11 Eyelash Serums To Help Lashes Grow and Appear Longer
Consider these an assist in your quest for wispy lashes.
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It's totally possible to turn your dreams of having long fluttery eyelashes into a reality. You can use viral TikTok hacks to apply falsies, get full, voluminous arches with profesh-level extensions, and load on layers of volumizing mascara for the plushest lashes of your life. While those options are helpful in making your lash appear longer for short periods of time, you can enhance your natural lashes more permanently with eyelash serums.
How does eyelash serum work?
Often enriched with hydrating and hair-strengthening ingredients, the best eyelash serums make your lashes stronger, darker and appear fuller. Even better, some are even available over the counter without a prescription from your doctor. The key to finding the right eyelash serum that works best for you all boils down to what your lashes need. There's only one formula that's been clinically approved by the FDA to promote growth, and it's Latisse. Other formulas condition lash hairs so that, much like the hair on your head, they are less likely to break and shed. Eyelash serums can even by those with allergies and sensitivities often triggered by ingredients commonly found in beauty must-haves. Ingredients like "vitamins, collagen, and peptides to condition, strengthen, and promote growth," Hilary Clark, licensed esthetician, founder, and president of holistic skincare brand Beauty HAC says.
How long do eyelash serums take to work?
Using eyelash serums to promote lash health and growth doesn't happen overnight. Dr. Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist and Visha skincare founder, says that prostaglandin (PGA)-laced serums like Latisse can garner results in up to four weeks, while non-PGA serums can see results in 8 to 12 weeks. Properly hydrating the lashes can "have a positive effect on the health of the skin and appearance of the lashes, making them appear more bulky and full," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nava Greenfield.
What should you avoid when shopping for lash serums?
Eyelash serums improve the appearance and length of lashes, but they can also irritate sensitive skin. Steer clear of serums with edible ingredients like coconut and olive oil, as they can grow bacteria that can lead to eye infections and styes. And as with any new product, do a swatch test first to see how your skin will react. Dr. Greenfield suggests applying a very thin layer in the corner of the eyelash to see how your skin responds. If you notice irritation, immediately discontinue use and have your dermatologist give the area a look.
What are the best eyelash serums?
Read ahead for the best eyelash serums that condition and strengthen lashes, leading to lashes that appear longer and fuller.
Jasmine Washington is an Assistant Editor at Seventeen, where she covers celebrity news, beauty, lifestyle, and more. For the past decade, she has worked for media outlets, including BET, MadameNoire, VH1, and many others, where she used her voice to tell stories across various verticals. Follow her on Instagram.
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