split image of You Jianxia the record holder for the longest eyelash holding eyelash

You Jianxia (China) has held the record for the longest eyelash since 28 June 2016.

At that time, her eyelash measured 12.4 cm (4.88 in) and could be found on the upper eyelid of her left eye. 

However, You Jianxia's eyelashes continued to grow over the years, and on 20 May 2021, it was confirmed that the new longest eyelash was 20.5 cm (8.0 in).

All of You Jianxia's eyelashes are particularly long, but again, the longest eyelash of them all was found on the upper eyelid of her left eye.

"I first realized that my eyelashes were growing in 2015. They continue to grow slowly, becoming longer and longer," she explained. 

"I did visit medical professionals to find out why my eyelashes are longer than others people's eyelashes. The doctor couldn't explain this, and he felt it was really amazing.

"I also tried to find scientific reasons such as genes or something else. However, none of my family have long eyelashes like me, so it can't be explained."

You Jianxia in 2017

You Jianxia believes her long eyelashes may be down to divine intervention as opposed to a scientific reason. 

"I kept thinking about why I have such long eyelashes, then I remembered that I had spent over 480 days in the mountain, years ago."

"So, I told myself that my eyelashes must be a gift given by the Buddha."

Whatever the reason was for You Jianxia’s long eyelashes, she believes the record-breaking feature gives her strength. 

"There might be some connections between my long eyelashes and a stronger body. I am in fair health now, but when I was born, I was relatively weak. Now I feel quite good and many people think I look younger."

Despite how long her unique eyelashes are, You Jianxia says that they don’t impact her life on a day-to-day basis. 

If anything, they save her some time when she’s applying her makeup! 

You Jianxia using her eyelashes as eyeliner next to llily

"Thanks to my naturally long eyelashes, I don't need to wear eyeshadow or eyeliner. My natural long eyelashes act as the long eyeliner."

"Because my eyelashes are natural, I find it easy to wash my face and go about my daily life. They fall out and grow again. Sometimes they break if you pull them carelessly. It’s not an issue, as they are still growing. They are now several centimetres longer than they were 5 years ago."

You Jianxia was correct to assume that her eyelashes have grown since her record was first confirmed in 2016, despite the fall outs and breaks over the years. 

They are almost eight centimetres longer than they used to be.

You Jianxia holding her right eyelashes out to the side

"In my daily life, my eyelashes don't bring any concerns or difficulties. Just lots of joys. Only joys, no trouble."

Her new record has again reaffirmed You Jianxia’s love of her long eyelashes.

She wants to be a champion for "different beauties", such as those with the longest hair or the longest nails.

"I would like to say to other people who have unique beauties - let us rejoice together and encourage happiness."

You Jianxia holding her new guinness world records certificate