Beautiful, healthy eyelashes and eyebrows frame our eyes, enhancing our natural beauty and adding depth to our expressions. But have you ever wondered about the science behind their growth? The secret lies in the intricate and fascinating growth cycles of these tiny but vital facial features. In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the mysteries of the eyelash and eyebrow growth cycle, from the initial stages of growth to the factors influencing their lushness and length.
The Eyelash Growth Cycle
Eyelashes, like all hair on our bodies, follow a cyclical pattern of growth, rest, and shedding. Understanding this cycle is essential for maintaining healthy and vibrant lashes.

- Anagen Phase (Growth): This is the active phase of eyelash growth. It lasts approximately 30 to 45 days, during which each lash follicle produces a single lash. The length of your lashes largely depends on the duration of this phase, which is genetically determined.
- Catagen Phase (Transitional): The catagen phase is a transitional period that lasts about two to three weeks. During this phase, the lash stops growing, and the hair follicle begins to shrink.
- Telogen Phase (Resting and Shedding): The telogen phase is the resting phase and lasts roughly 100 days. It’s during this phase that the lash is fully grown but not actively growing. Eventually, the lash will shed naturally to make way for a new one.
Factors Influencing Eyelash Growth
Several factors influence the growth of your eyelashes:
- Genetics: The length and thickness of your lashes are largely determined by your genetics. If your family members have long lashes, you’re more likely to have them as well.
- Hormones: Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can affect eyelash growth. Changes in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy or menopause, may impact lash length and thickness.
- Aging: As we age, the growth cycle of our lashes may slow down, leading to shorter and sparser lashes.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as alopecia and trichotillomania, can affect lash growth. Treatment of the underlying condition may help improve lash health.

Eyebrow Growth Cycle
Eyebrows, like eyelashes, also follow a growth cycle, but with some differences:
- Anagen Phase (Growth): The active growth phase of eyebrow hair lasts between four to six weeks. During this time, the hair follicles produce new eyebrow hairs.
- Catagen Phase (Transitional): The catagen phase is a short transitional phase lasting a few weeks, during which the hair follicles shrink.
- Telogen Phase (Resting and Shedding): The telogen phase lasts several months, during which the eyebrow hair rests. Eventually, old hairs will shed to make way for new ones.
Factors Influencing Eyebrow Growth
Eyebrow growth is influenced by similar factors to eyelashes:
- Genetics: Your genetic makeup plays a significant role in determining the shape and thickness of your eyebrows.
- Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty or pregnancy, can impact eyebrow growth.
- Aging: Just like with eyelashes, eyebrow growth may slow down with age, resulting in thinner brows.
- Over-Plucking: Excessive plucking, waxing, or threading can damage the hair follicles, leading to sparse eyebrows. It’s crucial to avoid over-tweezing to maintain healthy brows.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions or treatments, such as chemotherapy, can affect eyebrow growth. Consulting a healthcare professional may be necessary in such cases.
Tips for Enhancing Eyelash and Eyebrow Growth

While genetics play a significant role in eyelash and eyebrow growth, there are steps you can take to promote healthy and lush lashes and brows:
- Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly biotin and folic acid, can support hair growth. Consider adding foods like eggs, nuts, and leafy greens to your diet.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential for hair health, so make sure to drink enough water daily.
- Gentle Care: Be gentle when removing makeup or cleansing your lashes and brows. Vigorous rubbing can damage hair follicles.
- Avoid Over-Tweezing: Resist the temptation to over-pluck your eyebrows. Let them grow naturally, and only tweeze stray hairs.
- Use Lash and Brow Serums: Lash and brow serums containing growth-enhancing ingredients like peptides and biotin can stimulate hair follicles.
- Consult a Professional: If you’re concerned about thinning lashes or brows, consider consulting a dermatologist or an esthetician for guidance and potential treatments.
Understanding the eyelash and eyebrow growth cycle is the first step toward achieving and maintaining lush, healthy lashes and brows. While genetics play a significant role, proper care, nutrition, and attention to overall health can all contribute to the fullness and vibrancy of these essential facial features.