What Are Eyelash Serums and What Do They Do?

As the old proverb goes: ‘eyes are the windows to the soul’. This may be why everyone puts an extensive amount of time and effort into accentuating the appearance of their eyes and making them as magnetizing as possible. After the outbreak of COVID-19 left us with masks covering half the face, many began stepping up their eye makeup game. But even before the pandemic, eye makeup was still one of the most sought-after beauty products. Let’s talk about eyelash serums!

Although eyelashes take up only a tiny portion of our body, there is a wide array of products and beauty treatments to make them appear fuller, longer and thicker. But, let’s be real, volumizing mascara can only do so much, and not everyone has the cash for an eyelash extension appointment every month. Fortunately, we’re living in an era where eyelash serums exist. They are becoming more and more popular these days. Now the question is, can eyelash serums be of any help to achieve the perfect set of full, long lashes? Keep reading and prepare to be wowed!

What is an eyelash serum?

It’s a formulation that stimulates eyelash growth. But what’s so interesting about it? It began as an unintended adverse reaction of a prostaglandin analogue eye drop used for the treatment of glaucoma and other ocular diseases. While the medication leads to the eyelash growth, it may also cause cataracts, ocular dryness, pruritus, iris pigmentation, conjunctival hyperemia and so on. I know, sounds like bad news, right? Knowing the side effects, it seems like people wouldn’t risk them just for the sake of long and luscious eyelashes. However, due to the potential aesthetic benefits, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries began to develop and test safer alternatives to help create thicker, fuller and longer lashes.

What ingredients are in an eyelash serum?

Nowadays, you can get prescription eyelash serums with prostaglandin analogues approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There are also some over-the-counter (OTC) products that contain prostaglandin analogues. The most commonly used you can find on the ingredient list is isopropyl cloprostenate. That being said, it is advised to approach prostaglandin-containing products with caution and consult with an ophthalmologist beforehand.

Say you want to opt for serums without prostaglandin? Good news for you! There are many alternatives on the market for you to try. Formulas vary from brand to brand, but they usually contain a blend of ingredients like peptides, vitamins (i.e. biotin, panthenol), botanical extracts (i.e. green tea, houttuynia cordata), and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients are backed by research for their ability to strengthen the lash, enhance thickness and length, as well as promote overall lash health and appearance.

How long does it take for an eyelash serum to show visible results?  

The key to using eyelash serums (or any skincare products, really) is to be patient and consistent. It won’t magically show its result after a single use. Most eyelash serums take at least 30-45 days to start showing full effects. However, the effects will run its course once you stop using the serums.

Why and who should give them a try?

If you find yourself applying mascara or artificial eyelashes (aka falsies) on a daily basis, or even regularly getting lash lifts or eyelash extensions, try giving eyelash serums a go. Although beauty products and treatments are generally safe, side effects are sometimes inevitable. These include: breakage and fall of your precious lashes, as well as irritation or infection. The benefits can be great though, so do yourself a favor and try eyelash serums as soon as possible.

Tips

  • Do patch-testing before trying out an eyelash serum to make sure there’s no allergic reaction.
  • Apply eyelash serum to your eyebrows as well–it can work just as effectively to add fullness to your brows.
  • Be realistic with the result. It is unlikely you’ll get the same full, thick lashes possible with falsies or extensions, but the products will help make your lashes strong and hydrated.

Product Recommendation

Say hello to Benton Honest Eyelash Serum, the tender loving care your lashes need. This serum is packed with a blend of amazing ingredients to help nourish and fortify your lashes such as peptides, amino acids, sodium hyaluronate, as well as green tea and houttuynia cordata extracts. It comes with a handy dual end brush to ensure that your lashes are thoroughly coated from root to tip. Are you ready for stronger and fuller-looking lashes?

Stay Tuned with Picky

There’s a lot in store this month, especially when it comes to eye serums! So make sure you’re tuned in to Picky’s socials: Instagram, YouTube, TikTok for upcoming events, challenges and -of course- skinformation!

Created With

Dr. Stella
Doctor
@stellamarselie

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