Pulled-out Eyelashes

Green eye and dark eyelashes
Photo: Depositphotos
Q: I was wondering if you accidentally waxed your eyelashes off, will they grow back? And if so, how long does it take?
 
A: Yes, in almost all cases, your eyelashes will grow back completely. Whether they return to their original fullness depends entirely on the health of the hair follicles in your eyelids.
 
Waxing pulls the hair out from the root, which naturally prompts the body to start growing a replacement. Permanent loss only happens in rare instances where the follicle suffers severe, permanent trauma or scarring - such as a deep thermal burn from overheated wax or a severe infection following the accident. If the skin is just temporarily irritated or inflamed, the follicles will heal and resume normal lash production.
 
Because a forced plucking resets the hair follicle, new lashes will typically begin to sprout and become visible within 2 to 4 weeks. However, individual eyelashes grow at an average rate of about 0.15 mm per day, meaning it will take roughly 4 to 8 weeks for a new lash to reach its full length.
 
It is important to remember that eyelashes naturally grow in staggered cycles rather than all at once. Individual follicles go through active growth, resting, and shedding phases. Because an accidental waxing removes many lashes simultaneously, they will grow back in slightly uneven patches at first as each follicle moves at its own biological pace. Consequently, while you will see new growth within a month, it generally takes 3 to 4 months for your entire lash line to return to its previous uniform density and fullness.
 
While your eyelashes are recovering, it is vital to protect the delicate eyelid skin, which is the thinnest on your body. Avoid rubbing your eyes, using mechanical eyelash curlers, or applying false lashes and lash extensions, as the weight and adhesives can pull out the fragile new growth.
 
If you experience severe pain, persistent redness, swelling, blistering from hot wax, or any signs of infection (like pus or crusting), you should consult a doctor immediately.
 
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See also:
 
Prosthetic and false eyelashes
 
Eyelash and eyebrow tinting