Eyebrow and Eyelash Thinning in Perimenopause: Causes and Solutions
Learn why perimenopause causes eyebrow and eyelash thinning and what you can do to protect, restore, and enhance sparse brows and lashes.
Why Brows and Lashes Thin During Perimenopause
Many women notice that their eyebrows and eyelashes become noticeably thinner and sparser during perimenopause. This is directly linked to falling oestrogen. Oestrogen supports the growth cycle of all body hair, including brows and lashes, by sustaining the anagen (active growth) phase. As oestrogen declines, individual hairs spend less time actively growing, becoming finer, lighter, and shorter. Thyroid dysfunction, more common in women during their 40s and 50s, also causes marked thinning of the outer third of the eyebrows. This is a recognised clinical sign worth checking if brow loss is particularly concentrated in that area. Iron deficiency, high stress, and nutritional gaps compound the hormonal effect. The result is often eyebrows that appear patchy or thin at the tails, and lashes that lack their previous density and length.
Eyelashes: What Changes and Why It Matters
Eyelash follicles are sensitive to the same hormonal shifts that affect scalp hair and brows. During perimenopause, lashes often become shorter, thinner, and less pigmented. They may grow more slowly and shed more readily, with fewer hairs in the active growth phase at any given time. This reduces the overall density and curl that many women associate with healthy lashes. The lash line may appear less defined. Women who previously needed little mascara or lash enhancement may find that their natural lashes no longer provide adequate framing for the eye. Beyond aesthetics, thinner lashes provide less protection to the eye from dust and debris, though this is rarely a significant health concern. The emotional impact, however, can be real. Eyes often seem less expressive with sparse lashes, and this contributes to the broader experience of perimenopausal facial changes that many women find difficult to adjust to.
Medical Treatments for Brow and Lash Thinning
Bimatoprost is the only clinically proven topical treatment for eyelash growth. Originally developed as an eye drop for glaucoma, it was found to significantly increase eyelash length, thickness, and darkness as a side effect. A topical bimatoprost product is licensed specifically for lash hypotrichosis in some countries and can be prescribed by a GP or ophthalmologist. It is applied to the upper lash line nightly. Results appear after about eight weeks and require continued use to maintain. For eyebrows, minoxidil applied carefully to brow areas is used off-label and has some supporting evidence for stimulating regrowth. Given the proximity to eyes, application should be precise and sparing. Addressing underlying thyroid dysfunction or iron deficiency through appropriate treatment is often the most effective step of all when these are contributing factors, with brow and lash regrowth following as thyroid levels or iron stores normalise.
Nutritional Support for Healthy Follicles
The same nutrients that support scalp hair growth also support brow and lash follicles. Adequate protein provides the keratin building blocks needed for any hair structure. Biotin deficiency, though relatively uncommon, causes changes in brow and lash hair quality. A B-complex supplement including biotin ensures no gaps in this area. Iron and ferritin levels deserve particular attention, as low ferritin is associated with poor hair follicle function across the body. Vitamin D supports the hair growth cycle and deficiency is widespread in perimenopausal women, particularly in northern climates during winter months. Omega-3 fatty acids support follicle health and scalp circulation. Antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits reduce oxidative stress, which damages follicles over time. If diet is limited or varied with age, a good quality multivitamin with minerals can help fill gaps while a better eating pattern is established.
Cosmetic and Enhancement Options
While treatments and nutrition work to support regrowth, cosmetic approaches can address the visual impact of thinning brows and lashes in the meantime. For brows, eyebrow pencils, powders, and tinted brow gels can fill sparse areas very effectively. Microblading, a form of semi-permanent tattooing that deposits pigment in hair-like strokes, creates a natural-looking brow that lasts one to three years. Powder ombre brows, applied using a machine technique, suit more mature skin and can also last two to three years. Both require a skilled and experienced practitioner to look natural on mature skin. For lashes, lengthening and volumising mascaras, lash tints, and lash lifts all enhance the appearance of thinner lashes. Individual lash extensions can be applied by a technician for a longer-lasting boost, though they require maintenance every two to three weeks. Avoid harsh eye makeup removers that pull at lashes, and be gentle when removing mascara.
Daily Care to Protect What You Have
Daily habits can protect existing brow and lash hairs from mechanical damage. Avoid rubbing or pulling at the eye area, particularly when removing makeup. Use a gentle micellar water or oil-based remover applied with light pressure. Avoid sleeping in mascara, which dries lash fibres and increases breakage. Avoid waterproof mascaras for everyday use, as these require more aggressive removal. For brows, a conditioning serum containing peptides or castor oil may nourish follicles over time. Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid and fatty acids. While clinical evidence is limited, it is inexpensive and low risk. Apply a small amount each night using a clean spoolie brush.
Related reading
Get your personalized daily plan
Track symptoms, match workouts to your day type, and build a routine that adapts with you through every phase of perimenopause.