How the Lash Growth Cycle Works
Understanding the Lash Growth Cycle: A Key to Longer, Healthier Lashes
Ever wondered why your lashes don’t all fall out at once—or why growth serums take weeks to show results? It all comes down to your lash growth cycle, a natural process that governs how and when your lashes grow, rest, and shed.
Let’s break down the three key phases of the lash cycle and what they mean for your lash health and beauty routine.
The 3 Phases of the Lash Growth Cycle
1. Anagen Phase (Growth Phase)
This is when your lashes are actively growing.
• Duration: 30 to 45 days
• What Happens: The hair follicle is deep in the skin and working hard to produce the lash shaft. Each lash grows about 0.12–0.14 mm per day.
• Why It Matters: Only about 40% of upper lashes and 15% of lower lashes are in the growth phase at any time. This is why consistent use of growth serums takes time to show results—they can only affect lashes in this stage.
Tip: Serums with peptides and biotin (a component of Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1) help prolong the anagen phase, giving lashes more time to grow longer and thicker.
2. Catagen Phase (Transition Phase)
This is a short but critical part of the cycle.
• Duration: 2 to 3 weeks
• What Happens: Growth stops. The hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the blood supply, preparing for the lash to rest.
• Why It Matters: If a lash is pulled out during this phase, it won't grow back until the full cycle restarts, which could take weeks.
Note: Lash lifts, extensions, or harsh makeup removal during this phase can cause premature fallout.
3. Telogen Phase (Resting/Shedding Phase)
Time to let go and start fresh.
• Duration: 3 to 4 months
• What Happens: The lash simply rests before it naturally falls out and the follicle resets.
• Why It Matters: This phase makes up the majority of your lash cycle—about 50% of lashes may be in this stage at any time.
Reminder: Shedding 1–5 lashes a day is perfectly normal!
So… How Long Is the Full Lash Cycle?
On average, a full lash cycle takes 4 to 11 months, depending on:
• Genetics
• Age
• Hormone levels
• Nutrition
• Eye hygiene
• Use of growth products or lash treatments
How Growth Serums Interact with the Cycle
Understanding the lash growth cycle helps explain why most serums promise results in 6 to 12 weeks. They can’t force new growth but may:
• Extend the anagen phase
• Improve follicle health
• Reduce breakage during catagen phase
• Condition lashes during telogen phase
Products with peptides (like Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 or Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17) are often gentler than hormone-based options and work with your body’s natural rhythm.
Lash Cycle FAQs
Q: Why are some lashes longer than others?
A: They’re in different stages of the cycle! Some are just beginning to grow (anagen), while others are preparing to shed (telogen).
Q: Can I speed up the lash cycle?
A: Not exactly—but a healthy routine can optimize the cycle. Think good nutrition, gentle cleansing, and consistent serum use.
Q: Is lash shedding seasonal?
A: Some people notice more shedding in spring or fall, possibly due to hormone shifts or environmental factors.
Final Thoughts: Work With Your Lash Cycle, Not Against It
Patience is key when it comes to lash growth. Whether you're trying a new serum or recovering from extensions, understanding your lash cycle will help you set realistic expectations and care for your lashes more effectively.
Your lashes are always in motion—growing, resting, and shedding.
Want to learn how peptides can enhance your natural lash growth? Read this post next.