Eyelash loss, or thinning eyelashes, is a fairly common problem that can be caused by a number of things. For that reason, the first step to preventing eyelash loss is to determine why you are losing eyelashes in the first place. Begin by considering any recent changes to diet or skincare products used.
If you've recently switched to a new cosmetic product for the eyes, such as mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow, it is possible that you are having an allergic reaction, and that is causing the eyelash loss. New facial products can also cause an allergic reaction, such as a new eye cream or face powder. If you've recently switched, stop using the product and see if the eyelashes stop falling out.
Diet can be another cause of eyelash loss. Nutritional deficiency can quickly lead to hair loss, as well as eating an extremely calorie-restricted diet. It is important to get enough calories and protein in the diet, and to lose weight slowly to avoid adverse affects such as these.
If none of these are the cause, it is a good idea to visit a physician who can rule out other underlying medical causes for hair loss; these include thyroid issues, autoimmune diseases, or hormonal imbalances, among others. Treating an underlying medical cause should help the eyelash loss issue to resolve itself. A dermatologist may be able to prescribe a drug to encourage the regrowth of eyelashes, but these often have unpleasant side effects as well, so be sure to research it thoroughly.
If none of these issues seem to be the problem, and eyelash loss continues, it may simply be your behavior. If you frequently wear waterproof mascara and are forced to scrub at the eyes to remove it, this can cause eyelashes to fall out. Additionally, using an eyelash curler can also pull out the eyelashes. Instead, use a gentle makeup remover that does not require scrubbing to remove long-wearing mascara, and avoid the use of an eyelash curler every day.
Once eyelash loss has been stopped, eyelashes should grow back within a few months. In that time, eyeliner and eyeshadow may be used to make the loss less noticeable, and false eyelashes may be applied if necessary. It is important to apply fake eyelashes carefully to make them look more natural. In addition, be sure you are not allergic to the glue used in false eyelashes, which can exacerbate the eyelash problem you already have.
