It is perfectly natural for eyelashes to fall out. They are usually replaced with new ones, and the loss isn't even noticed. In some cases, however, this is not what happens. Certain illnesses can cause lashes to fall out faster than new ones are produced. Eyelashes can also be lost--and their growth slowed--through injury or cancer treatment. Regardless of the reason for the loss, there are some things that can be done to help regrowth.
Get Healthy
The first step in eyelash regrowth is finding the cause. A number of illnesses can cause eyelash loss and slow growth. Alopecia, a condition that can cause hair loss throughout the body, can also present with eyelash loss. Hypothyroidism and allergies also can cause problems with eyelash growth. See a doctor for a full physical to find out if your eyelash loss is related to a health problem that can be treated.
Healing
Eyelash growth problems might be caused by trauma or injury to the area. Consult with a dermatologist as to whether there is any way to heal the area so the eyelashes will grow back naturally. If the lack of eyelashes is due to a cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, they should begin to grow back after treatment has ended and the body has eliminated the chemicals from the treatment. If the problem is from a burn, there might be something that can heal the skin faster so the eyelashes can grow.
Lifestyle
Just like the rest of your body, eyelashes need a healthy base to grow. Be sure to eat a healthy diet that includes vitamins A, B and H (biotin), which help to promote hair growth. Drink plenty of water and watch your cholesterol levels. Getting enough sleep and avoiding stress also might help with eyelash regrowth. A regular exercise routine is always a good idea to keep your whole body healthy.
Latisse
Latisse is the first prescription medication that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for eyelash regrowth of the upper lid. It is a .03 percent solution of bimatoprost ophthalmic, a medication that was previously used to treat glaucoma. Latisse can improve eyelashes by making them grow longer, fuller and darker. It is considered relatively safe, but can cause itching or redness within the eyes. It also might cause a darkening of the eyelid.
Warnings
Though additional products might appear on the market, as of 2009, the only FDA approved product shown to be safe for eyelash regrowth was Latisse. Do not use any other products in or near your eye without the approval of a physician, even those sold over-the-counter without a prescription. Drops and lotions used for eyelash regrowth can be dangerous and could harm your vision if not used under a doctor's care.
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