6 Common Mistakes That Cause Excessive Lash Loss

Just like the hair on your head, it’s completely normal to shed eyelashes. The problem arises when you start experiencing extreme lash loss, an issue caused by all sorts of factors. With expert insight, we’re laying out some of the most common causes of excess lash loss—including lifestyle factors and bad habits. We’re also sharing what normal versus abnormal lash loss looks like, and offering some advice on how to get your lashes back in good health. 

How Much Eyelash Loss Is Normal?

It’s perfectly normal to lose a few lashes every day. Just like the hair on your scalp, your eyelashes follow a natural growth cycle, which includes shedding. 

“On average, it’s typical to lose about one to five lashes per day, which adds up to approximately seven to 35 lashes per week,” says Mona Foad, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist. “This is part of the natural process that allows new lashes to grow in.” 

She adds that if you notice you’re losing more lashes than what’s typical for you, or if you see noticeable gaps or thinning across your lash line, it’s worth looking into further. 

Pooja Rambhia, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist, agrees. She says, “Other warning signs include finding more than five lashes on your pillowcase or when washing your face daily, having multiple lashes fall out with gentle touch or makeup application/removal, or seeing clumps of lashes fall out together rather than the normal single-lash shedding pattern.” 

Common Causes of Excessive Lash Loss

While some lash loss is normal, extreme cases warrant a closer examination into lifestyle habits and potential underlying causes. Here are some common causes of extreme lash loss. 

1. Aggressive Makeup Removal 

Lots of us are guilty of rubbing our eye area aggressively when washing off makeup at the end of the day. “This can traumatize the lash follicles and cause premature lash loss,” Dr. Rambhia says. “Instead, use a gentle, oil-based or micellar water-based eye makeup remover and let it sit on closed eyes for 30 to 60 seconds to dissolve the makeup.” Then use soft, downward strokes with a cotton pad versus rubbing bag and forth or pulling at the lashes.  

2. Poor Hygiene

Another common cause of eyelash loss is blepharitis, which is inflammation affecting the eyelid. “There are many different causes, including poor hygiene, Demodex mite overgrowth, and clogged oil glands,” notes Himani Goyal, MD, chief of ophthalmology at Bellevue Hospital and Clinical Assoc. 

Blepharitis typically accompanied by swelling, redness, and persistent crusties. Gentle cleansing and avoiding heavy products help, but if your eye area experiences these issues along with notable sensitivity and it’s hard to curb, it’s time to hit up your doc. 

3. Eyelash Extensions & Falsies 

Eyelash falsies and lash extensions can also cause excessive lash loss, particularly in cases where harsh adhesives are used or the lashes are very heavy. “If you’re using extensions, it’s important to take breaks to give your natural lashes time to recover,” says Dr. Foad. When using falsies, make sure to follow product label instructions for proper removal. 

4. Poor Eyelash Curler Use

Improper use of eyelash curlers is another major culprit of excessive lash loss. “Using a curler after applying mascara can cause lashes to stick to the curler and get pulled out,” Dr. Rahmbia says. “Similarly, old curlers with worn-out pads can crimp and break lashes. The solution is to only curl clean, mascara-free lashes, replace your curler pad every three months, and clean your curler regularly.” Also, avoid pulling or tugging with the curler; one gentle press at the base of the lashes is sufficient.

5. Hormonal Shifts 

Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid imbalances, can disrupt the natural growth cycle of eyelashes, Dr. Foad explains. These fluctuations can potentially cause hair follicles to enter the resting phase prematurely—a term referred to as telogen effluvium—slowing regrowth or causing lashes to shed more quickly. The solution here is to address the underlying hormonal imbalance (if it’s ongoing), or accept that it’s part of a natural cycle (in the case of pregnancy). 

6. Nutritional Deficiencies 

Diet can significantly impact lash health, as nutritional deficiencies may weaken hair follicles and lead to lash loss. A lack of essential nutrients such as biotin, iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins (like A, C, D, and E) can disrupt the hair growth cycle and impair lash regrowth. Keeping a more balanced, nutritional diet can help quite a bit. And don’t forget your daily multivitamin!