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How Eyelashes and Eyebrows Protect Your Eyes

closeup of woman's eyes, eyebrows and eyelashes

Before you reach for the tweezers or mascara, think about the function your eyebrows and eyelashes serve. Believe it or not, these seemingly random hairs on your face play a vital role in protecting your eyes. Here’s how.


The Importance of Eyelashes

Eyelashes are your eyes’ first line of defence, preventing airborne particles like dust, dirt and pollen from entering your eyes. They do their best work at night when your eyes are closed, forming an impenetrable shield that keeps out foreign contaminants. Your eyelashes are highly sensitive, triggering a blink reflex at the slightest touch. Blinking is an essential process your eyes use to remove particles and prevent contaminants from entering the sockets.

The Importance of Eyebrows

Eyebrows play a similar function to eyelashes, but they do it differently. Eyebrows are situated on the brow bone, well above the delicate tissues surrounding the eye. However, they play an essential protection role by diverting liquids away from your eyes. For instance, if you’re sweating on a hot summer day, your eyebrows will divert that perspiration away from your eyes, so more sweat runs down the side of your face. The same goes for rain. This function enables you to see clearly in various conditions.

Caring for Your Eyelashes and Eyebrows

You wear protective safety glasses at work and UV-shielding sunglasses on a sunny day to protect your vision. Similarly, you should take care of your eyelashes and eyebrows. Unfortunately, too many people compromise these eye-protecting hairs in the name of vanity. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy eyelashes, eyebrows and eyes.

  • Avoid wearing false eyelashes, as the glue needed to attach them can irritate your eyes. Prolonged use of false eyelashes can also cause you to lose some of your natural lashes. They can also prevent your natural eyelashes from doing their job, funnel more contaminants towards your eyes, and increase your risk of dry eye and infection.

  • Using mascara on your eyelashes increases your risk of allergic reactions and infections, so use it sparingly.

  • When you pluck your eyebrows, they won’t be able to function to their maximum potential, thereby exposing your eyes to more potential irritants. So, go easy on the tweezers.

You can get more advice on safeguarding your eye health by visiting an optometry clinic. Even if you don’t have trouble seeing, an exam can spot potential risks, and an eye doctor can give you advice specific to your eyes.

Visit An Optometrist in Edmonton

At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., protecting the health of your eyes is our primary concern. Whether you’re having vision difficulties or just want to ensure your eyes are in top form, visit one of our convenient locations in Edmonton, Westlock or Leduc. Contact us today to schedule a general eye exam.

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