Want long, full lashes without the need for extensions or false lashes? It’s time to try an eyelash serum
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Simply put, eyelash serums are like skincare for your lashes. There was a time when eyelash serums were so niche, hardly anyone outside of the beauty industry had heard of them. But with the advent of new high-tech hormone-free formulas, these brush and pen applicators started to creep into the mainstream, lauded for their ability to coax new hairs into being and create a more voluminous, well-defined lash line.
How do lash serums work?
Like the hairs on your head, lashes have their own three-phase growth cycle that typically lasts 90 days. The anagen phase is the growth phase; during the catagen phase the lash stops growing and the final telogen phase marks the moment when the hair is shed and the growth cycle starts again.
According to Gabriella Elio, founder of Sweed, an eyelash serum will nourish lashes from root to tip in the catagen phase and slow down the growth phase, so that lashes stay looking longer and fuller for longer. To do just that, her wildly popular Eyelash Growth Serum deploys peptides (the building blocks of protein) and keratin (a protein found in lashes) to promote growth, while biotin and panthenol help to strengthen spindly lashes. Most formulas are infused with similar ingredients – some also include vitamin E and hyaluronic acid to condition and treat dry lashes.
Are eyelash serums safe?
While eyelash serums are safe to use, you should always read the label and be sure to speak to a medical practitioner if you’re nursing, pregnant, or have a medical condition (especially if you have eye issues). Generally, lash serums are crafted with the support of extensive research, testing, and trials, with some companies spending years formulating their serums. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to reactions from beauty products, be sure to complete a patch test before applying your serum of choice on your lashes.
What is the most effective eyelash serum?
It’s important to keep in mind that each lash serum (just like each set of lashes) is different, meaning that there is no exact time frame or result that can be promised. The most effective eyelash serum, however, is the one you remember to use! With many serums available for purchase, it's important that you choose the brand and product that is right for you. Results are dependent on continuous use, so be sure to follow instructions on the label to identify how frequently you should apply the serum. It will take a while to see a difference in your lashes, but after a few months the transformation should be clear, the reward will be worth the wait.
Read on to discover our top picks of the best serums on the market, and find the serum that’s right for you!
Here, a highly effective blend of active ingredients including vitamins, proteins and peptides, join forces in a vegan formula to promote longer and healthier lashes. According to the brand, you'll notice a change within four to six weeks when used daily, preferably one hour before bed.
This is perhaps the most universally known lash serum and a favourite amongst beauty editors, not least because of its moving back story. RevitaLash was born out of a loving husband’s quest to help his wife regain her confidence during cancer treatment. Dr. Brinkenhoff – an ophthalmologist for over 30 years – soon realised the potential of his formulation, which, like Sweed's Eyelash Growth Serum, keeps lashes in the growth phase for longer. The serum is charged with scientifically-advanced technology, most notably the High Impact BioPeptin Complex – a cocktail of peptides and botanicals – that saturates each strand to minimise the likelihood of breakage.
This serum delivers a double whammy: it can be used on eyelashes as well as eyebrows if they're looking sparse. Draw along your upper and lower lash lines, then apply short, hair-like strokes through your brows as you would with a brow pen and the formula's cannabis seed extract and peptides will get to work hydrating and making the hair more resilient.
We're calling this a hair mask – but for the lashes. The thicker formula, laced with hyaluronic acid, four different types of amino acid and the reparative plant extract cica, makes for an excellent overnight conditioning treatment for lashes in need of some TLC. The luxe packaging deserves a special mention, too, as it inspires you to use the product consistently for better results.
This drug-store favourite certainly packs a punch. Arginine is the hero here, an ingredient renowned for being a building block of keratin and collagen, both of which your body needs to keep lashes strong. Hyaluronic acid hydrates, while castor oil conditions the hair follicles with ricinoleic acid, which provides a better environment for lash growth.
Clinique has harnessed the power of conditioning vitamin E with growth-enhancing peptides and arginine to minimise fall out and premature shedding. It's worth leaning on this serum if you're taking a break from lash extensions to nourish the lashes you already have, which may have become more fragile in the process.
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Not only is Uklash’s serum approved by dermatologists, ophthalmologists, and trichologists, but it's won awards for its effectiveness. The vegan, cruelty free serum conditions and nourishes lashes as it stimulates growth, employing green tea extract and amino acid peptides to keep your lashes looking and feeling healthy.
Rapidlash’s formula for its enhancing serum is ultra-exclusive, mixing a unique blend of vitamins, oils, and extracts. The brand’s studies reveal overwhelmingly positive outcomes, with users extolling the fast-acting serum. Clearly a popular choice, this serum’s benefits all come down to its innovative blend of ingredients.
If you’re concerned about thinning or sparse lashes, Obagi Medical is the way to go. Its serum uses Nouriplex® Technology, a special mixture of biotin, panthenol, sodium hyaluronate, and a lipid compound. In layman's terms, the formula encourages keratin production, hydrates lashes, and improves texture when applied – what more could you ask for?
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Benefit’s Whoop Lash targets the health of your eyelashes, encouraging growth as you wear it overnight. The serum was created with sensitive eyes in mind, making it a gentle – yet effective – option for concerned shoppers. Using unique ingredients like rice protein, Whoop Lash will effortlessly pump up the volume on your lashes.
While Olaplex may be known for its hair care products, its foray into lash care marks an exciting expansion of the brand. The serum boasts properties that will not only make lashes longer and thicker, but help with hydration and strength. The ingredients converge to make lashes last longer, taking care of their long-term health.
Augustinus Bader’s serum is backed by over 30 years of research, resulting in a serum that does double duty, effective for both eyelashes and brows. The serum, which uses active ingredients alongside breakthrough technology, stimulates the lash follicles, building growth from the source. The result is a serum that supports eyelashes throughout their natural growth cycle, nourishing them each step of the way.
The Ordinary is famous for its results-driven products at affordable prices. This serum is no different, as the concentrated, lightweight formula promotes the appearance of high-volume lashes (and brows!). While The Ordinary employs multiple forms of lash-growth technology in their formula, they all work with the goal of hair health in mind.
Elizabeth Arden’s serum works both correctively and preventatively; it improves the health of damaged lashes (and brows) while providing care so that new growth can flourish without problems. The serum is constructed from vitamins and nutrients proven to have clinical efficacy, and is sure to make your lashes stronger and fuller.
Shiseido’s lash serum was developed with the individuality of their customers in mind. Acknowledging that each person’s eyelashes follow their own growth pattern, the brand’s team set out to find an ingredient that would benefit all. They found it in Ziziphus jujuba, an Asian fruit that was used by Shiseido technicians to lay the foundation of a formula that stimulates growth and repair.
The fine-tipped applicator of the Susanne Kaufman serum for lashes and brows enables precision as you apply their formula. With Alpine edelweiss bringing peptides into the mix, the density of your hair will improve - as will its health. This serum is especially gentle, making it suitable for all skin types.
Vegamour’s lash enhancing serum works with a vegan and cruelty-free formula, perfect for conscious consumers. The serum features plant actives that will boost the health of your lashes, promising luxurious results in an efficient timeframe. With their subscription service, lash care can become a healthy habit year-round.