This is the truth about eyelash serums
EYELASH REMEDIES have been viewed millions of times on TikTok and are endorsed by celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Meghan Markle.
In the past, eyelash serums were mainly available by prescription, but today some eyelash serums cost less than a tenner as the demand for longer, thicker lashes continues to grow in the beauty world.
6
“Over the past four years, women have really started to focus on enhancing their natural beauty – why wear fake lashes when you can grow them yourself?” says Emmy Kleitonexpert eyelash and eyebrow stylist.
Black, spidery lashes are out, as the “naked lash” trend grows. “Women want products that promote natural growth because they fit into this health-conscious beauty philosophy – just look at the rise in hair supplements and the decline in extensions,” adds Emmy.
Millennials are the biggest consumers, with over 45% admitting to regularly using eyelash extension products, while demand among men is growing by 20% each year.*
“There are two types of eyelash serums: those that use prostaglandin analogues and those that use peptides, fatty acids or vitamins to strengthen the lashes,” says Nicola Alexander-Cross, optometrist and founder of the eye care brand Peep club.
Prostaglandin analogues, synthetic hormones originally formulated to treat glaucoma, accelerate the lash growth cycle. While serums containing this ingredient can be effective, they can also promote weak, coarse lashes by focusing on lengthening rather than strengthening.
“The key is to look for ‘prost’ or isopropyl cloprostenate in the ingredients list,” says ophthalmologic and oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Rachna MurthyFormulas containing peptides, fatty acids or vitamins strengthen and improve the quality of the eyelashes.
However, some formulas have come under fire as experts question the safety and legitimacy of their extravagant claims.
While both types of serums can produce good results, it’s important to choose a formula that will both grow and nourish your lashes, and to follow the instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
We scoured social media to find the most common questions about eyelash serums…
Can eyelash serums darken my eyelids?
“Using a serum with prostaglandin analogues can increase melanin production in the skin, leading to hyperpigmentation at the site of application. This discoloration is usually reversible when you stop using the product,” says cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Nora Jaafar.
Will applying eyelash serum change the color of my eyes?
“Prostaglandin analogues can also increase melanin in the iris, resulting in a darker eye colour over time. Although rare and unlikely to happen if you follow the instructions, this change is permanent and people with lighter eye colours are at greater risk,” says Dr. Jaafar.
Do eyelash serums cause oil loss around the eyes?
“Prostaglandin analogues have been linked to a reduction in fat cells on the eyelid and under the eyes. However, most studies have been conducted on people who have used eyelash serums for longer than six months. So you can reduce the risk by only using the product for the recommended time,” says Nicola.
What is the trend of ‘eyebrow blindness’?
You may have seen the term “eyebrow blindness” before
The term ‘trending’ is used by people referring to their previous looks, which they thought were trendy at the time, but which in retrospect turned out to be a total failure.
While big, full brows are currently in fashion, thin, sculpted brows were more popular in the 90s.
Many people regret over-plucking their eyebrows and leaving them thin.
The term “blindness” is also used to refer to other aspects of appearance that people regret, such as huge fake eyelashes, shifted fillers, or patchy, overexposed fake tan.
Are eyelash serums suitable for sensitive skin and eyes?
“Eyelash serums can contain ingredients that can act as allergens, leading to dry, sensitive eyes, and some serums can irritate if applied too close to the lash line. However, many serums are designed with sensitive skin in mind and can help your lashes grow if used correctly,” says Dr. Murthy. A soothing, hydrating eye balm such as Peep Club Eye Rescue Lidstick, £15, can also provide relief for dry, sensitive eyes.
6
Peep Club Eye Rescue Eyelid Stick, £15
Express treatments
6
No7 Age Defying All-In-One Serum Mascara, £15.95
If you’re still not convinced about lash serums – or are too impatient to wait for results – there are alternatives. Switching to a serum mascara, which contains strengthening peptides or vitamins, is an effortless way to maintain the health of your lashes – try No7 Age Defying All-In-One Serum Mascara, £15.95.
“Alternatively, eyelash tint can give the impression of thicker, fuller lashes, greatly enhancing your natural lashes. Plus, kits like Eylure Pro Dylash Lash, £10, make it easy to get started yourself,” says Emmy.
Salon treatments such as LVL, which lifts and tints your lashes for up to eight weeks, have also become more popular, but they cost up to £70.
An effective, temporary alternative is individual press-on lashes, such as Kiss Impress Falsies Press-on False Lash Kit, £19.99. These are easy to adjust and don’t require the hassle of using glue.
TRIED AND TESTED
The Fabulous team tried a number of leading brands and the results were mixed, but these products convinced us.
A BEAUTY WRITER’S CHOICE
6
Vegamour Gro eyelash serum, £68
“I applied this daily to my lower lash line, since I usually don’t wear mascara there, and I noticed a difference after just two weeks. I thought my lashes looked fuller and thicker,” says Beauty Writer Mia Lyndon.
FASHION DIRECTOR’S CHOICE
6
UKLash Eyelash Serum, £38
“After using this on my short lashes for four weeks, they were longer and thicker, meaning I could easily curl them again. Even my daughter noticed the difference!” says Fashion Director Tracey Lea Sayer.
CHOICE OF AN INTERN BEAUTY PROJECT
6
Glow For it Lash Growth Serum, £29
“I started noticing that my lashes looked fuller after three weeks. The applicator is small and precise, meaning the product reaches all lashes with ease,” says Beauty Intern Anjali Mawi.
Source: *Scottmax.com
