Eyelid Structure

• To better understand eyelashes and how they grow, you have to first understand the eyelid. The eyelid, or palpebrae, is reinforced folds of skin. These folds are attached to skeletal muscles known as orbicularis oculi that allow movement.
  Eyelids each have tarsal plates, which give the eyelid more protection and their general shape, and tarsal glands that secrete an oily substance to prevent the eyelids from sticking together. These glands are also found on the bottoms of the hair follicles or eyelashes. When the tarsal glands become infected, the condition is known as a sty.
  
  

Lash Reflexes

• There is one row of eyelashes perfectly fastened to each eyelid by the plexus. The plexus is what gives the eyelashes their extra sensitivity. It also allows the eyelashes to close quickly if dust or particles come near the eye. Lashes vary according to which eyelid they are on: Upper lashes are longer and usually curve upwards, while lower lashes are shorter and without much curve.
  
  

Natural Growth

• But do eyelashes grow? Yes, healthy individuals will grow eyelashes like normal hair. Usually, lashes grow 1/2 mm a day or 1/4 inch a month. Eyelashes may not grow back if a person is unhealthy or has a condition such as cancer or immune deficiency. Luckily, there are many products on the market that assist with eyelash growth.
  
  

Over-the-Counter Growth

• You can try using lash extension mascara, like the ones made by L'Oreal and Lancome. Or try the re-growth mascara, Age Intervention Eyelash Conditioner. The FDA has also approved the drug Latisse for eyelash growth. Latisse is made by the manufacturers of Botox and was originally designed for glaucoma. These products range from $5 to hundreds of dollars.
  
  

Desperate Measures

• Other alternatives are cosmetic surgery. Eyelashes can be transplanted as well as extended. Fake or false eyelashes can be attached to the eyelid, giving the full appearance most women desire. For a less drastic solution, though, find a dependable mascara and a handy eyelash curler.