How likely is it that my eyelashes will fall out from chemo? Does it hurt? Can I still wear mascara? And when will they grow back? Find out all the answers, explanations, and tips about hair loss & eyelashes here.

1. How likely is it that my eyelashes will fall out from chemotherapy?

It all depends on the type of chemo you’re receiving. With treatments that cause significant or complete hair loss, chances are high that your eyelashes will also fall out—though it doesn’t happen systematically for everyone. Some people just notice thinning, others lose a few lashes, while some lose them all temporarily.

2. If my eyelashes fall out, when does that happen?

Your eyelashes (and eyebrows) usually fall out after the hair on your head. Sometimes soon after, sometimes only toward the very end of your chemotherapy treatment.

3. Does it hurt to lose your eyelashes from chemo?

Losing your eyelashes from chemo isn’t truly painful. Some people do experience itching or irritation, but that usually lasts only briefly and stops once the lashes are gone. Avoid pulling them out yourself, as this will only irritate your eyelid unnecessarily.

Still feeling itchy or uncomfortable? Then your eyes and the surrounding skin may simply be dry from the chemo or other medications. Talk to your doctor or nurse—they may recommend moisturizing eye drops. At the pharmacy you can also find eye creams or lotions for the sensitive skin around your eyes. Be careful with anti-aging creams, as they often contain stimulating ingredients that may irritate. Opt instead for gentle, preservative-free products such as the natural eye serum we offer in our webshop.

Read more: 10 Questions People Often Have About Chemo & Hair Loss >>

4. Can I still use mascara if my eyelashes fall out?

Wearing mascara while your lashes are already falling out has several drawbacks. By highlighting your lashes, you draw more attention to the fact that there aren’t many left. Plus, the mascara wand lightly tugs at them, which may pull lashes out prematurely. Finally, when removing makeup you risk rubbing lashes off with your cloth or cotton pad. In short, it’s better to skip mascara—there are more flattering, lash-friendly alternatives (see next question). Of course, once your lashes start growing back you can use mascara again, ideally non-aggressive formulas.

5. How can I disguise eyelash loss with makeup?

Drawing on lashes is far trickier than filling in eyebrows. But you can still enhance your eyes with makeup to mimic the subtle frame lashes normally give. A common mistake: using a dark eyeliner all around the eye. Without lashes, this looks harsh and makes your gaze appear closed rather than open.

Want an expressive look? Go for a softer approach: apply eyeliner pencil gently along the lash line and smudge it slightly. This also helps create the illusion of volume if your lashes grow back thinner than before.

And beauty consultant Martine Dehaene taught us another trick: make a thick swipe of dark kohl pencil on the back of your hand, mix it with a bit of concealer, and dab this homemade blend close to your lash line, blending it out. The secret? The concealer makes it last much longer so you don’t have to reapply throughout the day.

Read more: Fresh and Glowing in Just 10 Minutes: Easy Makeup Tips During Chemo >>

6. Are false eyelashes a solution?

There’s nothing wrong with false eyelashes, but applying them neatly does require some skill. They’re not ideal for daily wear—better for a party or special occasion. If your eyes are easily irritated from chemo or your skin is dry and flaky, be cautious with the adhesives. If needed, seek advice from a professional beautician, since allergic reactions are the last thing you need during chemo.

7. What about permanent makeup or lash extensions?

We personally recommend going the natural route. Eyelashes almost always grow back—it’s just a matter of patience, though for some it takes longer than for others. Think carefully before starting permanent makeup such as a lash line tattoo. If you want this, wait until after your chemo, when your skin is in better condition and your new lashes show you the final result. The same goes for lash extensions, tints, and so on.

8. When will my eyelashes grow back after chemo?

For most people, lashes grow back fairly quickly after chemo. The timing varies from person to person, and thickness may also differ.

Want to strengthen your lashes (and brows) once they start regrowing? Use our revitalizing lash & brow serum from Même. It helps make them stronger, thicker, and more supple. If your eyes or skin are still very sensitive from treatment, don’t worry—this serum is specially developed for gentle care. It promotes growth and protects your new, fragile lashes and brow hairs from breaking.

Read more: Hair Growth After Chemo: 8 Questions You’re Not Alone in Asking >>

Note: Here we focus on the most common questions, based on how hair loss and regrowth typically occur after chemotherapy. Exceptions are always possible. Have questions or concerns? Talk to your doctor or nurse.