Despite several theories, eyelashes' 'function has long remained a mystery'.1 Some biologists believe that eyelashes act as whisker-like sensors. Others speculate that, in humans at least, eyelashes help communicate expressions and draw attention to the eyes,1 an attribute cosmetic manufacturers have exploited since Eugene Rimmel invented mascara in 1840.
Eyelashes undoubtedly protect eyes from dust and airborne particles. Children with allergies have eyelashes that are 10% longer and denser than those without. However, how eyelashes protect the eyes is another mystery.1 So, researchers modelled the eyelashes of 22 species of mammals as diverse as the Amur hedgehog, nine-banded armadillo, panda, giraffe, chimpanzee and humans. In each species, the length of the eyelashes is roughly one-third the eye's width.1
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