How Eyelash Serum Works
Updated: Sep 21, 2022
There’s no question about it. We’ve been looking for ways to make our eyelashes look thicker and longer since we’ve had eyelashes in the first place! While a quick lesson on evolution will tell you that eyelashes have a certain length to keep our eyes from drying out and act as our first line of defense against airborne debris, we can also appreciate the aesthetic beauty of full, and vibrant eyelashes. So what exactly is eyelash serum?
Here’s the rundown on eyelash serum
Eyelash serum is a beauty product for eyelashes that purportedly makes natural lashes thicker and longer. Eyelash serum is a popular alternative to eyelash extensions. Common ingredients in lash growth serums include hyaluronic acid, panthenol, biotin (vitamin B7), pumpkin seed extract, peptides, and castor oil.
But how does it work?
Eyelash serum stimulates hair follicles to promote growth. The common active ingredients stimulate hair growth and moisturize and hydrate the lashes to prevent breakage, and extend the resting phase of your eyelash’s growth cycle. As for the application of the serum itself, it couldn’t be easier! Let’s walk through real quick, and then we can talk about best practices.
How to apply eyelash serum
It all starts with regular skincare - Of course we’re going to start with makeup removal, but it goes much deeper than that. You need to wash your face with a cleanser to remove dirt and oil as well. When your skin is clean, the serum will adhere to your lash line with ease.
Apply the serum - Eyelash serum usually comes with a brush or applicator (similar to a mascara wand). You can also use a cotton swab (but when in doubt, read the packaging for best practices). At this point apply the serum in a single thin layer to your upper lash line at the root of your eyelashes starting from the inner corner of your eye to the outer corner.
Repeat! - This one's self explanatory! If you’ve successfully accomplished the first two steps, then repeat for your other eye, and you’re all set.
Best Practices
We know nobody likes being lectured, but sometimes it’s good to be sat down and walked through the do’s and don’ts for our own safety! This is even true for cosmetic products. Think about it, if nobody told you to keep your head back while washing your hair, you’d find out the hard way how much it stings when it gets in your eyes. We’re just looking out for you!
Apply the eyelash serum according to instructions - Don’t overdo it! Applying excess serum will not make your eyelashes grow faster. Generally speaking, this is a once or twice a day routine. But when in doubt, read the label!
Avoid the lower lash line - Nobody likes eye irritation, and getting serum in your lower lash line will do just that. Eyelash serum is virtually harmless if used correctly, but can block ducts in your eyes and cause further irritation if used incorrectly.
Let the serum dry - If eyeliner is part of your regular makeup routine, you want to be sure that the eyelash serum dries fully (about five minutes) before applying any makeup. This isn’t necessarily a safety issue, but something you want to be mindful of, especially if you’re using your good eyeliner! We don’t want to waste any product if we could avoid it.
Regular use will give you regular results - Some eyelash serums do not work overnight. In fact, they can take weeks or months of regular use for you to notice results. Additionally, suddenly stopping use of eyelash serum will stifle your progress.
Do I need a prescription?
While most cosmetic stores and pharmacies sell over the counter eyelash serums, they are not guaranteed to give you the results you’re working for. In fact the general consensus is that over the counter eyelash serums, while known to aid in the overall health of your lashes, are not approved by the FDA to grow stronger, longer, or darker lashes. If you’re looking for the whole package deal, a prescription will be necessary. If you’re thinking about looking into prescription eyelash serum, schedule a telehealth meeting, and speak to a licensed medical professional now!