Eyelashes

If you’ve ever wondered what we’ve got in common with a cat or a mouse than just look in the mirror. Our eyelashes perform at least some of the same functions that the whiskers do on those animals - they have the same protective function, in that they are sensitive to touch and react reflexively when any object either touches them or comes near.

Development

Eyelashes form in the seventh to eighth week of life . Like hair on the rest of our body, they have an active growing phase (anagen) which lasts about 1-1.5 months. Each eyelash is embedded into the eyelid by an individual root which allows the ability to move with a degree of flexibility.

Eyelashes on the upper lid differ from the lower lids. Upper eyelashes are generally longer and curve in an upward direction. Lashes on the lower lids tend to be much shorter and are less curved.

Diseases and Disorders

There are several diseases and disorders that are unique to eyelashes

Madarosis
The term ciliary madorosis refers to the loss of the eyelashes. This should not be confused with superciliary madarosis, which denotes the loss of the eyebrows. Although there are a variety of diseases that can result in ciliary madorosis, it is equally possible that the condition occur from plucking or rubbing the eyelashes. The use of cosmetic makeup such as mascara can, in extreme cases, result in eyelash loss as well (waterproof mascara can actually take out lashes when it’s removed, therefore it's important to remove any cosmetic with the appropriate product and use it gently).

Blepharitis
This condition often entails a redness of the area where the eyelashes sprout from the eyelids. The skin around the eyelashes often becomes red and the eyelashes may fall out. Treatment often involves stopping the application of eye makeup until the condition subsides.

Trichiasis
The medical term for ingrown eyelashes. The causes for this condition can include infection, inflammation, burns or injury. A standard treatment includes laser surgery or electrology.

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