
What you need to know about lash growth serums
Devotees claim eyelash growth serums are the Holy Grail, giving you long, fluttery lashes that will have your friends wondering if you’re wearing falsies. It will probably come as no surprise that TikTok has been flooded with videos from users showing off their impressive transformations after several weeks of daily use, with 114m views under the search ‘lash growth serum’. There’s now a huge variety of products on the market – from big name beauty brands to companies that specialise in lashes and brows – and prices vary massively. But do they really work for everyone? Experts run through everything you need to know about lash-boosting serums… What is the science behind eyelash growth serums? All lash serums, whether they’re applied like eyeliner or with a mascara-style wand, are designed with essentially the same aim. “To promote the growth of natural lashes, resulting in longer and thicker lashes with regular use,” says Nima Pourian, founder of UKLash. “By nourishing and moisturising the lashes with ingredients like Panthenol, peptides, and biotin”, serums can “enhance the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream, leading to healthier and fuller lashes”. Some serums on the market contain hormones called prostaglandins – or a synthetic version – that extend the growth phase of the lash cycle, meaning the hairs get longer before they fall out. Others, such as The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum, use peptides to achieve the same aim without hormones. Gabriella Elio, founder of Sweed Beauty, came up with a hormone-free serum after learning some people can “get allergic reactions, pigmentations and are sensitive to serums since they contain prostaglandins”. As with any new beauty product you’re trying, it’s sensible to perform a patch test first. “Although reactions are rare, the eye area can be sensitive, so it’s best to check for any sensitivity beforehand,” says Pourian. “Apply a small amount of the serum to a small area, such as a corner of the forehead, behind the ear, or the side of the neck. Wait approximately 24 hours to observe any skin sensitivity.” It’s particularly important to be careful with products used so close to the eyes, so do your research and buy from a reputable retailer. How long does it take to see results? “The time it takes to see results may vary individually, depending on the stage of the lash growth cycle when the serum is started,” says Pourian. “That’s why it is recommended to use eyelash and eyebrow serums once a day for eight to 12 weeks, which aligns with a full growth cycle.” You’ll have to be patient, because you can’t simply double up to get lengthy lashes twice as fast. “It is crucial to follow the instructions provided with the serum and avoid overuse,” he continues. “Like any other topical skincare product, proper usage and adherence to the recommended application frequency will ensure the best results.” Do you have to keep using the serum forever? “If you discontinue using the product your lashes will continue to go through their natural growth and shedding phases,” says Claire Larsen, global master educator at RevitaLash Cosmetics. “So the new lashes that come back in will be untreated and will appear the way they originally did before starting your lash serum. If you love the results, you are a lifer!” However, you can reduce the frequency of use once you reach the maintenance phase. Pourian advises: “Once you have achieved your desired results, it is recommended to use the lash serum three to four times a week to maintain the length and health of your lashes.” Are there any reasons why a serum might not work? Proper application is key to making sure the serum can get to work quickly and effectively. “If the serum is not applied properly, such as being applied like mascara instead of reaching the roots and hair follicles, it may not yield desired results,” says Pourian. “It’s important to avoid using other products like oil-based cleansers or serums before applying the lash serum, as they can create a barrier, preventing proper absorption.” And remember, you’ve got to be consistent with daily use for at least a few weeks before you’ll see a noticeable difference. “Certain medical conditions, health issues, hormonal changes and lifestyle factors can influence the results of lash serums,” Pourian adds, meaning your lashes might not reach TikTok-worthy proportions, or may take longer to do so. “Genetics also play a role, as individuals naturally have different hair, lash, or brow growth genetics. This doesn’t mean the serum won’t work at all, but it may result in less significant outcomes.” Go long: 8 highly-rated lash serums to try 1. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum, £12.40, LookFantastic 2. L’Oreal Paris Clinically Proven Lash Serum, £11.99 (was £14.99), Superdrug 3. Mavala Double Lash Night Treatment, £17.50, Boots 4. UKLash Eyelash Serum, £37.99 5. RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum, £39.99, Escentual 6. Sweed Beauty Eyelash Growth Serum, £42 7. Olaplex Lashbond Building Serum, £64 8. RevitaLash Advanced Sensitive Eyelash Conditioner, £109 Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Sex Education star Patricia Allison: I’ve learned boundaries are extremely important Non-binary influencers share what they wish people understood about their experience Camilla will not receive £360,000 annuity from parliament like Prince Philip did
2023-07-14 16:47

Why Summer Heat Is More Likely to Ground Your Flight Than Cold Weather
The summer travel season got a rocky start in late June when thunderstorms, coupled with airport staff shortages
2023-07-14 16:46

Burberry Sales Rise 18% as China Rebounds for Luxury Brand
Burberry Group Plc sales rose at the fastest rate in two years after the trench-coat maker benefited from
2023-07-14 14:59

London’s First Alcohol-Free Beverage Store Pushes Back on UK’s Binge Culture
From the outside, Club Soda looks like any number of London liquor stores with row after row of
2023-07-14 14:27

For a group of Ukrainian women, painting is a form of therapy to help them cope with loss
For some Ukrainian women, painting has become a form of therapy to help them cope with the loss of their partners who died in the war
2023-07-14 14:22

Cathay Pacific Forecasts Bumper Profit With Bonuses for Staff
Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. said it will provide bonuses of up to six weeks pay to employees after
2023-07-14 13:56

HK's Cathay Pacific expects up to $576 million first-half profit on strong demand
(Reuters) -Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways on Friday said it expects to record half-year profit attributable up to HK$4.5 billion
2023-07-14 13:28

Iowa's restrictive abortion measure faces legal challenge as governor prepares to sign it into law
An Iowa judge will consider a request to postpone the state’s new ban on most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy, just as Gov. Kim Reynolds is scheduled to sign the measure into law
2023-07-14 13:28

Online, 'unalive' means death or suicide. Experts say it might help kids discuss those things
The word “unalive” to refer to death by suicide or homicide was coined by social media users as a way to fool algorithms on sites and apps that censor posts containing violent content
2023-07-14 13:18

Thailand’s PM Race Can Take a Whole New Turn, Here’s How
After failing to win over Thai conservatives in his first attempt to become prime minister, things are looking
2023-07-14 12:57

Soaring Carrots Drive Cost of French Coq au Vin to New High
The cost of ingredients to make a traditional French coq au vin rose again in June, defying a
2023-07-14 12:28

Passport, Money, AirTag? Why Luggage Woes Are Back
After returning to New York from Oslo in late May, Harley Hendrix noticed her suitcase containing a cherished
2023-07-14 12:18