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Is it OK to pull eyelashes?

Published in Eye Health 2 mins read

No, it is not okay to pull eyelashes.

Pulling out your eyelashes, whether from your upper or lower eyelid, poses several risks to your eye health and overall well-being.

Why You Shouldn't Pull Your Eyelashes

Here's why pulling your eyelashes is harmful:

  • Increased Risk of Eye Infections: Eyelashes serve as a protective barrier, preventing dust and other irritants from entering your eyes. Removing them compromises this protection, making you more susceptible to eye infections.
  • Potential for Injuries: Pulling eyelashes can injure the delicate skin around your eyelids. This damage can make it more difficult for eyelashes to grow back normally.
  • Discomfort: Pulling out eyelashes can cause pain and discomfort.


Risk Description
Eye Infections Removing eyelashes can expose your eyes to bacteria and other harmful substances.
Injuries The action of pulling can damage the sensitive skin on your eyelids.
Hindered Hair Regrowth The trauma caused by pulling can affect the hair follicles and impede or alter future eyelash growth.
Discomfort The immediate sensation of pulling out an eyelash is often painful.


What to Do Instead

If you find yourself frequently pulling your eyelashes, you may have a condition called trichotillomania, which is a hair-pulling disorder. It is important to seek help if you cannot stop pulling your eyelashes, such as:

  • Consulting a Doctor: A healthcare professional can diagnose the issue and recommend the best treatment options for you.
  • Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy can help identify and manage the triggers for hair-pulling.


In summary, pulling eyelashes is harmful and should be avoided. It poses risks such as eye infections, injuries to the eyelids, and potentially interferes with normal hair regrowth. If you are experiencing this urge, it's best to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

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