Eyebrow Issues: Growth, Natural Remedies, and Hygiene Concerns - Ophthalmology

Share to:

Eyebrow Issues


Will eyebrows grow back if they fall out? What is the typical growth cycle for eyebrows in most people? Are there any natural growth stimulants for eyelashes? If I accidentally touch my face with bacteria on my hands, will it spread everywhere? When I pull on my eyebrows, can the bacteria from my dirty hands transfer to my eyelashes and cause them to fall out? Please help! 🙏🥺

Chen Pinzhen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/14

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello: The growth cycle of eyebrows typically ranges from several months to a year, varying from person to person.
When eyebrows fall out, they usually regrow within a few months, but some individuals may require a longer time.
Currently, there are many natural products and foods on the market that claim to enhance eyelash and eyebrow growth, such as proteins, vitamin E, grape seed extract, and olive oil.
However, the efficacy of these products and foods has not been scientifically proven, and individual responses to them can vary.
If you are interested in using these products, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or a professional cosmetologist for guidance.
Regarding the impact of hand bacteria on eyebrows and eyelashes, it generally does not lead to hair loss.
However, if there is an infection or disease present on your hands or around your eyes, it may negatively affect your eyebrows and eyelashes.
Therefore, it is recommended to maintain cleanliness of your hands and eyes, and to avoid frequently touching your face and eyes to reduce the risk of infection.

Reply Date: 2023/03/14

More Info


When it comes to eyebrow health and growth, there are several factors to consider, including the natural growth cycle of hair, hygiene practices, and potential remedies for promoting growth. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Will eyebrows grow back if they fall out?
Yes, eyebrows can grow back after they fall out, provided that the hair follicles are still healthy and intact. The hair growth cycle for eyebrows typically includes three phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase). The anagen phase for eyebrow hair can last anywhere from 30 to 45 days, which is shorter than the growth cycle for scalp hair. If you experience significant hair loss, it may take several weeks to months for your eyebrows to fully regrow, depending on the underlying cause of the loss.

2. What is the average growth time for eyebrows?
As mentioned, the growth cycle for eyebrow hair is relatively short. Generally, eyebrows can grow about 0.14 mm per day, which translates to approximately 1.5 cm in a year. However, individual growth rates can vary based on genetics, age, hormonal changes, and overall health. Factors like nutrition and stress can also impact hair growth.

3. Are there natural remedies to promote eyebrow growth?
Several natural remedies may help promote eyebrow growth, although results can vary from person to person. Some popular options include:
- Castor Oil: Rich in ricinoleic acid, castor oil is often touted for its potential to enhance hair growth. Applying it to your eyebrows with a clean brush or cotton swab may help nourish the hair follicles.

- Coconut Oil: Known for its moisturizing properties, coconut oil can help condition the hair and may promote growth.

- Olive Oil: Packed with antioxidants, olive oil can also nourish hair follicles and promote healthier hair growth.

- Aloe Vera: This plant is known for its soothing properties and may help stimulate hair growth when applied to the eyebrows.

- Biotin Supplements: While not a topical remedy, biotin is a B vitamin that supports hair health. Taking biotin supplements may help improve hair growth, including eyebrows.

4. Can touching your face transfer bacteria and cause issues?
Yes, touching your face can transfer bacteria from your hands to your skin, including the area around your eyebrows. This can potentially lead to skin irritations, infections, or acne. It’s essential to maintain good hygiene by washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching your face unnecessarily.

5. Does grabbing or pulling at your eyebrows with dirty hands cause hair loss?
Yes, if you pull or tug at your eyebrows with unclean hands, you can introduce bacteria and dirt to the hair follicles, which may lead to infections or inflammation. Additionally, excessive pulling can damage the hair follicles, potentially leading to hair loss. It’s crucial to avoid such habits and to treat your eyebrows gently.

In conclusion, maintaining healthy eyebrows involves a combination of proper hygiene, understanding the natural growth cycle, and potentially using natural remedies to promote growth. If you notice significant or persistent hair loss, it may be wise to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions. Regularly caring for your eyebrows and being mindful of hygiene can help you achieve the best results for eyebrow health.

Similar Q&A

Persistent Pimple Between Eyebrows: Causes and Treatment Options

Hello doctor, I have a pimple-like growth on my eyebrow that has been present for over two months. When I squeeze it, it produces pus and has a foul odor. It measures about 0.1 to 0.2 centimeters in size. I have been using over-the-counter Polysporin (I'm in North America), ...


Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
No lesions were observed, and it is difficult to determine the issue. If you are very concerned, please seek medical attention promptly.

[Read More] Persistent Pimple Between Eyebrows: Causes and Treatment Options


How to Deal with Unwanted Hair Growth Between Your Eyebrows

If you have recently noticed hair growth between your eyebrows, similar to a unibrow, there are several options you can consider. You can choose to trim, pluck, or wax the hair to achieve your desired appearance. If you're looking for a more permanent solution, you might con...


Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
To determine if laser hair removal is effective, the hair should be dark and coarse; otherwise, the results may not be satisfactory.

[Read More] How to Deal with Unwanted Hair Growth Between Your Eyebrows


Thinning Eyebrows: Remedies and Eyebrow Transplant Costs Explained

Hello, doctor! I have sparse eyebrows, and I've heard that applying ginger or alcohol can promote hair growth. Is this effective? Also, could you please tell me the approximate cost of eyebrow transplantation and how long the results typically last?


Dr. Chen Yiying reply Dermatology
Hello: In response to your question, there is no medical evidence supporting the use of ginger or alcohol to promote hair growth; in fact, they may cause contact dermatitis due to irritation, so their use is not recommended. Eyebrow transplantation is a permanent procedure, and t...

[Read More] Thinning Eyebrows: Remedies and Eyebrow Transplant Costs Explained


Understanding Eyebrow Hair Loss: Causes, Solutions, and When to See a Doctor

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have noticed that my eyebrows have been falling out in large amounts, specifically the outer half. It looks quite striking, and it has naturally affected my self-confidence. Currently, I am using an eyebrow pencil to fill in the outer half to make it app...


Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
The causes of hair loss in the outer half of the eyebrows include alopecia areata, hypothyroidism, discoid lupus erythematosus, leprosy, among others. Please consult a dermatologist for an examination.

[Read More] Understanding Eyebrow Hair Loss: Causes, Solutions, and When to See a Doctor


Related FAQ

Eyebrows

(Dermatology)

Inward-Growing Eyelashes

(Ophthalmology)

Eyelashes

(Ophthalmology)

Trichiasis

(Ophthalmology)

Floaters And Related Issues

(Ophthalmology)

Eyelid Cyst

(Ophthalmology)

Pink Eye

(Ophthalmology)

Hair Growth Solution

(Dermatology)

Pupil Dilation

(Ophthalmology)

Dry Eye Syndrome

(Ophthalmology)