Thin or Short Lashes
Why do I have thin lashes?
Thin or short eyelashes can have many causes:
Genetics: Some people naturally have shorter or finer lashes.
Aging: Lash growth slows with age, and hairs often become thinner and shorter.
Hormonal Shifts: Pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid issues can decrease lash growth.
Trauma & Habits: Frequent eye rubbing (often from eczema), aggressive makeup removal, or repeated use of false lashes can damage and shorten lashes over time.
Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger temporary hair and eyelash thinning.
Medications: Chemotherapy and some glaucoma eye drops can cause lash thinning or loss.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of key nutrients, including vitamin D, iron, zinc or biotin, can limit hair and lash growth.
How do I get thicker and longer lashes?
In 2009, Latisse (bimatoprost) was FDA-approved to grow longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes. It is prescription-only.
There is now an over-the-counter alternative ingredient, isopropyl cloprostenate, which works in a very similar way. I’ve seen excellent results in many people at a fraction of the cost of prescription treatment:
GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum contains isopropyl cloprostenate and is my family’s favorite. With consistent use, results are typically seen after 3–6 months. Once results are achieved, I often recommend reducing application to once or twice weekly to maintain results and reduce side effects.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: Isopropyl cloprostenate may cause eyelid skin darkening, redness, irritation, dry eyes, or eyelid inflammation. Rarely, it can dark the iris and permanently change eye color. Apply carefully to the lash line only, and stop use if irritation develops.
Additional tips for thin lashes:
Manage stress – Stress can lead to thinner hair. Deadlines at school or work, relationship problems, illness, or a loss can all trigger stress. This site has simple, helpful ideas for lowering stress.
Eat for better lashes – Diet can affect all aspects of health. Fast food and junk food lack most of the nutrients and building blocks for good hair growth, especially when combined with stress. Switching as many meals as possible to whole-food, plant-based options can help improve hair growth and skin health. Have your primary care doctor check your iron, vitamin D or zinc levels if you think you might be deficient.
What if my thin lashes aren’t getting better?
The steps above help most people’s lashes grow longer and thicker. If over-the-counter treatments don’t work, prescription treatments work better, but are pricy and not covered by insurance. If you need extra help, look for a board-certified dermatologist near you. If you are in or near Utah, see one of my excellent colleagues at the University of Utah or me virtually with Honeydew.
DISCLAIMER
The statements expressed and content of this website are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Readers should seek their own professional counsel for any medical condition or before starting or altering any treatment, exercise, or dietary plan. Please see our full disclaimer here.