Long, thick eyelashes are touted as one of the most desirable features a person can have. Thousands of products are sold to enhance the look of lashes, from mascara to lash conditioner to lash extensions. So, when you wake up in the morning and notice an eyelash or two that have fallen out and are resting on your cheeks, it can be a little unsettling. But it's important to understand that this is normal process, because like every other hair on your body, eyelashes are perpetually moving through a natural growth cycle.

Eyelash Function

Eyelashes aren't just a pretty feature on the body; they have a very specific and important function. Eyelashes are designed to prevent objects from getting in the eyes. Each eyelash is actually a sensory hair that reflexively shuts the eyelid whenever it is touched by dirt, dust or anything else that could possibly get in the eye. The upper lid typically has about 90 to 150 lashes on it, while the bottom has between 70 and 80 lashes. Most eyelashes grow to be about 10 mm long (just over 3/8 inch).

Eyelash and Hair Growth

Although it may not seem like it, hair growth is a preset function of the body. Every hair on your body follows a specific growth cycle and will grow to a specific length. Hair follows a three-phase growth cycle and eventually falls out, which is typically nothing to worry about. In fact, body hair, including eyelashes, completely replaces itself every few years.

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