What Are Eyelashes For?

Eyelashes. Billions of people have them but what are they for and what are they made up of? Read on to learn more about the purpose of eyelashes and how they affect the health of your eyes.

What Are Eyelashes Anyway?

Eyelashes are hairs that grow along the edge of your eyelids. While much about the eyelash hair follicle remains unknown, scientists are beginning to learn more and more about them.

What do we know? Your upper eyelid has about 90-160 lashes that sit in five to six rows. Your lower lid has between 75-80 in three to four rows. Genetics determine the consistency and quantity of eyelashes.

The growth phase of eyelashes is about two months, with lashes falling out after 3-5 months.

What is the Purpose of Eyelashes?

There are a few theories out there as to why we have eye lashes in the first place. One theory suggests that they help to protect our eyes from dust and debris. Another theory posits that they help to keep our eyes moist by providing a barrier against evaporation. And yet another theory suggests that they may help to reduce glare from bright lights.

So, what is the real purpose of eye lashes? Well, it’s probably a combination of all these things. But one thing is for sure–they definitely serve a purpose! So next time you find yourself wondering why you have those pesky little hairs on your eyelids, just remember that they’re there for a reason.

Do Eyelashes Help You See?

While eyelashes may seem like a relatively unimportant part of your body, your lashes perform some pretty important functions such as aiding in your sense of sight. Eyelashes are sensitive and have built-in nerve plexus that will trigger the blinking reflex if incoming objects or particles come too close to the eye.

Eyelashes can also shield the eye from the glare of bright sunlight or other light sources that could impede vision or damage the sensitive skin of the eye. Thicker eyelashes block airflow moving over the eye, but they also limit access to light.

Eyelashes Serve as an Air Filter for the Eye

Humans aren’t the only lifeforms that have eyelashes. In fact, 22 other species of mammals have eyelashes. Studies have shown that eyelash length helps to reduce the impact of airborne particles and air distribution on the eye. Eyelash length helps to regulate the appropriate air flow over the eyeball, thus supporting proper moisture levels for optimal eye health.  (The optimum length of eyelashes is 1/3 the width of the eye.)

What Affects the Health of Eyelashes?

There are a few things that can affect the health of your eyelashes. One is how often you wear makeup. If you wear makeup regularly, it can build up on your lashes and cause them to become weak and brittle. Make sure to clean your lashes regularly with a gentle cleanser to remove any built-up makeup.

Another thing that can affect lash health is rubbing your eyes. This can cause your lashes to fall out or become damaged. Be careful not to rub your eyes too hard, and if you do, make sure to use a lubricating eye drop to help protect your lashes.

Also, certain medical conditions can also lead to lash loss or damage. If you have an autoimmune disease, thyroid disorder, or alopecia, you may be more likely to experience lash loss.

How Does Eyelash Health Affect Eye Health?

Your eyelashes are more than just decoration – they’re actually an important part of your eye health. That’s because they help protect your eyes from dust, dirt, and other foreign particles.

If your eyelashes are healthy, they’ll do a better job of keeping your eyes clean and clear. But if they’re damaged or unhealthy, they won’t be able to do their job as well. This can lead to several eye problems, including irritation, inflammation, and even infections.

See an eye doctor at Spindel Eye Associates in New Hampshire if you have any concerns about your eyelashes. If you notice any changes in your eyelashes, such as excessive shedding or thinning, make an appointment to see your eye doctor or ophthalmologist. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions with an eye exam and help you get on the road to healthy lashes!