How to Get Eyelash Out of Eye: Finding an eyelash in your eye is a surprisingly common and irritating experience. Though it’s usually harmless, it can cause discomfort, redness, watering, and a burning sensation if not removed quickly. Understanding how to get an eyelash out of your eye safely can help you avoid unnecessary complications or damage to this sensitive organ.
In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and step-by-step methods for removing an eyelash from your eye. We’ll also cover when it’s time to seek medical help and answer some frequently asked questions.
Table of Contents
Why Do Eyelashes Fall Into the Eye?
Eyelashes serve as protective barriers, keeping dust, debris, and small particles away from the eyes. However, they are naturally shed and can occasionally fall inward. Reasons for this include:
- Natural shedding: It’s normal to lose one to five lashes per day.
- Eye rubbing: Rubbing your eyes with your hands can dislodge lashes.
- Applying makeup or false eyelashes: These processes can accidentally push lashes into the eye.
- Dry or irritated eyes: These conditions can increase lash shedding and make it easier for lashes to get trapped.
Symptoms of an Eyelash in the Eye
You’ll usually know something is wrong when an eyelash gets in your eye. Common symptoms include:
- A gritty or scratchy sensation
- Watery or teary eyes
- Redness or swelling
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision
- Frequent blinking or inability to keep the eye open
If these symptoms persist for more than a few hours, or if the pain is severe, it’s important to see a doctor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Eyelash Out of Eye
Removing an eyelash from the eye requires care and cleanliness. Follow these steps to do it safely:
1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
Before touching your eye, wash your hands with soap and warm water to remove any dirt or bacteria. This minimizes the risk of infection.
2. Avoid Rubbing Your Eye
Rubbing can cause the lash to scratch the cornea or move deeper into the eye. Instead, keep your hands away from your face and stay calm.
3. Identify the Eyelash
Stand in front of a mirror with good lighting. Gently pull down your lower eyelid or lift your upper eyelid to locate the lash. You may see it floating on the surface or lodged under the lid.
4. Blink Several Times
Sometimes blinking rapidly will cause your tears to flush the eyelash out naturally. Tilt your head slightly and blink hard several times while keeping your eye open as much as possible.
5. Use Sterile Eyewash or Saline Solution
If blinking doesn’t help, use a saline eye wash or clean, lukewarm water to rinse your eye. You can:
- Tilt your head to the side and pour the saline across your open eye.
- Use an eye cup or clean dropper.
- Blink frequently while rinsing.
This is often the most effective and gentle method.
6. Use a Clean Tissue or Cotton Swab (If the Lash is Visible)
If the eyelash is on the white part of the eye or the lower lid:
- Use a damp tissue or cotton swab to gently touch and lift the lash out.
- Be extremely careful not to touch the cornea (the colored part of your eye).
Avoid using tweezers or fingers inside the eye, as they can cause injury.
7. Flip Your Eyelid (If Necessary)
If the eyelash is stuck under the upper eyelid:
- Look down and gently pull your upper eyelid over the lower one.
- Blink several times. This may help the lash to dislodge and come to the surface.
Alternatively, use a clean cotton swab to gently flip the upper eyelid and inspect the inner surface. Flush with saline if the lash is spotted.
When to Seek Medical Help
Although most cases can be resolved at home, there are times when professional care is necessary. Seek help if:
- You feel sharp or persistent pain.
- The eyelash is stuck and unreachable.
- Your vision is blurry or you see floaters.
- You experience sensitivity to light or severe tearing.
- Redness or swelling increases after several hours.
An optometrist or ophthalmologist can safely remove the object using specialized tools under sterile conditions.
What Not to Do
- Don’t rub your eyes, no matter how tempting.
- Don’t use dirty tools, fingers, or tissues.
- Don’t try to dig into the eye if the lash isn’t visible.
- Don’t ignore prolonged symptoms, especially pain or visual changes.
Preventing Eyelashes from Getting in Your Eye
While it’s impossible to avoid completely, here are some preventive tips:
- Remove makeup carefully each night.
- Avoid aggressive eye rubbing.
- Clean your eyelids and lashes if you have oily skin or dandruff.
- Use eyelash combs to keep lashes clean and in place.
- Check false lashes or mascara application for loose hairs.
FAQs: How to Get Eyelash Out of Eye
Q1: Can an eyelash cause damage to my eye?
A single eyelash usually won’t cause serious harm. However, if it scratches the cornea or remains in place too long, it can lead to irritation or infection.
Q2: What if I can’t see the eyelash in the mirror?
The lash may be stuck under your eyelid. Try the blinking and saline rinsing methods. If discomfort persists, consult a doctor.
Q3: Is it okay to sleep with an eyelash in my eye?
No. If an eyelash is in your eye, try to remove it before sleeping. Leaving it overnight may lead to irritation or corneal scratches.
Q4: Can eyelashes go behind the eyeball?
No, it’s anatomically impossible. The conjunctiva (a thin membrane) prevents anything from moving behind the eyeball.
Q5: How long does it take for an eyelash to come out naturally?
If not removed manually, an eyelash often comes out within a few hours through natural tear flow. If symptoms last longer, seek medical help.
Q6: Is using tap water safe for eye rinsing?
It’s better to use sterile saline solution or distilled water. Tap water may contain impurities that can irritate the eye.
Q7: Can children or babies get eyelashes in their eyes?
Yes. Gently rinse their eyes with lukewarm water and consult a pediatrician if the lash is not visible or the child is in distress.
Conclusion
Getting an eyelash in your eye is a minor but bothersome situation that most people will experience. The key is to stay calm, avoid rubbing, and use safe, hygienic methods for removal. With proper care, the eyelash can usually be removed easily at home. However, don’t hesitate to seek professional help if discomfort persists or if you’re unsure of what to do.
Keeping your hands clean, practicing good eye hygiene, and knowing how to act quickly are essential to protecting your eyes from unnecessary irritation or harm.
