The Purpose of Your Eyebrows and Eyelashes

These types of facial hair aren’t just there for decoration.

Our eyebrows are two of the most emotive parts of our bodies, and our eyelashes can play a major role in beautifying our faces. But these aesthetic benefits are by no means their only functions. In fact, our eyebrows and eyelashes are essential parts of our eye health and, by extension, our overall health. Here’s why.

Eyebrows and Eyelashes Provide Protection
Your eyebrows and eyelashes are the first lines of defense for your eyes against foreign substances.

The thicker, more compact hairs of your eyebrows offer good protection against liquids like sweat and rain. This is due to their arched shape, which helps direct liquid away from your eyes and to the sides of your face instead. Eyebrows also diminish the amount of light that reaches your eyes, helping you see better in well-lit conditions.

As for your eyelashes, these thinner, more spaced out hairs are better suited against dust, dirt, and debris. When your eyes are closed, your top and bottom lashes join to create a nearly impenetrable shield against airborne irritants. Your eyelashes are also extremely sensitive, triggering your blinking reflex at the slightest touch. This ensures that your eyes can close as soon as a potentially harmful substance draws near.

Keeping Your Eyebrows and Eyelashes in Good Shape
You must take proper care of your eyebrows and eyelashes if they are to perform these basic functions properly.

Grooming one’s eyebrows is a popular cosmetic option, but removing too much hair can impede their ability to defend your eyes. It’s okay to pluck them in moderation, but overdoing it can pose a health risk as well as be downright painful. In most cases, it’s best to simply let your eyebrows grow and clean them everyday along with the rest of your face.

The same advice applies to your eyelashes. Cosmetic products – namely false lashes and mascara – should be used sparingly. These applications can be considerable sources of irritation and may increase your chances of experiencing an allergic reaction or contracting an infection. Be sure to properly remove these products after their use so your lashes can continue to do their job.

Maintaining your eyebrows and eyelashes is more than an aesthetic decision; it’s a health necessity that all of us should strive to implement into our daily routines. Our eye health is determined by many different factors, and Sterling Vision is ready to help you stay on top of all of them. To schedule an appointment with us, call 541-262-0597 or schedule online.