The eyelash growth cycle is divided into three stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen. The anagen phase is the active growth stage, which typically lasts between four and ten weeks. During this time, the eyelashes grow at a rate of 0.12 to 0.14 mm per day. Approximately 15% of the lower lashes and 35 to 40% of the upper lashes are in this phase at any given time.
The anagen phase is when the eyelash attaches to the dermal papilla, which supplies it with blood. This stage can last up to 100 days, allowing for a full set of lashes to remain in cycle while others are just beginning to grow in other follicles. To make sure their lashes were darker and thicker, women used homemade remedies such as vaseline and charcoal blends, elderberry formulas, ash and lamp oil until mascara became part of the makeup mainstream. Those with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism may find that their eyelashes do not grow due to weakened follicles or brittle hair that breaks before it has a chance to grow.
Once the eyelashes reach their designated length in the anagen phase, they stop growing and the hair follicle shrinks as they move on to the catagen phase. Attempts to extend eyelashes have been around since the 1800s when women experimented with gluing their lashes to the lash line. Everyone is born with a predetermined number of hair follicles and each individual lash is programmed to reach a certain length before falling out. Eyelashes are composed of sensory fibers that protect the eye from debris suspended in the air by reflexively closing the eyelid when hit by dust particles.
A balanced diet that includes lean meat and dairy products can provide the protein needed for healthy-looking lashes. An eyelash serum can also be used to stimulate growth and a gentle cleaner can help prevent them from falling out prematurely. A well-formulated serum like Uklash has the ability to extend the time an eyelash spends in the growth phase. Mascara, if not used or cleaned properly, can lead to weaker lashes and premature loss. But don't worry - like everything else on earth, alive or not, eyelashes go through a natural cycle of fall and growth.
If an eyelash falls during the catagen phase, it will not grow again until this phase has finished its course.
