Long, lush, and healthy eyelashes rank high on a woman's beauty wish list. But not everyone is lucky to have them naturally. Besides enhancing beauty, lashes play an important role in maintaining the eyes' health by acting as a barrier against dust, debris, and other harmful particles.
As you age, you may feel like your lashes have thinned out. However, this is often an optical illusion. We are born with a set number of follicles, and that doesn’t change over time. Like hair on our scalp, eyelashes go through a natural cycle of growth, shedding, and regrowth. Other factors that can contribute to eyelash loss include alopecia, infections, or chemotherapy.
The good news is that you can achieve stronger, fuller lashes by making a few lifestyle changes, adopting a healthy routine, and avoiding habits that weaken them.
To build better eyelashes, it's essential to identify and eliminate bad habits that may be causing them harm.
1. Overusing Waterproof Mascara: Waterproof mascara is great for long-lasting wear, but its formulation is difficult to remove. The extra effort required to take it off can lead to lash breakage over time.
2. Harsh Makeup Removal Methods: Rubbing or tugging at your eyes when removing makeup can weaken your lashes. Instead, use a gentle remover and dab or pat your lashes rather than pulling.
3. Sleeping with Makeup On: Leaving mascara or eye makeup on overnight can cause lashes to dry, become brittle, and fall out more easily. [Easily Remove Your Makeup- Even When You're Feeling Lazy]
4. Curling Lashes Too Often: Using an eyelash curler improperly or too frequently can weaken and break your lashes. Always curl before applying mascara and use a clean, padded curler.
5. Using Expired Eye Products: Old mascara or lash serums can harbor bacteria, leading to infections and lash loss. Make sure to replace eye products every 3-6 months.
6. Not Conditioning Your Lashes: Like hair, lashes need nourishment. Failing to condition them can cause them to become dry and brittle.
To enhance lash growth and health, incorporate these natural remedies and best practices into your daily routine.
Natural oils like castor oil, coconut oil, and almond oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that strengthen and condition lashes. Apply a small amount with a clean mascara wand before bedtime.
Aloe vera hydrates and nourishes lashes while preventing breakage. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to your lashes and leave it overnight for best results.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that repairs and strengthens lash follicles. Apply vitamin E oil directly to your lashes or consume vitamin E-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, and leafy greens.
Using a clean mascara wand, gently brush your eyelashes daily to stimulate blood circulation and evenly distribute natural oils, keeping them healthy and strong.
A diet rich in biotin, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids promotes strong and healthy lashes. Include eggs, fish, nuts, and leafy greens in your meals to support lash growth.
Green tea is packed with antioxidants and flavonoids that encourage lash growth. Brew a cup of green tea, let it cool, and apply it to your lashes with a cotton pad.
Lash serums containing peptides, vitamins, and nourishing ingredients can accelerate growth and thickness. Use a high-quality, dermatologist-approved serum for best results.
Dehydration can weaken hair follicles, including those of your eyelashes. Drink plenty of water daily to maintain hydration and lash health.
Lack of sleep affects hair growth, including your lashes. Ensure you get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to allow proper lash repair and regeneration.
If you use artificial lashes or lash extensions, follow these safety guidelines to prevent damage:
Achieving long, lush eyelashes naturally requires patience and consistency. By avoiding bad habits, nourishing your lashes, and maintaining a healthy diet, you can improve strength and fullness over time.
Eyelashes are delicate, and taking care of them enhances not only your beauty but also the health of your eyes. Commit to a proper routine, and soon you’ll be flaunting thick, beautiful lashes!