Want to learn how to grow your eyelashes to look longer, fuller and thicker? Welcome to the club. Eyelash growth is an amazingly complex process that is heavily influenced by genetics. But you don’t have to let that limit you!
In this post, we cover all the really effective methods to stimulate eyelash growth. We’ll also explain the pitfalls that can cause your lashes to fall out so you can help your lashes thrive.
4 proven ways to grow eyelashes
Eyelash growth tips and tricks abound, but real and tried-and-true methods are few. These are the best ways to improve your eyelash growth.
Method 1: Use an eyelash serum
Whether you’re recovering from eyelash loss or trying to get a little extra boost, eyelash serums are your best bet for eyelash growth. They are very affordable and can create truly amazing results! There are few main types active lash serum ingredients out there, such as:
- Natural formulas with plant extracts such as red clove, pine wood or bean. These ingredients are often best researched for hair growth, but brand-sponsored studies show they can also boost eyelash length and density.
- Peptides are tiny chains of amino acids that are usually part of branded complexes such as Capixyl or Sympeptide Xlash. These cell-communicating ingredients are thought to target dermal papillae in a way that stimulates keratin production.
- Prostaglandin analogues such as isopropyl cloprostenate prolonging the period of eyelash growth. These ingredients are quite controversial as they may be associated with similar side effects to prescription eyelash growth products.
Our eyelashes go through phases of growth, rest and shedding which play an important role in the fullness of the lash line and the length of the eyelashes. Eyelash serums work by actively inhibiting the processes that cause eyelashes to fall out while helping to extend the growth phase.
This is why they can make eyelashes look longer and thicker, while also visibly improving the density of the lash line. Some formulas also condition the skin and lashes to keep them strong and prevent breakage.
To see results, it is important to use an eyelash serum daily and even twice a day. Make sure your eyes are clean and apply the serum right on the lash line like eyeliner.
Depending on the product, you can expect to see results within a few weeks. Some serums can have very dramatic effects – especially those containing prostaglandin analogues. Remember that once you stop using an eyelash serum, your eyelashes will likely return to normal within a similar period.
Method 2: Carefully consider a prescription eyelash treatment
Prescription eyelash growth products like Latisse take eyelash growth to the next level. The active ingredient in them is bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog. It is the only FDA approved eyelash growth drug currently on the market.
Bimatoprost was originally available as a treatment for glaucoma, helping to relieve eye pressure. It was soon discovered that this ingredient can also make eyelashes grow longer, extending the growth phase.
Although it is highly effective, bimatoprost also has potential side effects. Eye irritation (hyperemia) is the most common, followed by pigmentation changes. Recently, cases have been recorded loss of fat around the eyes, which usually becomes apparent after long periods of consistent use. It can lead to a sunken look that many find not worth lash enhancement.
Way 3: Diet
The production of healthy hair and eyelashes depends on the body access to nutritionespecially proteins (eyelashes, like other hairs, are made up of a protein called keratin and various micronutrients. If your diet is lacking, a nutritional adjustment may be the key to giving your eyelashes the boost they need.
A great diet for healthy eyelashes isn’t just about eating specific nutrients. Moreso, it’s about making sure you don’t have big gaps and that you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs. It is also important to eat enough, and especially enough protein.
Way 4: Supplements
Beauty supplements are an increasingly popular option for anyone looking to boost their eyelash growth. The most popular ingredient in beauty supplements is biotin, but other ingredients you may come across include zinc, B vitamins, collagen, selenium, vitamin C, iron, and more.
While many of these ingredients are associated with improving hair growth, it is important to remember that science is not rigorous. There is no high-quality research on taking supplements for eyelash growth, but many people notice results after starting a multivitamin.
It is possible that a supplement can make a difference, especially if you think you may have a nutritional deficiency. Consider talking to a doctor to determine if a supplement might be right for you.
What not to do for longer, healthier eyelashes
When figuring out how to improve your eyelash growth, knowing what not to do is just as important. Some small habits and mistakes can damage your eyelashes. By avoiding them, you may find that your eyelashes can grow long and healthy on their own.
Do not rub or pull
It can be hard not to rub your eyes when you’re sleepy, but this is a pretty significant source of lash line trauma. When rubbing, this sideways motion can effectively pull out lashes that weren’t ready to shed yet, so you end up with sparse areas.
Don’t sleep on your stomach
When you sleep on your stomach, you inevitably end up with your face and eyes pressed against the pillow. Even soft pillowcases are still made of fibers, which leads to friction on the lash line.
If you sleep on your back, you probably find a few eyelashes on your pillowcase every morning – sleeping on your back will help keep them intact. There are a few other ways to get around the problem, such as using a silk pillowcase or wearing a dome eye mask.
Don’t neglect your health
The appearance of your eyelashes is largely genetic, but your health still plays a role. A poor diet won’t provide your body with the nutrients it needs to grow hair, while a lack of sleep can create hormones that suppress hair and eyelash growth.
Following our tips on how to grow eyelashes will help, but prioritizing your well-being is just as important. Mental health is also important, especially if you’re prone to batting your eyelashes when you’re nervous or stressed.
A thin lash line can sometimes be a symptom of other health conditions. If you are experiencing abnormal eyelash loss, be sure to talk to your doctor so you can seek a proper diagnosis.
Do not remove the mascara with water
Another thing that can damage your lashes is trying to remove mascara with water (except for washable mascaras). Most mascaras are designed to resist water, even if they aren’t officially waterproof. On the other hand, oil melts them instantly and helps maintain your lashes.
Don’t put too much faith in DIY
From castor oil to aloe vera, there are endless suggestions for natural or DIY recipes that can help with eyelash growth. However, home remedies are not formulated or studied in the same way as eyelash serums. Using castor oil for eyelash growth it’s probably the most popular DIY recommendation, but for every person who sees results, another won’t.
The natural lash growth ingredients you’ll actually find in serums have some scientific backing and are combined in formulas designed to penetrate the lash line. Brands usually conduct their own studies to ensure their products work.
If you still want to try a super excited DIY eyelash growth hack, that’s totally fine. It’s just important to keep realistic expectations. For your own safety, skip homemade preparations that include essential oils (they can be sensitizing). Don’t leave your DIY remedies at room temperature, where bacteria can breed.
Additional tips for healthy eyelashes
We’ve got a few more tips to make sure you’re giving your lashes the best chance to grow. These aren’t necessarily game changers, but they are great habits!
- Keep them clean: Don’t underestimate the importance of washing your eyelashes! Pathogens can damage your hair follicles and lead to eyelash loss, so always remove your makeup thoroughly and wash your lashes with a special eyelash cleanser if you’re prone to plugs or eye irritation.
- Take makeup breaks: Wearing mascara frequently can lead to lash loss, so try to give your lashes a break as often as possible.
- Hydration: Your hair benefits from the treatment and so do your lashes! Light eye cream or oil on your lash line can be beneficial if you clean the area regularly.
- Try the extensions: Options like professional and DIY eyelash extensions is an easy way to dramatically improve your lash line, far beyond what you could grow naturally.
- But be careful with professional services: Improper technique during eyelash extension or lift services can lead to eyelash loss, as can improper removal of extensions and false eyelashes. Choose your providers carefully to avoid problems.
Luscious eyelashes await you
When figuring out how to grow your eyelashes, we think it’s best to start with the basics – taking great care of your eyelashes and your body as a whole. Other than that, eyelash serums and treatments are the best option as they can actively stimulate your eyelash follicles, helping them reach their full potential. That said, it’s just important to know the science behind the ingredients and their potential side effects so you can choose the best formula for you.