There is a range of reasons that can trigger hair loss at the eyebrows from lifestyle to genetics. We take a closer look at those triggers and explore the solutions for eyebrow alopecia.
All About Eyebrows
Our eyebrows are there to protect our eyes from sweat and water running into them. But as modern humans, they perform a host of other important functions. They play a fundamental role in face to face communications and, aesthetically, shape the face and accentuate the eyes.
To a Chinese “face reader,” a strong pair of eyebrows indicate leadership qualities. They associate wide eyebrows with masculinity and impulsiveness and link them with self-confidence.
More recently, researchers at the University of Toronto announced that in tests they had seen a correlation between thick eyebrows and a narcissistic personality.
Eyebrow Alopecia
Alopecia on the scalp is notoriously difficult to spot early, a sufferer can be in an advanced state of hair loss before they even become aware they have a problem. All too often, it is a comment from a relative, friend, or co-worker that forces a closer examination and reveals the truth.
This cannot be said of hair loss at the eyebrow. We do not need to lose too many hairs there to notice the reduction. The number one cause of eyebrow alopecia is over-plucking either with tweezers or wax. The long-term use of tweezers to remove eyebrow hairs is bad news for the follicle. The repeated ripping out of the hair at its root will ultimately see the follicle fail and stop generating new hairs. For women, in particular, changes in hormone levels at an age where they begin to see a general thinning of the hair can also lead to thinning eyebrows.
There is also a condition called alopecia areata. Most commonly this presents as coin-sized, disc-shaped patches of missing hair on the scalp. But it is a condition that can also affect the eyebrows, a quick visit to an expert will help with a diagnosis.
Can Eyebrow Alopecia Be Treated?
The good news is that, for many, the condition is temporary. Simply stopping plucking or waxing should allow normal growth to resume. You can expect eyebrows to regrow in about 6 to 8 weeks.
The not so good news is that if you have killed the follicle there is little or no hope of reviving it. At that stage, you are faced with either living with your new appearance or using makeup to mask the problem. Scalp Micropigmentation can, of course, provide a lasting and aesthetically rewarding solution.
HIS Hair Clinic
Eyebrows are incredibly important for our appearance. If you doubt it for a moment then spend a few minutes using Photoshop or a similar application to edit some eyebrows on an image. Any changes you make will have an impact on the overall appearance of the wearer. Some will make a profound difference, try removing them completely and you end up with a challenging outcome.
If there is a lesson to be learned it is to treat your eyebrows with respect. Damaging them can become a long term problem.
If you would like to discuss your hair loss situation with one of our team of friendly experts, simply complete our contact form on this page or click here to find your nearest clinic.
