Can I apply hair growth lotion?
I have been pulling out my eyebrows and eyelashes due to a bit of obsessive-compulsive disorder for about 6 to 10 years.
I have managed to control myself with the eyelashes, and some have grown back, but they are not as thick and seem to be more fragile and prone to falling out.
Is there any way to improve this? As for my eyebrows, I have been drawing them in for a while, but they seem to have a hard time growing back.
Could the eyebrow drawing be causing the hair follicles to die? I have read online that it's not advisable to use hair growth products; can I use them or not? Is there still hope for my eyebrows?
Piao Er, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/04
Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
You can apply it, but given your situation, the effectiveness may be limited.
If the pulling persists, you might want to consider seeing a psychiatrist.
Reply Date: 2021/06/04
More Info
When it comes to regrowing eyebrows and eyelashes, the use of hair growth serums can be a viable option, but there are several factors to consider, especially in your case where you have a history of pulling out your hair due to obsessive-compulsive tendencies.
Firstly, it's important to understand that hair growth serums, particularly those containing active ingredients like minoxidil, have been shown to promote hair growth in various areas of the body, including the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which can stimulate hair growth and prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle. However, the effectiveness of these serums can vary from person to person, and results may take time—often several months—to become noticeable.
In your situation, where you've been pulling out your eyelashes and eyebrows for 6-10 years, the hair follicles may have been damaged. If the follicles are still alive, there is a possibility for regrowth, but if they have been permanently damaged or if the hair growth cycle has been disrupted for too long, regrowth may be limited.
Regarding your concern about using hair growth serums on your eyebrows and eyelashes, it is generally advised to use products specifically formulated for those areas. The skin around the eyes is sensitive, and using a product not designed for that area could lead to irritation or other adverse effects. There are serums specifically designed for eyebrow and eyelash growth that are safer and more effective than general hair growth products.
As for the impact of drawing your eyebrows on their regrowth, it is unlikely that simply applying makeup would cause the hair follicles to die. However, if you are using products that are heavy or occlusive, they could potentially clog the follicles, which might hinder regrowth. It's essential to use gentle, non-comedogenic products and to ensure that you are not irritating the skin around your eyebrows.
In terms of dietary and lifestyle changes, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support hair health. Nutrients such as biotin, vitamins A, C, D, E, and minerals like zinc and iron are crucial for hair growth. Staying hydrated and managing stress through relaxation techniques can also be beneficial, as stress can exacerbate hair loss conditions.
If you are considering using a hair growth serum, it would be wise to consult with a dermatologist or a healthcare provider who specializes in hair restoration. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and may suggest treatments such as topical minoxidil, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, or other interventions that could help stimulate hair growth in your eyebrows and eyelashes.
In summary, while hair growth serums can potentially help with regrowing eyebrows and eyelashes, the success of these treatments can depend on the health of your hair follicles and the specific products used. Consulting with a professional can provide you with the best course of action tailored to your needs.
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