eyelash

Eyelashes are sensory hairs that grow along the borders of the eyelids. They are part of the skin and are typically found at the junction where the skin transitions to the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane lining the eyelid. These hairs, along with the eyelids themselves, serve to protect the eyeball from injury and help maintain a moist environment essential for the eye's proper function.12

Eyelashes also play a role in the blink reflex; when a speck of dust or other irritant touches them, it triggers an involuntary closing of the eyelid to protect the eye. Sebaceous glands, which produce an oily substance called sebum, are often attached to hair follicles, including those that produce eyelashes. This sebum helps lubricate the lid borders and forms part of the tear film, reducing the evaporation of tears.3124