Eyelash pulling is a hair pulling disorder known as trichotillomania (TMM). Stress, anxiety, depression, boredom are some of the reasons why people start pulling their eyelashes. This habit usually starts when the individual is 12 year old and can continue into adulthood. Relaxation techniques, behavioral therapy, hypnosis are some of the ways to stop the pulling of eyelashes.
Why Do People Pull their Eyelashes?
Eyelash pulling can temporarily relieve the stress. The action of pulling can act as a temporary distraction from stress. The painful sensation during pulling/ the relaxed sensation after pulling – can make this a compulsive habit. However, the act of pulling eyelashes can lead to thinning of eyelashes and subsequent feelings of embarrassment, shame or other negative emotions.
Stress, anxiety, depression, emotional traumas, boredom are some of the reasons why reasons why people pull their eyelashes.
How to Prevent Pulling of Eyelash?
- Applying Vaseline on the eyelashes can make it harder for you to pull the hair out. The hand slips while pulling the hair when Vaseline is applied. If this helps you on a temporary basis, after few days you may no longer be interested in pulling the hair
- Decrease stress. If you are too busy and increasing your stress levels -its time to take some rest. Excessive stress can translate into hair pulling. Hence, learn ways to decrease stress and overcome the hair pulling
- Keep your hands busy. Keeping your hands busy can distract you from pulling the eyelash hair
- Take up some hobby to keep yourself from getting bored
- Cognitive behavioral therapy can be helpful in reversing the habit.
- Hypnosis was also found to be effective in helping people reverse this habit.
The habit of pulling eyelashes may be tough to quit if it becomes a habit. However, small changes by reducing the stress levels, finding ways to relax can help in overcoming this. If it is severe, you can consult a psychologist or psychotherapist for behavioral modification.
