Crying is a natural emotional response — whether from sadness, happiness, or frustration. But recently, a strange beauty myth has been floating around: crying makes your eyelashes grow longer. Is there any truth to this? Or is it just another social media rumor?
Let’s explore the facts, science, and myths behind this claim.
What the Myth Says
Many people believe that frequent crying leads to longer, fuller eyelashes. This idea often comes from personal anecdotes, social media trends, or before-and-after pictures showing people with longer lashes after emotional periods.
But does science back this up?
The Biology of Eyelash Growth
To understand whether crying affects lash growth, we need to look at how eyelashes grow. Eyelashes go through three natural phases:
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Anagen (Growth Phase) – Lashes grow from the follicle.
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Catagen (Transition Phase) – Growth stops.
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Telogen (Resting Phase) – Lashes fall out and are replaced.
The length and health of your lashes depend on genetics, age, hormones, and lash care — not your tears.
What Happens When You Cry?
When you cry, your body produces tears through the lacrimal glands. These tears help lubricate and clean the eyes. Here’s what crying may do:
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Increase blood flow to the face and eye area
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Flush out irritants or debris from the eyes
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Cause temporary puffiness or redness
While crying may slightly moisturize your lash area, there’s no scientific evidence that tears stimulate lash growth.
Can Crying Indirectly Help Eyelashes?
Crying does cause certain hormonal shifts and increased circulation, which might temporarily benefit skin or follicle health. But these effects are short-term and do not result in longer lashes.
In some cases, excessive rubbing or wiping tears can actually damage lashes or cause them to fall out.
Expert Opinions
Dermatologists and eye doctors agree: crying does not make eyelashes longer. Lash growth is primarily influenced by:
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Genetics
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Diet and nutrition
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Hormonal balance
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Proper lash care
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Use of lash serums or treatments
If you’re looking to grow longer lashes, consider proven methods like castor oil, biotin supplements, or FDA-approved lash serums.
Healthy Ways to Promote Lash Growth
Here are real, science-backed tips to enhance your lash length and health:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Lash serums | Contain peptides and nutrients to boost growth |
| Castor or coconut oil | Moisturizes follicles and may strengthen lashes |
| Gentle makeup removal | Prevents lash breakage |
| Avoiding lash curlers | Reduces lash stress and damage |
| Eating a balanced diet | Supports hair and lash health (rich in protein, vitamins) |
Final Verdict: Myth or Reality?
It’s a myth. Crying does not make your eyelashes grow longer. While it may hydrate the eye area or boost circulation briefly, there is no scientific proof that it leads to longer or thicker lashes.
Conclusion
Crying is a healthy emotional outlet — but it’s not a beauty hack for longer lashes. If lash growth is your goal, focus on proven methods and avoid relying on myths. Your emotional well-being and your lashes will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can crying damage your eyelashes?
A: Yes, if you rub your eyes harshly or wipe tears roughly, it can cause lashes to break or fall out.
Q2: Why do people think crying makes lashes longer?
A: It’s mostly due to social media myths, personal stories, or misleading before-and-after pictures.
Q3: What’s the best way to grow longer eyelashes?
A: Use lash serums, nourish your body, and avoid harsh products or habits that damage lashes.
Q4: Are there any natural oils for lash growth?
A: Yes, castor oil and coconut oil are commonly used to moisturize and possibly strengthen lashes.
