Amazing facts about eyelashes and eyelids
Eyelids and eyelashes are the parts of eyes which are always get noticed because of their appearance. Let us explore some amazing facts about eyelashes and eyelids.
Facts about eyelashes
Eyelashes grow at a surprisingly fast rate. On average, they grow at about 0.12 millimeters per day. A complete growth cycle, from birth to fall, can take several months.
Safety for eyes
When something comes too close, the blink reflex is triggered, helping keep your eyes safe and clean.
Size of eyelashes
Eyelash length differs from person to person. They can range from 6mm to 12mm on the upper eyelid and 5mm to 8mm on the lower eyelid.
Number of eyelashes
The upper eyelid typically hosts between 100 to 150 eyelashes, while the lower eyelid usually has fewer, about 75 to 100 lashes
Sensory organ
Eyelashes are incredibly sensitive and function as sensory organs. They can detect even the slightest touch, helping you close your eyes quickly in response to a potential threat.
Longest eyelashes in the world
Guinness World Records holds the record for the longest eyelashes, measuring an astonishing 12.4 centimeters (4.88 inches). The eyelashes belonged to a woman named You Jianxia from China.
Normal cycle
Just like hair on the scalp, eyelashes have a finite lifespan. They typically last between 100 to 150 days before falling out and being replaced by new ones.
Insects also have lashes
Humans aren’t the only creatures with eyelashes. Many mammals, including some species of primates, cats, and camels, also have eyelashes. Surprisingly, some insects, such as butterflies, possess tiny hair-like structures that function similarly to eyelashes, protecting their compound eyes
Habitat of mites
Demodex folliculorum, a type of microscopic mite, can live on your eyelashes. While they are generally harmless and invisible to the naked eye, they feed on the oils produced by the glands around your eyelash follicles
Shapes
Just as with hair, eyelashes have different shapes. They can be straight, curly, or wavy, adding to the diversity and uniqueness of individual appearances.
Mascara history
The use of mascara dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was made from various ingredients, including soot and crocodile dung. Modern mascara formulations have come a long way since then.
Protection from irritation
The curved shape of eyelashes isn’t just for aesthetics. It serves a purpose by helping divert airflow away from the eyes, reducing the risk of particles and wind causing eye irritation.
Reduction in number with aging
As we age, the hair follicles that produce our lashes can become less active. This can lead to a reduction in the number of lashes and cause them to become shorter and thinner.
Discoloration
Just as the hair on our heads can turn gray with age, lashes can also lose their pigment and become gray or white. This can make them less noticeable in older age.
Loss of natural curl with age
The natural curl of eyelashes may diminish with age. This can result in lashes that appear straighter and less prominent.
Folding
Sagging or wrinkling of the eyelid skin can create folds that partially obscure the lashes. The eyelashes turning towards the eyes is known as Entropion.
Facts about eyelids
The thinnest skin on our body comprises our eyelids.
Wipers of the eye
They work together to protect and lubricate the eyes. The seemingly simple eyelids are actually a complex structure, consisting of skin, muscles, and specialized oil glands (meibomian glands). Our eyelash follicles are attached to glands known as Glands of Zeis and Moll.
Blinking
Blinking isn’t just a random reflex; it’s a vital function that keeps our eyes moist and free from dust and debris. On average, humans blink about 15 to 20 times per minute.
Tear film spreading
The lower eyelids feature tiny drainage holes known as puncta that lead to the nasal cavity. This drainage system helps remove excess tears and maintain the appropriate tear film volume.
Good night sleep
Without your eyelids, getting a good night’s rest would be difficult. They play a pivotal role in regulating light and maintaining a comfortable sleeping environment.
Loss of eyelid
If a person gets a cut or lesion on his eyelid or loses his eyelid in an accident then it can cause severe irritation in his eyes due to constant exposure to the environment. The eye without eyelid can become severely dry and itchy as well.
Extra elevation of eyelids
Muller muscle in the eyelid causes extra elevation of the eyes. When we stare at somebody, our eyelids elevate more than the average day elevation. This particular stare look is because Muller’s muscle provides an extra height of 2mm.
Hooded eyes
As we age, the skin of the eyelids can lose elasticity and develop wrinkles. This process is often referred to as “hooding”. This can affect both the upper and lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, is a common procedure to address these issues.
Wrinkling
The delicate skin of the eyelids is susceptible to developing wrinkles and fine lines as collagen and elastin production decreases with age.
The amazing facts about eyelashes and eyelids have shed light on the intricate mechanisms that help us see and express ourselves every day. There exists the fascinating world within these small yet indispensable components of your ocular journey.
Founder of EyesMatterMost- an optometry student who loves talking about eyes. I tend to cover topics related to optometry, ophthalmology, eye health, eyecare, eye cosmetics and everything in between. This website is a medium to educate my readers everything related to eyes.