Why Are My Eyelashes Falling Out? (Here’s What You Need to Know)
It’s one of those things you don’t really notice—until you do.
Maybe it’s a few extra lashes on your pillow. Or your eyeliner doesn’t glide on the same because there’s less lash line to follow. For many people, eyelash thinning sneaks up slowly—then suddenly becomes impossible to ignore.
If you’ve found yourself asking, “Why are my eyelashes falling out?”, you’re not alone. And no, you’re not imagining it.
As an optometrist, I see this more often than you might think. It’s called madarosis, and while it can be unsettling, there are real answers—and real treatments—that can help.
What Is Madarosis?
Madarosis is the medical term for the loss or thinning of eyelashes and eyebrows. It can be caused by something as simple as eye irritation or as complex as an underlying autoimmune disease.
Common causes include:
Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) – reduces blood flow to the follicles, weakening lashes
Allergic reactions – triggered by makeup, contact lens solutions, or seasonal allergies
Mechanical trauma – including eye rubbing or harsh makeup removal
Cosmetic practices – like frequent lash extensions or overuse of waterproof mascara
Systemic health conditions – such as thyroid disorders, lupus, or alopecia areata
Cancer treatments – like chemotherapy, which affects fast-growing hair follicles
Psychological disorders – such as trichotillomania, a compulsion to pull out hair
Step One: Remove the Source of Irritation
The most important first step is to reduce inflammation and give the lashes a chance to regrow.
That often means taking a break from eye makeup, lash glue, and cosmetic procedures for at least 6–8 weeks. It also means evaluating your contact lens habits—especially if you’re using a solution that contains preservatives.
Consider this swap:
If you wear reusable lenses, try switching to a daily disposable contact lens. These lenses are replaced every day, reducing exposure to preservatives and deposits that can irritate the delicate eyelid margin. Your optometrist can help find the right fit and material for your eyes.
You can also consider switching from your regular contact lens solution to a preservative-free hydrogen peroxide-based system like ClearCare®, which becomes sterile and safe for the eyes once it has fully neutralized.
Step Two: Focus on Eyelid Health
Once the irritants are gone, it’s time to support the health of your eyelid and lash follicles.
What I recommend to my patients:
Warm compresses – Use a clean, warm compress (like a Bruder mask) for 3–5 minutes twice daily. This improves circulation and helps unclog oil glands.
Lid hygiene – Cleanse the lash line daily using I-Lid ‘N Lash® wipes, Blephaclean®, or a similar preservative-free lid wipe. These remove bacteria, debris, and allergens without causing irritation.
Track progress – Take a close-up photo with your cell phone every two weeks to monitor changes. Lash regrowth takes time—up to 8 weeks in many cases.
Step Three: Ask About Lash Regrowth Treatments
If the lashes aren’t improving—or if you’re looking for faster results—there are medical treatments your optometrist can prescribe.
Topical prostaglandin analogs, such as Latisse® (bimatoprost), are sometimes recommended to stimulate lash growth. These drops work by extending the growth phase of the lash cycle and increasing thickness over time. Like any treatment, they’re not for everyone and need to be monitored for side effects—but for many people, they can make a real difference.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If you've taken the right steps for 2–3 months and your lashes still aren't improving, it’s time for a deeper look.
At your exam, I’ll check for signs of inflammation, infection, or underlying disease. In some cases, I may refer you to a dermatologist, oculoplastic surgeon, or family doctor for further investigation.
The key is this: don’t wait it out hoping it’ll fix itself. Lash loss is often your body’s way of flagging something else.
Final Thought
Eyelash loss can feel frustrating—but with the right approach, it’s often reversible. By identifying the cause, removing irritants, and supporting follicle health, most patients see regrowth within a few months.
If you’re in Edmonton and concerned about lash thinning or eye irritation, book an eye exam with me. Let’s get to the root cause—and get your lashes growing again.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this website, including blog posts authored by Dr. Ross McKenzie, is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with a licensed optometrist or healthcare provider. No doctor-patient relationship is established through the use of this website or its content. The information shared is not intended to endorse or recommend any specific medical treatments or guarantee outcomes. Users are encouraged to consult their own healthcare providers regarding any health concerns. The team at drrossmckenzie.ca does not assume liability for any decisions made based on the information provided. Use of this website is at your own risk.
Hey there, I’m
Dr. Ross McKenzie
I’m an Edmonton-based optometrist who believes clear vision is about more than just eyesight — it’s about seeing your life, your work, and your health with clarity.
I love smart tech, sharp lenses, and helping people show up fully in every part of their day — whether that’s behind a desk, behind the wheel, or on a ski hill.
My Mission? To bring real, honest eye care to real people — with a side of science, strategy, and style.
