Learn how you can use canola oil for eyelashes and what are its benefits by way of this article. Ditch chemical-filled lash restorers for this natural remedy!
Eyelashes
Eyelashes are the fine hairs that grow at the edge of the eyelids and are also popular by the name ‘lash line’. Humans have 90 to 160 eyelashes in the upper eyelid and 75 to 80 in the lower eyelid. They grow in clusters of 3-6 hairs. Each human eyelash lives for an average of 3-6 months, beginning with the hair follicle’s growth stage and ending with the natural detachment of the lash from the eyelid unless otherwise removed/disturbed. Ethnicity is a strong determinant of lash length and curvature. Eyelashes primarily function as the first line of defense, acting as a natural barrier to protect eyes from dust, debris, sunshine, and sweat.
Eyelashes are extremely sensitive, like the whiskers of a cat. They act as gatekeepers for the eyes; at the slightest stimulus, they trigger the blinking reflex and serve as a warning system when anything gets too close to the eyes.
Moreover, eyelashes have undeniable cosmetic appeal. Eyes are the window to the soul. The allure of framing them with thick, voluminous, and elongated eyelashes is an aesthetic mainstay that has withstood the test of changing beauty ideals.
Sparse Eyelashes
Inadequate, sparse, or eyelash hypotrichosis can be a genetically inherited trait. There may be underlying conditions, infections, or behaviors that reduce eyelash volume. The loss of eyelashes is medically known as madarosis. Identifying and addressing the cause is the key to replenishing eyelashes. Apart from restoring facial aesthetics, research suggests that thicker eyelashes may also reduce susceptibility to eye infections.
Causes for Sparse Eyelash
1. Aging
With age, there are hormonal imbalances and reduction in skin moisture, resulting in destructive changes to the length, thickness, and also the pigmentation of eyelashes.
2. Blepharitis
It is an inflammatory condition associated with clogged oil glands in the eyelash hair follicles. The eyelids swell and become red that irritates the skin and makes it flaky too. All these issues lead to lash loss.
4. Thyroid Hormones
Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause thinning of lashes if left unchecked. The same can happen due to pregnancy and the underlying fluctuating hormone levels.
5. Alopecia
It is an autoimmune condition that inhibits hair growth on the head, face, and body.
6. Chronic Inflammatory Conditions
Chronic inflammatory conditions where the body might attack its healthy tissues, e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, can reduce eyelash density.
7. Trichotillomania
A disorder where the patient feels the urge to pull out hair from the eyelids, scalp, or the body.
8. Mite Infestation
Infestation of the eyelids by the mite, Demodex, which lives in the lash hair follicle, or the parasitic crab louse that consequently irritates the lashes to the point of detachment.
9. Poor Habits
Improper removal of eye make-up that irritates and clogs the lash follicles. Using cosmetics and lash extensions with ingredients that trigger an allergic response or constantly rubbing the eyes can loosen the lashes.
10. Stye
Stye is a purulent (pus-producing) inflammation of the eyelash follicles. This condition can further lead to loss of lashes.
11. Drugs and Medications
Using certain drugs and medications like cocaine, chemotherapy drugs, propranolol, etc.
Canola Oil On Eyelashes
Canola oil is an affordable vegetable oil extracted from canola seed, which is a genetically modified variant of the rapeseed plant. Rapeseed oil was declared inedible due to high erucic acid levels that cause heart problems. Canadian scientists have tailored canola oil to have lower erucic acid, hence the name canola: “Canada Oil Low Acid.” Canola oil is rich in antioxidants, Vitamins E and K, and healthy fats.
Topical Application of Canola Oil May Restore Lashes
1. Prevents Damage
Canola oil neutralizes free radicals and reverses sun’s UV damage.
2. Prevents Loss
Vitamin E in canola oil strengthens the hair shaft and reduces vulnerability to lash loss by trauma.
3. Makes it Healthier
The oil reduces inflammation and additionally improves skin moisture in the eyelids.
4. Propagates Growth
It is antibacterial and promotes cell production at eyelash roots.
Applying Canola Oil on Eyelashes
You can apply Canola oil on the lash line and the lashes with a cotton bud or clean mascara wand. Apply every night before bed for best results.
Precautions:
Excess oil that enters the eye can cause irritation or blurred vision. Use water to flush out the excess oil. Check for allergies before using canola oil orally or topically.