When we think of beautiful eyes, it’s hard not to be enchanted by the impact of long, luscious eyelashes. If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then the eyelashes are the frames that make them truly pop. But let’s not forget, our eyelashes endure a lot of wear and tear.
With the rise of lash enhancement treatments and new products, we have more options than ever to achieve full, lush lashes. However, these treatments can sometimes harm the health of our natural lashes in the long run. Beyond making our eyes look stunning, eyelashes play a crucial role in protecting our eyes from dirt and small particles. That’s why keeping lashes healthy is essential and non-negotiable.
Some Eyelash Fun Facts
Before we dive into useful tips for healthier eyelashes, let’s marvel at some fun facts about them:
- Lashes fall out daily: It’s normal to lose five to seven lashes each day. Eyelashes have a shorter growth cycle than the hair on your head, lasting only about three months, which is why they don’t grow very long.
- Lashes grow in stages: The growth cycle includes the anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting) stages. The exogen stage is when old lashes fall out to make way for new ones.
- Upper lid hairs are thicker: Your upper lid has about 200 to 300 lashes, almost twice as many as the lower lid, which has around 100 lashes.
- Mites live in your lashes: Demodex mites remove dirt and debris, helping clean your lash follicles.
- Styled since ancient times: Eyelashes have been styled since 4000 BC!
The Must-Do Care Tips for Healthier Eyelashes
Batting a long, thick lash starts with proper care and conditioning. Here are seven tips you should follow for healthier, more beautiful natural eyelashes:
1. Moisturize and Hydrate Your Lashes
Water and essential oils are naturally nourishing for skin and hair, and the same applies to eyelashes. Dry lashes can become frizzy and brittle, leading to damage. Moisturizing helps promote fast and strong growth. Natural oils provide the conditioning elements needed to develop the noticeable volume we all desire.
2. Dedicate to a Healthy Diet
“Beauty is skin deep,” and a healthy body inside reflects outside. Nutritious food keeps your mind, body, and beauty in top shape. Including foods rich in proteins and healthy fats can promote lush, full lashes. Fatty fish, which are high in omega-3, can reduce hair fall and increase lash density. Niacin (vitamin B-3) helps prevent dry, brittle eyelashes and improves blood flow to hair follicles.
3. Avoid Make-up with Harsh Ingredients
Many modern make-up products contain ingredients that can harm your eyelashes. Avoid ethyl alcohol-based mascara and products with parabens and phthalates, as these can dry out lashes and make them brittle. When getting eyelash extensions, choose latex-free glue and avoid cheap, uncertified products. It’s better to use no product at all than to use damaging ones.
4. Clean Your Lashes
Eyelashes catch dirt and bacteria, which can build up and endanger both your lashes and your eyes. Leftover mascara and lash extension glue can lead to breakage. Clean your eyelashes to maintain their health. Use products with natural extracts and organic ingredients to deep clean and remove cosmetic residues. Proper cleaning promotes healthy growth significantly.
5. Avoid Scrubbing or Rubbing Your Eyes
Rubbing your eyes can be tempting, especially when they itch, but it causes more harm than good. Friction can twist and uproot lashes prematurely, reducing their volume. Rubbing can also damage the eyelids, hindering lash growth. Additionally, rubbing your eyes transfers germs from your hands to your eyes and lashes, which can lead to infections.
6. Brush Your Lashes Gently
Just like combing your hair, brushing your lashes can be beneficial. It helps remove residue from make-up and keeps lashes fluffed and in place. Use the right eyelash comb or wand and brush gently to avoid damage. Incorporating a brushing routine can help maintain lash health and appearance.
7. Let Your Lashes Breathe
Our eyelashes endure a lot, from protecting our eyes to enhancing our appearance. Make-up and lash treatments are tempting, but it’s essential to give your lashes a break. Allow your natural lashes to recover and regain their health. Taking breaks from mascara, lash extensions, and excessive curling lets your lashes grow naturally, giving you a chance to address any underlying issues.
Eyelashes are truly enchanting, and while we often focus on enhancing them with various treatments, their overall health should not be overlooked. Healthy lashes are the foundation of a stunning gaze. So, follow these care tips, and happy lashing!
With these seven must-do care tips, you can ensure your natural eyelashes remain strong, healthy, and beautiful. Remember, healthy lashes are the key to achieving that alluring look you desire.
