In this sense, its a compulsion.
Pulling out the eyelashes can also lead to irritation and infection, so getting help is important.
This article will review the symptoms of pulling out eyelashes and the causes and treatment options.
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A healthcare provider may also make this observation during an exam.
You may have an uncontrollable urge to pull out your eyelashes or do it without thinking about it.
You may feel a sense of relief after pulling the eyelashes out.
Or, you may have increased tension when trying to avoid pulling out the hair.
Attempts to hide the lack of eyelashes might also be made, like wearing false eyelashes.
Why People May Pull Out Eyelashes
Trichotillomania is a common cause of pulling out eyelashes.
Pulling out hair or eyelashes can also be brought on by severe stress or anxiety.
Medical Reasons for Missing Eyelashes
Eyelash hairs may be missing due to a medical cause.
Certain disorders can cause hair to fall out.
Chemotherapy treatments for cancer can also cause eyelash loss.
This evaluation will determine the underlying cause.
If trichotillomania is the cause, behavioral therapy is often effective.
SSRIs can take up to six weeks at a therapeutic dose to become effective.
If the medication does not help at all, it should be discontinued.
SSRI medications used can include:
Other medications that might be used include:
What Is Latisse?
Latisse(bimatoprost) is a prescription medication used to treat people with no or few eyelashes.
Complications Associated With Pulling Out Eyelashes
Eyelashes protect the eyes from dust, dirt, and sun.
Without that natural protection, the eyes are more vulnerable to elements or debris.
You may feel self-conscious about how your eyes look and worry about eyelashes growing back.
They can refer you to a mental health provider who specializes in OCD spectrum disorders or anxiety disorders.
Without treatment, the behavior is likely to continue.
Summary
Pulling out eyelashes can signal an underlying anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
It can cause eye problems or complications.
Pulling out eyelashes can be a symptom of trichotillomania but can also be brought on by stress.
Without treatment, the behavior will likely continue.
However, it is treatable with behavioral therapies and medication may be prescribed.
Mental Health America.Trichotillomania (hair pulling).
Anxiety Institute.Compulsive hair pulling (trichotillomania).
2017;16(4):537541. doi:10.1111/jocd.12308
Anxiety & Depression Association of America.Trichotillomania - facts and treatment.
Venneugues RV, Macbeth A, Level NJ.Dramatic and persistent loss of eyelashes.JRSM Open.
2019;14(1):e0208118.
