If your lashes seem thinner, shorter, or slower to grow than they once did, you're not alone — and there's usually a straightforward reason behind it. In this article we look at the natural lash growth cycle, the everyday habits that can hold your lashes back, and how to give them the right kind of support.
The growth cycle
Eyelashes follow a natural cycle of four to five months, made up of three phases. The anagen phase is the active growth phase, lasting 30 to 45 days. The catagen phase is a short transitional phase of two to three weeks, during which the follicle begins to shrink. The telogen phase is the resting phase — lasting up to 100 days — where the lash rests before finally shedding.
Lashes that fall out during the catagen or telogen phase have to complete the full cycle before a new one can grow in. That's what causes those temporary sparse patches, and it's nothing to worry about.
Environmental damage
Sun, heat, and wind affect your lashes in much the same way they affect the hair on your head. UV rays and heat sources — think hairdryers and heated eyelash curlers — dry the lashes out and make them brittle. Pollution and smog settle on the lashes and put daily strain on the follicles.
Diet and lifestyle
Dehydration is one of the most common and most overlooked reasons for sparse lashes. Aim for at least two litres of water a day, and cut back on salt and sugar, which dry out both hair and skin. Protein and healthy fats from lean meat, nuts, shellfish, and olive oil all help to keep the follicles strong and nourished.
Ageing
Lash growth naturally slows over time as the follicles begin to shrink. Building an eyelash serum into your routine early is the best way to counter this — it helps to keep the follicles active and healthy for longer.
Makeup habits
Mascara left on overnight dries the lashes out and increases the risk of breakage. Waterproof mascara requires more rubbing to remove, which puts extra pressure on the follicles. Old mascara should be replaced every three months to prevent bacterial build-up and infection. Never share eye makeup with anyone else.
Always use Caring Eyes Waterproof Make-Up Remover for a gentle removal that won't tug on your lashes — and keep a pack of makeup remover wipes to hand for those evenings when energy is low.
Overuse of lash extensions
Lash extensions worn for too long, or applied in back-to-back cycles without a break, can put pressure on your natural follicles and slow growth. Always give your lashes regular rest periods, and use Xlash Eyelash Serum during extension periods to keep your natural lashes strong underneath.
How to boost your lashes the right way
Build these three things into your daily routine and you'll notice a real difference before long. Drink enough water every day. Remove your makeup thoroughly every evening. Apply Xlash Eyelash Serum along the lash line immediately after your evening cleanse.
The serum contains natural ingredients and active proteins that penetrate deep into the follicles, stimulate growth, and give visibly longer, fuller lashes in 28 days. It's safe to use alongside lash extensions and suits all lifestyles.
Healthy lashes don't require hard work — just a little consistency.
