We notice it on the pillow, in the shower drain, when we brush or sweep the floor and see the dustpan full of hair. Similarly, on the cotton pad when we remove eye makeup or when someone touches our face: "You've lost an eyelash, make a wish." "Telogen effluvium or seasonal shedding not only affects the hair on the head, but, although much less frequently, it can also cause the loss of eyebrows and eyelashes," explains Sebastian Podlipnik, a dermatologist at the Hospital Clínic in Barcelona.
This seasonal phenomenon can be worrisome, but it is a completely normal hair renewal process, reassuring us to avoid alarm. Although it is more common on the scalp, in more serious cases or if it lasts a long time, it can also affect those other areas.
"What happens is that the hair follicles enter the resting phase prematurely, the so-called telogen phase, causing the hair to fall out," explains Dr. Podlipnik, who provides the best advice if we notice significant hair loss, instead of ignoring it and carrying on as if nothing is wrong. "What you can do is go to the dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis of your condition and to recommend the appropriate treatment."
When should we pay attention? It is not usually as noticeable as hair loss because the hairs are short. "It is a sign of concern to notice, on one hand, areas where there are bald spots or total hair loss and, on the other hand, to observe a lower density. Faced with these symptoms, it is best to see a trichologist," recommends Natalia Jiménez, a specialist in clinical dermatology, aesthetics, and laser treatments at the Pedro Jaén Group.
Eyelashes and eyebrows have a growth cycle similar to the hair on the head and naturally fall out to make way for new lashes. But there are a series of daily habits that mistreat them. "Rubbing the eyes forcefully, not properly removing makeup, and using tools like eyelash curlers carelessly that can damage and weaken them," points out Aura Serras, director of RevitaLash Spain, a brand of conditioners that strengthen them.
Many times we use very resistant mascara or eyebrow products that leave residue and do not remove them properly. "Gently remove makeup using a specific eye product and avoid rubbing is essential." It is better to press the cotton, previously moistened, gently on the lashes, "and let the product dissolve the makeup before removing it, making gentle strokes from the root to the tips of the lashes," specifies the expert to prevent their fall.
With the change of season and the drop in temperatures, we may experience a weakening of the immune system and find it difficult to get back into the rhythm after the holidays, feeling overwhelmed and stressed. This situation is not conducive to situations of hair loss. As explained by Koro Cantabrana in her book Hidden Stress. The silent syndrome that threatens your life, published by the Stress Institute, which the journalist and coach directs, living in a constant sprint puts us on alert, as if a danger threatens us. "Despite the warnings, we continue on autopilot, while it generates physical and emotional sequelae and makes us its victims."
Emotional stress and anxiety, metabolic alterations, excess cosmetics, pollution, tobacco, and adverse environmental agents, among other causes, influence the life cycle of lashes and eyebrows, not only altering their protective function against sweat, solar radiation, bacteria, dust, and other external agents but also preventing us from enhancing the beauty of our eyes, which decisively influences the definition of our identity," indicate from Cantabria Labs, a Spanish laboratory that also has a booster, Iraltone 2 in 1.
The body warns us. The key is to be aware and get out of that situation. Trying to lead a calmer life, rest, and eat well. "A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, like the Mediterranean diet, can contribute to hair and eyelash health, making them stronger and more resistant," says Serras, who also provides a cosmetic care tip. "We can apply the Lash&Brow hydration mask once a week on lashes and eyebrows during this time."
"It is accentuated in autumn due to the accumulated damage during the summer, mainly from prolonged sun exposure, chlorine from pools, and sea salt. These factors weaken the hair follicle, leading to more pronounced shedding. However, this phenomenon offers an excellent opportunity to implement strengthening products that promote healthy growth, protecting the natural follicle cycle," points out Jaume Soley, president and R&D director of Gen Identity.
Nuria Aluart, beauty trend hunter and founder of the online cosmetics store mumona.com, adds: "It is the perfect time to nourish and regenerate eyebrows and eyelashes with specific products that help strengthen them from the root. Gentle cleansing and a consistent routine are key to avoiding fragility during the seasonal change." Regarding serums for treating eyebrows and eyelashes, Serras warns that many contain growth hormones that can be counterproductive when discontinued. We must ensure that the product is clinically proven and has demonstrated improvement in the appearance, thickness, and length of the lashes.
"If it contains patented ingredients backed by scientific studies. Revitalash Cosmetics, for example, is formulated by doctors and reviewed by both ophthalmologists and dermatologists." It is best to apply it once a day, morning or night, on clean and dry lashes, she advises. "Once applied, let it dry before applying any other product. A thin line at the base of the lashes without touching the eyelid skin is sufficient."
We must also consider that prolonged use of false eyelashes and adhesives can damage natural lashes. "It is advisable to take breaks from these treatments to allow natural lashes to recover," advocates Aura Serras. In many cases, lost lashes can grow back: the cause of the damage must be determined and the appropriate care regimen followed.
Furthermore, certain supplementation taken consistently for at least three months can help during this shedding period. Pharmacist Marta Masi recommends taking one Woman Capilar tablet a day, which combines some key proteins to prevent shedding, "such as hydrolyzed collagen, biotin, and vitamins and minerals like zinc and selenium."
HOW TO MAINTAIN GOOD EYELASH AND EYEBROW HEALTH
"Eyelashes frame the eye, just like eyebrows, and when we don't have hair on the eyelashes or it is blonde or very light, our expression can be lost a bit. Just like if the hair is short or thin," says Marta Arce, makeup artist and artistic co-director of U/1ST, also supporting its importance in self-esteem. "Thick and long hair on our eyelashes will provide a healthy and lively look of our eyelashes to our eyes and their expression." Here are some tips from the specialists.
- Gently remove makeup every night.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients.
- Use a strengthening serum or supplementation if needed.
- Limit the use of false eyelashes or makeup with ingredients that can dry and damage them.