Eyelash, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Eyelashes are hairs that grow from the eyelids. They are sensitive to being touched, providing a warning that an object is near the eye, which is then closed reflexively to prevent foreign bodies from entering the eye. Hairs grow from follicles in the underlying layer of skin (the dermis), and are mainly composed of the protein keratin. Squamous skin cells are also seen flaking off the surface of the skin, and adhering to the shaft of the eyelash. Magnification: x350 when printed 10 centimetres wide.