Are you tired of always trekking to your lash tech for extensions? Then, look into grabbing an eyelash serum. Eyelash serums amplify your natural lashes. “Some are designed to thicken the lashes, while others are intended to increase their length,” board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of PowerYourCurls, Hamdan Abdullah Hamed MBChB, told 21Ninety.
With the array of eyelash serums on the market, you’ll want to grab an eyelash serum that will enhance your lashes without irritation. “You should be extra cautious about any product going in or near your eye,” ophthalmologist and CEO of EyeFacts, Saya Nagori MD, told 21Ninety. Eyelash serums need to be applied on the lashline to be effective. So, it’s important to grab a serum that works with your eyes.
How Eyelash Serums Work
“Eyelash serums typically contain a combination of ingredients that act on the lashes in different ways,” Dr. Hamed said. According to Dr. Nagori, a majority of non-prescription serums moisturize and condition the lashes to make them appear fuller and longer. But, the ophthalmologist noted that there are serums with protein and collagen—both of which promote lash growth.
“Thickening agents, such as peptides and proteins, work by stimulating the keratinocytes (the cells responsible for creating keratin, which is the main component of hair) in the follicles to produce more keratin,” Dr. Hamed explained. “This results in thicker and more voluminous lashes.”
On the other hand, prescription serums pack a serious lash-boosting punch. “These need to be used under the careful supervision of your eye doctor because they can damage your eyes if used incorrectly,” Dr. Nagori warned. The ophthalmologist continued to note that “there is only one serum that has actually been approved by the FDA.”
Are Eyelash Serums Safe
First thing’s first, make sure your serum is safe to use on your eyes. If the packaging is at tampered with, opened, cracked, or has any other physical faults, don’t use it. Expounding on safety, Dr. Hamed recommended that “you also need to make sure that there is no discoloration or evidence of mold on any part of the packaging.” He even noted that you should check under the stickers on the packaging, too.
“Avoid any serum that is oil-based,” Dr. Nagori warned. “While some oils are good for our hair and skin, they can weaken your lashes and make them prone to breakage.” The ophthalmologist also noted that it’s important to avoid serums with synthetic fragrances. They can cause eye irritation.
Choosing the Right Serum
Dr. Hamed said that, “a consumer should look for an eyelash serum that contains the highest quality ingredients and is free of filler substances.” The dermatologist explained that while many serums may claim to be natural, some natural ingredients can be harsh and irritating to the eyes. “Make sure that the product you choose was lab-tested, and will only cause damage if used incorrectly.”
NURX Bimatoprost (Generic Latisse®) Eyelash Growth Serum
NURX’s Bimatoprost (Generic Latisse®) Eyelash Growth Serum is a treatment that reduces serious eyelash thinning. It’s a clinically-recommended product that you can access without insurance by doing a brief consultation with a NURX licensed medical provider.
VEGAMOUR GRO+ Advanced Lash Serum
VEGAMOUR’s GRO+ Advanced Lash Serum is a clinically-tested lash growth serum. It uses a CBD-infused formula to provide fuller, thicker, and longer-looking lashes. Plus, the vegan serum claims to produce results within the first 30 days of using it.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum
The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum has a lightweight peptide-rich formula that promotes thicker, fuller, and healthier-looking lashes. It’s also been through an independent clinical efficacy study that delivered hair-raising results – in a positive way.
OLAPLEX LashBond Building Serum
OLAPLEX’s LashBond Building Serum is an extension of the brand’s hair care line. Taking care of the hair growing from your eyelids, this peptide-infused serum supports your lashes growth and strength. It’s also been through a consumer perception clinical study.
NULASTIN LASH Follicle Fortifying Serum With Elastaplex®
NULASTIN’s LASH Follicle Fortifying Serum With Elastaplex is a clinically studied product that reduces lash shedding and increases lash length. It works by using a protein-infused formula to positively impact the lash growth cycle.
Our editors love finding you the best products and offers! If you purchase something by clicking on one of the affiliate links on our website, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.