eyelids
- Excessive tearing
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
