Quck answer

Eyelashes naturally have a growth cycle, just like hair. They go through three phases: the anagen phase (active growth), the catagen phase (transition phase), and the telogen phase (resting phase). During the telogen phase, the eyelash falls out naturally to make room for a new one to grow. Because of this cycle, there is no need to trim your eyelashes. Trimming them can actually disrupt the natural growth process and potentially damage the lashes. However, some people choose to curl their lashes or use mascara to enhance their appearance.

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As humans, we have certain things we need to take care of regularly. One of these things is dealing with our body hair. While the amount of hair varies from person to person, we all have it!

Our bodies are covered in hair, from our heads to our arms, legs, and everywhere else. Hair even exists on our tongues, noses, and ears. However, we rarely think about some of these hairs.

You probably spend time every day tending to the hair on your head. You wash it, condition it, brush it, and style it. And when it gets too long, you cut it.

But what about the other hair on your face? For instance, we all have eyebrows and eyelashes. Do you ever think about them? Have you ever wondered about your eyelashes? What would happen if they grew like the hair on your head?

Imagine having to wash, condition, and style your eyelashes every day if they grew too long. Would you be able to see properly?

Although we don’t usually pay much attention to our eyelashes, they do indeed grow. They serve the purpose of protecting your eyes by keeping dust and other particles away. When your eyelashes detect foreign matter that could harm your eyes, they trigger a reflex that makes you blink and close your eyes. This reflex helps keep your eyes safe.

Because of the important role they play, it’s a good thing that your eyelashes grow and replace themselves. Like the hair on your body, eyelashes go through a cycle of growth and rest, continuously repeating as old hairs are shed and new ones grow. However, compared to the hair on your head, the growth phase of eyelashes is very short, lasting only about 30-45 days.

Furthermore, the resting (dormant) phase is much longer for eyelashes. While the hair on your head rests for a period of time before falling out and being replaced, eyelashes rest for a much longer duration and are not immediately replaced when they fall out.

This is why it may seem like your eyelashes are not growing at all. When they do grow, they only do so for a short period of time before entering a longer resting phase. This makes them appear as if they are not growing at all, especially when compared to the hair on your head!

Give it a try

Find an adult who can assist you in further exploring the activities below!

Exploring Eyelashes

After learning about your own eyelashes, have you ever wondered about animal eyelashes? Consider if any animals possess eyelashes. Explore the eyelash viper and determine if it possesses genuine eyelashes. Additionally, discover other intriguing facts about this fascinating creature. Share your newfound knowledge with a friend or family member.

Now, let’s delve into the idea of trimming your own eyelashes. Have you ever pondered this? If not, take a moment to daydream and imagine a life where your eyelashes grew like the hair on your head. Would you need to visit a barber for an eyelash trim, or could you do it at home? Would you style or curl them? Imagine how you would look if you parted them in the middle. Write a paragraph describing this hypothetical scenario of having to trim your eyelashes.

Some individuals believe in superstitions related to eyelashes. For example, if an eyelash falls out, they place it on the back of their hand, make a wish, and throw it over their shoulder. If the eyelash flies off their hand, their wish is said to come true. Others simply blow a loose eyelash off their finger for good luck. Are you familiar with any other superstitions? Do you personally believe in any? Discuss and compare different superstitions with your friends and family members for some enjoyable moments.

Wonder Sources

• http://www.ehow.com/facts_5899008_don_t-eyelashes-grow_.html (accessed 27 Feb. 2020)
• https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/65212/why-dont-eyelashes-and-eyebrows-grow-long-head-hair (accessed 27 Feb. 2020)

FAQ

1. Why don’t you have to trim your eyelashes?

You don’t have to trim your eyelashes because they naturally have a specific growth cycle. Eyelashes, like all hair on our bodies, go through a growth phase, a resting phase, and a shedding phase. The growth phase, known as the anagen phase, lasts for about 30 to 45 days for eyelashes. After this period, the lashes enter the telogen phase, where they rest for a couple of weeks. Eventually, they fall out and are replaced by new lashes. This cycle ensures that our eyelashes maintain a consistent length without the need for trimming.

2. Do eyelashes ever stop growing?

Yes, eyelashes can stop growing due to various factors. Just like the hair on our heads, eyelashes have a growth limit determined by genetics and hormones. As we age, the growth rate of eyelashes may slow down, and they may become thinner and shorter. Additionally, certain medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors can affect eyelash growth. However, in most cases, if the hair follicles are healthy, the eyelashes will continue to grow and follow their natural growth cycle.

3. Can you trim your eyelashes if they become too long?

It is generally not recommended to trim your eyelashes if they become too long. Eyelashes serve important functions like protecting the eyes from dust, debris, and sweat. Trimming them may disrupt their natural structure and compromise their ability to shield the eyes effectively. Moreover, cutting the lashes can lead to an uneven appearance, as the regrowth may not be uniform. If you feel your eyelashes are excessively long, using an eyelash curler or mascara can help enhance their appearance without the need for trimming.

4. Are there any risks associated with trimming eyelashes?

Trimming your eyelashes can pose certain risks if not done properly. It is important to exercise caution and use the right tools, such as small, sharp scissors specifically designed for trimming lashes. Using regular scissors or cutting too close to the lash line can result in accidental cuts or damage to the eyelid or eye. Additionally, trimming the lashes too short or unevenly can affect their natural growth cycle and lead to an unbalanced look. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with trimming your eyelashes, it is best to consult a professional beautician or opt for alternative methods to manage their length.