What Are the Causes of Thinning Lashes?

Ciliary madarosis, or alopecia areata, commonly results in multiple areas of hair loss, not just thinning or loss of the lashes themselves. Thought to be caused by eyelid inflammation as well as the body's immune system turning on itself, it is best treated by an experienced immunologist or dermatologist.

Cause of Thinning Lashes

• In most cases, ciliary madarosis is caused by an eye inflammation called blepharitis. This, in and of itself, is treatable. Occasionally, though, the loss of eyelashes can indicate a more deeply rooted problem, such as an endocrine-system tumor or allergic reaction.

Endocrine System Causes

• Ciliary madarosis, or alopecia areata, can be caused by a malfunction in the endocrine system, such as hypopituitarism, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Autoimmune Causes

• According to the National Institute of Health, the primary autoimmune cause of eyelash loss is alopecia areata. This condition occurs when antibodies view body hair as a foreign entity, thereby attacking various hair follicles and causing the hair to thin or fall out entirely.

Other Causes

• The Trichological Society of London believes that those who suffer from alopecia areata or madarosis often have a history of thyroid dysfunction, hay fever or asthma.

Features of Thinning Lashes

• In most cases, ciliary madarosis will not appear as a complete loss of eyelashes, but in a noticeable thinning of their appearance.