EYELASH serums have racked up millions of TikTok views and received celeb endorsements from the likes of Kim Kardashian and Meghan Markle.
Once primarily prescription-based, some lash serums now cost less than a tenner, as the demand for longer, thicker lashes continues to rise in the beauty world.
“Over the last four years, women have really started focusing on enhancing their natural beauty – why have fake lashes when you can grow your own?” says Emmy Clayton, expert lash and brow artist.
Black, spidery lashes are out, as the “naked lash” trend grows. “Women want products that promote natural growth as they align with this health-conscious beauty ethos – just look at the increase in hair supplements and the decline in extensions,” adds Emmy.
Millennials are the biggest consumers, with more than 45% admitting they regularly use lash-enhancing products, while demand among men is growing by 20% every year.*
“There are two types of lash serums – those that use prostaglandin analogues and those that either use peptides, fatty acids or vitamins to help boost the lashes,” says Nicola Alexander-Cross, optometrist and founder of eyecare brand Peep Club.
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Prostaglandin analogues, synthetic hormones originally formulated to treat glaucoma, fast-tracks the lash-growth cycle. While serums containing this ingredient can be effective, they can also foster weaker, wiry lashes due to focusing on lengthening rather than strengthening.
“The key is to look for ‘prost’ or isopropyl cloprostenate in the ingredients list,” says ophthalmic and oculoplastic surgeon Dr Rachna Murthy. Formulas containing peptides, fatty acids or vitamins work by strengthening and improving lashes’ quality.
But some formulas have come under fire as experts question the safety and legitimacy of their extravagant claims.
While both types of serum can lead to good results, picking a formula that both grows and nourishes your lashes is important – as is following the instructions.
FAQs answered
We scoured social media to find the most common lash serum questions…
Can lash serums darken my eyelids?
“Using a serum containing prostaglandin analogues can increase melanin production in the skin, leading to hyperpigmentation where the serum is applied. This darkening is usually reversible when you stop using the product,” says cosmetic dermatologist Dr Nora Jaafar.
Will applying lash serum lead to a change in the colour of my eyes?
“Prostaglandin analogues can also increase melanin in the iris, resulting in a darker eye colour over time. While it’s rare, and unlikely to happen if you follow instructions, this change is permanent and those with lighter eye colours are more at risk,” says Dr Jaafar.
Do lash serums cause fat loss around the eye?
“Prostaglandin analogues have been linked to reduction in the fat cells on the eyelid and the under-eye area. However, most of the studies have been done on those who have used lash serums for over six months – so you can reduce the risk by only using the product for the recommended time,” says Nicola.
What is the 'eyebrow blindness' trend?
YOU may have seen the term "eyebrow blindness
The trending term is being used by people referring to their former looks, which they thought of as on-trend at the time but can see were a total fail now looking back.
While big bushy brows are trendy at the moment, thin, sculpted ones were more popular back in the 90s.
With many people regretting the fact they'd over-plucked their brows and left them so thin.
The 'blindness' term has also been used to refer to other parts of the appearance that people regret - such as massive fake lashes, migrated filler or patchy, overloaded fake tan.
Are lash serums compatible with sensitive skin and eyes?
“Lash serums can contain ingredients that may act as allergens, resulting in 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 when used correctly,” says Dr Murthy. A soothing, hydrating eye balm like Peep Club Eye Rescue Lidstick, £15, can also provide relief from dry, sensitised eyes.
Peep Club Eye Rescue Lidstick, £15
Express treatments
No7 Age Defying All-In-One Serum Mascara, £15.95
If you’re still not convinced by 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, lash tinting can give the appearance of thicker, fuller lashes, significantly enhancing your natural lashes – plus kits like Eylure Pro Dylash Lash, £10, make it easy to DIY,” says Emmy.
In-salon treatments, such as LVL, which lifts and tints your lashes for up to eight weeks, have also grown in popularity – but they cost up to £70.
An effective, temporary alternative is individual press-on lashes, like Kiss Impress Falsies Press-on False Lash Kit, £19.99, which can be adjusted easily and don’t require faffing with glue.
TRIED AND TESTED
The Fabulous team tried a few leading brands and the results were mixed, but these products won us over.
BEAUTY WRITER’S PICK
Vegamour Gro Lash Serum, £68
“I applied this to my lower lash line daily, as I tend to forgo mascara in that area, and I noticed a difference after just two weeks. I found my lashes looked denser and thicker,” says Beauty Writer Mia Lyndon.
FASHION DIRECTOR’S PICK
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.
BEAUTY INTERN’S PICK
Glow For it Lash Growth Serum, £29
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“I started noticing that my eyelashes looked fuller after three weeks. The applicator is small and precise, meaning the product reaches all lashes easily,” says Beauty Intern Anjali Mawi.
Source: *Scottmax.com