Are people really shaving off their eyelashes? Here's what experts say about the latest trend
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In the ever-evolving world of beauty and personal grooming, there’s always something new making the rounds.
From skincare routines to unexpected grooming habits, trends can take many forms—but some spark more questions than admiration.
One recent example circulating on social media has left many people blinking in disbelief: some men are reportedly shaving or trimming their eyelashes in an effort to look “more masculine.”
While it may sound surprising, clips showing men removing their lashes—either on their own or in barbershops—have been steadily appearing online.
But beneath this grooming choice lies a deeper discussion about changing beauty standards, societal expectations around masculinity, and the very real health concerns that can come with altering such a delicate part of the body.
Why are some men doing this?
Eyelashes aren’t just cosmetic—they serve an important purpose.
They protect the eyes from dust and debris, help block out sunlight, and even encourage blinking to keep the eyes moist.
Despite these benefits, some men are trimming or shaving them in an effort to appear less “feminine.”
Social media posts show men using everything from clippers to scissors to shorten or completely remove their lashes.
The motivation appears rooted in a push to embrace a more traditionally masculine appearance, and for some, that means minimizing anything perceived as soft or delicate—including long lashes.
Also read: Tiny creatures could be living on your face! Are you at risk?
What eyelashes actually do
Ophthalmic experts caution against removing or altering your lashes.
According to surgeon Vickie Lee, eyelashes play an essential role in eye health by reducing airflow across the eye, blocking debris, and filtering light.
Trimming them not only eliminates that protection but can also cause discomfort.
Cutting them too short may leave sharp ends that irritate the surface of the eye.
This can lead to redness, itching, and even increase the risk of infection or injury.
Also read: Doctors won’t tell you this: The pink eye treatment they use but NEVER prescribe to you!
Changing perceptions of masculinity
Throughout history, long lashes have been considered a sign of beauty—often associated with femininity.
But in some circles, there’s a growing resistance to anything seen as traditionally “feminine.”
This has led some men to actively avoid traits like long lashes in an effort to appear tougher or more masculine.
Even public figures haven’t been immune to this scrutiny.
During a recent televised debate, a politician’s naturally long eyelashes sparked online discussion, with some viewers speculating he was wearing makeup.
It’s a reflection of just how strongly personal appearance is tied to perception—and how quickly those perceptions can shift.
Also read: Elton John's descent into darkness–Learn about his battle and how you can avoid the same fate
Expert insight: cultural pressure and gender identity
Gender and cultural studies researchers say trends like this often arise in moments of social tension.
When societies lean toward more conservative ideals, there can be increased pressure to exaggerate physical differences between men and women.
One expert noted that lashes have become a strong visual cue—one group is encouraged to enhance them dramatically, while another is pushed to downplay them.
The result is a cycle of visual contrast, driven more by social pressure than personal choice.
Are women stepping away from big lashes too?
Interestingly, while some men are reducing their lash length, a growing number of women are also choosing to go without mascara or lash extensions.
Social media posts tagged with “no mascara” or “natural lashes” are becoming more common, suggesting a shift toward a more minimal approach in some circles.
That said, mascara continues to be one of the most popular beauty products.
So while preferences may be changing for some, dramatic lashes are far from disappearing.
Also read: Is your chin hair trying to tell you something? What every woman needs to know
Should you follow this trend?
Health experts strongly discourage trimming or shaving your eyelashes.
Not only do lashes serve a protective role, but once removed, it can take weeks—or even months—for them to grow back.
In the meantime, your eyes are more vulnerable to irritants and infection.
If you’ve ever felt pressure to alter your appearance for the sake of a trend, remember that health and comfort should always come first.
Beauty standards change constantly, but the health of your eyes is worth protecting!
Read next: Not everyone gets this number—The quiet favor raising eyebrows
Let’s talk about it. Have you seen this eyelash-shaving trend in your circles or on social media? Do you think beauty pressures are getting stronger—or just more visible? Share your thoughts in the comments below and help us explore how trends shape the way we see ourselves!
From skincare routines to unexpected grooming habits, trends can take many forms—but some spark more questions than admiration.
One recent example circulating on social media has left many people blinking in disbelief: some men are reportedly shaving or trimming their eyelashes in an effort to look “more masculine.”
While it may sound surprising, clips showing men removing their lashes—either on their own or in barbershops—have been steadily appearing online.
But beneath this grooming choice lies a deeper discussion about changing beauty standards, societal expectations around masculinity, and the very real health concerns that can come with altering such a delicate part of the body.
Some men are turning to eyelash removal in response to shifting beauty standards—raising concerns from health experts. Image Source: Pexels / Andrey. Voronko
Why are some men doing this?
Eyelashes aren’t just cosmetic—they serve an important purpose.
They protect the eyes from dust and debris, help block out sunlight, and even encourage blinking to keep the eyes moist.
Despite these benefits, some men are trimming or shaving them in an effort to appear less “feminine.”
Social media posts show men using everything from clippers to scissors to shorten or completely remove their lashes.
The motivation appears rooted in a push to embrace a more traditionally masculine appearance, and for some, that means minimizing anything perceived as soft or delicate—including long lashes.
Also read: Tiny creatures could be living on your face! Are you at risk?
What eyelashes actually do
Ophthalmic experts caution against removing or altering your lashes.
According to surgeon Vickie Lee, eyelashes play an essential role in eye health by reducing airflow across the eye, blocking debris, and filtering light.
Trimming them not only eliminates that protection but can also cause discomfort.
Cutting them too short may leave sharp ends that irritate the surface of the eye.
This can lead to redness, itching, and even increase the risk of infection or injury.
Also read: Doctors won’t tell you this: The pink eye treatment they use but NEVER prescribe to you!
Changing perceptions of masculinity
Throughout history, long lashes have been considered a sign of beauty—often associated with femininity.
But in some circles, there’s a growing resistance to anything seen as traditionally “feminine.”
This has led some men to actively avoid traits like long lashes in an effort to appear tougher or more masculine.
Even public figures haven’t been immune to this scrutiny.
During a recent televised debate, a politician’s naturally long eyelashes sparked online discussion, with some viewers speculating he was wearing makeup.
It’s a reflection of just how strongly personal appearance is tied to perception—and how quickly those perceptions can shift.
Also read: Elton John's descent into darkness–Learn about his battle and how you can avoid the same fate
Expert insight: cultural pressure and gender identity
Gender and cultural studies researchers say trends like this often arise in moments of social tension.
When societies lean toward more conservative ideals, there can be increased pressure to exaggerate physical differences between men and women.
One expert noted that lashes have become a strong visual cue—one group is encouraged to enhance them dramatically, while another is pushed to downplay them.
The result is a cycle of visual contrast, driven more by social pressure than personal choice.
Are women stepping away from big lashes too?
Interestingly, while some men are reducing their lash length, a growing number of women are also choosing to go without mascara or lash extensions.
Social media posts tagged with “no mascara” or “natural lashes” are becoming more common, suggesting a shift toward a more minimal approach in some circles.
That said, mascara continues to be one of the most popular beauty products.
So while preferences may be changing for some, dramatic lashes are far from disappearing.
Also read: Is your chin hair trying to tell you something? What every woman needs to know
Should you follow this trend?
Health experts strongly discourage trimming or shaving your eyelashes.
Not only do lashes serve a protective role, but once removed, it can take weeks—or even months—for them to grow back.
In the meantime, your eyes are more vulnerable to irritants and infection.
If you’ve ever felt pressure to alter your appearance for the sake of a trend, remember that health and comfort should always come first.
Beauty standards change constantly, but the health of your eyes is worth protecting!
Read next: Not everyone gets this number—The quiet favor raising eyebrows
Let’s talk about it. Have you seen this eyelash-shaving trend in your circles or on social media? Do you think beauty pressures are getting stronger—or just more visible? Share your thoughts in the comments below and help us explore how trends shape the way we see ourselves!
