Eyelashes do a lot more than just enhance our facial features; they serve an important function that directly affects our vision. They are the first line of defense against environmental irritants such as dirt, sweat, and other debris.

Like the hair on our heads, eyelashes have a specific growth cycle that goes through three stages: anagen (the growth stage), catagen (the transition stage), and telogen (the resting stage). Read on to better understand the eyelash growth cycle:

The Anagen Phase (Growth Phase)

The eyelash cycle’s active growth stage, called the anagen phase, typically lasts 30 to 45 days. During this time, hair follicle cells are producing lash hairs that are still in the developing phase. Unlike our scalp hair, lashes have a much shorter growth cycle.

Though we can’t detect them when looking in the mirror, our eyelashes naturally go through growth, rest, and shedding cycles. In the most active growth stage of the lash cycle, proper care can help maintain the lashes in anagen, prevent shedding, promote optimal growth, and better nourish the hairs.

The Catagen Phase (Transition Phase)

After the anagen phase, the catagen phase is a stage of transition that lasts about two to three weeks. It is a time when the hair follicle shrinks and growth slows to a stop. Even though the lash is not getting any nutrients or oxygen from the blood supply, it hangs on until it is ready to fall out and get replaced.

As with regular hair, the eyelash will not start regrowing until the follicle finishes the transition and reenters the anagen phase. Aggressive rubbing, eyelash extensions, and certain medical conditions can lead to eyelash loss. Keep this in mind when judging your individual results.

The Telogen Phase (Resting Phase)

The eyelash growth cycle has a final stage called the telogen phase, which is also known as the resting or shedding phase. This phase can last from 100 to 150 days, allowing old lashes to remain in place just long enough for them to fall out naturally before they are replaced by new lashes.

It must be emphasized that in the telogen phase, shedding is completely normal and necessary for eyelash regeneration.

How to Support Healthy Eyelash Growth

For maintaining robust, healthy eyelashes, following appropriate care practices that are in line with the natural growth cycle is essential. Don’t rub your eyes excessively, and do be gentle when you’re removing eye makeup. Refrain from using eyelash curlers (and heavy mascara) that can smash your lashes.

If you’re an eyelash enthusiast, feed your lashes with castor oil, vitamin E, or specialized lash growth serums. And don’t forget to eat a balanced diet! Hair (and eyelash) nutrition is extremely important.

Maximizing Eyelash Growth for Luscious Lashes

Proper eyelash care is not all that different than caring for the hair on your head. With a few simple practices to maintain the health of your eyelashes, you can enjoy growth, fullness, and general lash health for years to come, without having to worry about brittleness, damage, or premature shedding.