Result of Eyelash Pulling

[Allison]

Hello.  A question further down the board about compulsive eyelash pulling reminded me of something I sometimes wonder about.

From the time I was about 14, I also tugged compulsively at my lashes, to the point of actually pulling some out.  I know what this is and why I have it.  I'm 27 now and have gotten much better about this over the last several years, although sometimes the need flairs up (two weeks ago I pulled out all of my lower lashes, and some of my eyebrows.)  In general, though, I'm much better.

Anyway, my question applies here because it is about hair follicles.  Can this habit damage the shape of them?  My lashes are very long and thick and dark, and still are thankfully, but I wonder if years of doing this would cause them to grow in less curly.  When I was young it was often commented on how curly and long they were.  They just don't seem to grow in as curly now.  Like I said, still long and thick, but they seem straighter.  Maybe it's just my imagination.  Just so you'll know, I've never tugged them really hard like when eyebrows are tweezed.  I would just yank until the somewhat loose ones pulled out.  Sometimes a lot of them were loose.  So basically, I don't think it was too traumatic on the follicle.

I just really want to know if I could have changed the shape of the follicles.

Thanks.

[Karen]

Dear Doctor,
I have had a re-occuring large red area on my leg, the area at times has pitting edema and is very painful.  I was tested several times for a possible DVT, tests were negative.  My doctor is now treating me for cellulitis, but there is no wound or bite mark. Even have antibiotics the area has re-occured twice and seems to be moving up my leg on the last occurance.  I also broke out with a small row of blisters along my left thumb during the last ocurrance.  Could this all be due to cellulitis, does it re-occur in this appearance if not treated with the correct drug.Should I see a dermatologist for further treatment?  Thanks

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Allison:

You're probably right, that pulling out the eyelashes will not damage them permanently.  They're probably just a little less curly, because that's what happens over time.

The hair-pulling habit is best considered a mild form of obsessive-compulsive disorder.  If you can get yourself not to do it, that's fine.  If not, you should consider getting help from a doctor, usually a psychiatrist, who specializes in this.  Treatment is medical, though, not "psychological."

Best.

Dr. R