How to Get Eyelash Out of Eye

Published on: October 30, 2023
Eyes of a woman with long eyelashes.

Getting an eyelash in your eye can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. It can cause redness, irritation, tearing, and even pain. Fortunately, how to get eyelash out of eye is a relatively straightforward process. Here are steps on how to get an eyelash out of your eye safely.

Avoid Rubbing Your Eye

While it may be tempting to rub your eye when it feels irritated, rubbing can actually push the object further into your eye or scratch your cornea, leading to additional problems. It’s important to resist the urge to rub your eye.

Use an Eye Cup or Eyewash Station

If you have access to an eye cup or eyewash station, it can be an effective way to flush out an object. Fill the eye cup or eyewash station with saline solution or sterile water and gently hold it against your eye to rinse it out.

Blink or Roll Your Eyes

Sometimes, simply blinking rapidly can help your eye’s natural lubrication, such as tears, wash away small foreign particles, including eyelashes. Try blinking a few times to see if the object clears naturally.

Another option is gently rolling your eyes in various directions to help dislodge the foreign object. Close your eyelids and gently move your eyes from left to right and up and down. This can encourage the object to move away from the sensitive cornea.

Allow Tears to Flow

Allowing your eye to naturally produce tears can help wash away the object. Look down and keep your affected eye open. This can encourage tear production and may help the object move toward the corner of your eye where you can remove it.

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Wash Your Hands

Before attempting to remove an eyelash stuck in eye, it is crucial to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Clean hands are essential to prevent introducing any additional bacteria or dirt into your eye, which could exacerbate the situation.

Locate a Well-Lit Area with a Mirror

Find a well-lit area with good natural or artificial lighting. Adequate lighting is crucial for seeing the object in your eye and ensuring a safe removal. A bright bathroom or bringing a mirror outside can provide you with the light you need.

Examine Your Eye

Gently pull down your lower eyelid with clean fingers to expose the white part (sclera) of your eye. Use your other hand or a mirror to examine the affected eye. Look for any visible foreign objects, such as an eyelash or debris.

How to Remove an Eyelash From Your Eye

If you can see the eyelash, you may try using a clean, damp cotton swab or tissue to gently touch the object. Do not use a dry cotton swab or tissue, as it may further irritate your eye. If the eyelash remains in your eye and is not visible, you can try flushing your eye with saline solution. To do this:

  • Tilt your head over a sink or basin.
  • Gently pour the saline solution into the corner of your eye, allowing it to flow over the surface of your eye.
  • Blink several times while the saline solution is in your eye. This may help to dislodge the foreign object and wash it out.
  • Continue this process until you feel relief or the object is no longer present.

If saline solution or eye drops are not available, you can rinse your eye with clean, lukewarm water. Cup your hands together, fill them with water, and gently splash your eye while keeping it open. Be careful not to use hot or cold water, as it can cause further irritation

If your eye remains irritated, you can use over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops. These drops can help to soothe your eye and may assist in moving the object out of your eye.

Seek Medical Assistance

If the object remains in your eye after trying these methods, or if you experience severe pain, vision changes, or any signs of infection, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. An eye care professional can provide the expertise and tools needed to safely remove the eyelash.

How Long Can an Eyelash Stay in Your Eye?

The duration an eyelash can remain in your eye varies widely depending on several factors, including the size and location of the eyelash and your eye’s natural defense mechanisms. In many cases, a small eyelash can be flushed out by blinking or production of tears within a few hours to a day.

However, if the eyelash becomes embedded or positioned in a way that irritates the eye, it may persist longer and cause discomfort. In such cases, it is crucial to take measures to safely remove the eyelash and seek professional medical attention if necessary to prevent potential eye complications or damage.
A man using an ear cotton pad to remove an eyelash from the corner of his eye.
Getting an eyelash stuck in eye can be uncomfortable, but with the right approach, you can often resolve the issue safely and effectively. If you are unable to remove the object or experience severe discomfort, do not hesitate to seek professional medical help to protect your eye health.

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