Why You Shouldn’t Be Picking at Your Lashes (No Matter How Tempting It Feels)

We've all been there: sitting on the couch, looking through our phones, and suddenly we find ourselves plucking at our lashes without thinking. Or perhaps you've got lash extensions and a couple of them are starting to look a little goofy, so you're inclined to remove them. Is it harmless? Wrong. Picking your lashes may seem curiously pleasurable in the time, but it is one of the worst habits you can have for your lashes' health.

Let's discuss why it's such a horrible yell, and what you can do instead. 

Your Lashes Aren’t Just for Looks

Sure, lashes draw attention to your eyes, but they also serve a purpose. They operate as microscopic guardians, preventing dust, debris, and other particles from entering your eyes. Pulling them out exposes your eyes, which can lead to discomfort and, in rare circumstances, infection. Not very glamorous. 

Picking = Damage

Pulling on your lashes does more than simply remove the hair; it may also harm the follicle from which it arises. Once the follicle has deteriorated, your lashes may come back thinner, weaker, or not at all.

That is why people who pluck at their lashes frequently see holes in the lash line or uneven development. Lash Extensions can exacerbate this problem since tugging can pull your natural lashes out along with the falsies. Consider taking up a plant by its roots: it doesn't simply snap; it also affects everything beneath. 

It Becomes a Habit

Another reason why selecting is a nightmare? It's addicting. Some individuals use it to relieve tension, while others do it because they are bored. Before you realise it, you're doing it unknowingly, and the harm accumulates. Your lashes do not receive a fair chance to renew, leaving you with uneven, thin lashes that take months to recover. 

The Knock-On Effect

In addition to the visible gaps and stubby lashes, there are numerous knock-on effects:

• Increased ocular sensitivity. Without eyelashes to cover them, wind, dust, and even mascara can irritate your eyes.
• Makeup challenges. Mascara does not sit properly if your lashes are damaged or absent.
• Extensions will not last. If you adore lash extensions, plucking is the quickest way to destroy your set - and your lash technician will notice. 

So, What Can You Do Instead?

Okay, we get - sometimes the impulse to select is difficult to resist. Here are a few swaps that will help:

• Do not pick; instead, brush. Keep a lash brush accessible. Brushing your lashes offers you the same 'tidy' feeling without causing any damage.
• Use a serum. Strengthening serums or a little castor oil at night can keep your lashes conditioned and less likely to feel brittle or irritating.
• Fidget alternatives. If you're selecting out of habit, do something different, like a stress ball, toying with a ring, or even tapping your nails.
• Professional removal. Do you have lash extensions that are not growing properly? Do not yank them out. Book an appointment with your lash technician for a safe removal or use a lash extension remover. 

Picking your lashes may appear innocuous, but it is an easy method to permanently damage them. Your natural lashes are fragile, and once injured, they take a long time to heal - if they ever come back correctly.

So the next time you find yourself yanking on a lash, realise that it isn't just one hair. It protects your eyes, shapes your lash line, and prepares you for future flutters. Do your lashes a favour: stop plucking them and give them the attention they deserve.

Because, let's be honest: nothing matches the feeling of batting a full, healthy set of lashes, which you won't get if you're constantly pulling them out.