About eyelash growth
Can eyelash hypotrichosis be reversed?
Depending on the cause of your eyelash thinning, it can potentially be reversed without the need for medical treatments. For example, if caused by physical trauma or damage, it can heal by itself over time.
However, sometimes it cannot be naturally remedied. If genetics or ageing is the cause, for example, it is unlikely to be reversed without the use of medical treatment.
Can eyelash hypotrichosis happen at any age?
Yes, eyelash thinning can happen at any age, but it is more likely to happen in older people, for example, women going through menopause.
If caused by lifestyle factors, though, age rarely plays a factor.
What happens when I stop taking eyelash growth treatment?
When you stop taking prescription treatment to regrow eyelashes, they will gradually return to their original length and thickness. In other words, the results are not permanent.
The good news is, the treatment offered by HealthExpress is safe to take long-term, meaning you can keep taking it for as long as you want longer eyelashes.
About eyelash growth treatments
Is eyelash growth treatment prescribed off-label?
The most common eyelash growth treatment is prescribed mainly to treat glaucoma and high pressure in the eye. However, due to the impact it can have on eyelashes, it is prescribed off-label for eyelash hypotrichosis.
This means a doctor can prescribe it for this purpose, even though it wasn’t what it was originally intended for.
Does it cause any side effects?
Yes, the active ingredient can cause side effects, although not everyone will get them. The most common ones are itchy, dry or irritated eyes, redness, and skin darkening (hyperpigmentation). Most of these are mild, but if you experience any that are severe or don’t go away, consult your doctor.
For a full list of side effects, see the patient information leaflet
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make?
Adopting a gentle skincare routine can help with eyelash health.
Be gentle when removing eye makeup to avoid unnecessary pulling or friction, which can cause eyelashes to break or fall out. Also, make sure your face is clean and makeup-free before applying medical treatments to help them work as intended.
Managing symptoms
Are there any risks associated with eyelash thinning?
Eyelash thinning is mostly a cosmetic issue, however, eyelashes serve the important function of protecting the eyes from dust, debris, and sweat.
Therefore, having thin or few lashes can leave your eyes slightly more susceptible to minor irritation from particles like these. By using medical treatment, you can strengthen your eyes’ protection and prevent discomfort.
Can it cause dry eyes?
Yes, dry eyes is a known side effect of eyelash growth treatment, but it is uncommon.
If you experience dry eyes after using your treatment, you can apply some lubricating eye drops, but you must wait at least 5 minutes after applying your eyelash growth treatment.
What if eyelash growth treatment causes eye irritation?
Mild redness or irritation is a common side effect of eyelash growth treatment, and rarely a cause for concern if it goes away on its own.
However, if the irritation is severe or accompanied with a skin rash or trouble breathing, it may be an allergic reaction. If you think you are having an allergic reaction to eyelash growth treatment, seek immediate medical help.
