If you weren’t born with naturally lush lashes, extensions may not be your only option. You hear people talk about the wonder of these products giving up their lash extensions completely seemingly an impossible task for some and crediting eyelash growth serums for their luscious lashes that flutter like butterfly wings. But if we’re going to add this little product into our routines we need to know exactly what eyelash growth serums do and how they work.
Eyelash serums are shown to work for patients who suffer from Hypotrichosis or thin, inadequate eyelashes. They’re also widely used by those who want to enhance their normal eyelashes. These products can create long, lush lashes that don’t need mascara to look beautiful. A myriad of products is on the market and some work while others don’t. Many are simply conditioners that help prevent eyelashes from falling out or breaking. Most eyelash-growing products are available in stores or online, which requires a doctor’s prescription.
Applying eye serum to the eyelid can also cause hyperpigmentation (or darkening) of the eyelid skin and in some cases hyperpigmentation of the iris especially in patients with hazel or green eyes. And while most cases of eyelid hyperpigmentation will reverse over time after discontinuing the product, the same can’t be said for your irises. So if you’re very attached to the exact color of your eyes right now, proceed with caution.
Many eyelash growing products work to thicken eyelashes and are generally considered to be safe. But if you’ve tried over-the-counter eyelash growing products and are thinking about asking your doctor for a prescription, make sure you know the potential risks:
- Itchy, red eyes
- Unwanted hair growth in areas the product repeatedly touches
- Darkening of the eyelids
- Reduced eye pressure, which could mask glaucoma
- Permanently increased iris pigmentation, which could irreversibly turn your light eyes brown, especially if your irises are hazel or green
For best results find a formula that contains biotin, peptides, or lipids. Biotin is a B vitamin and helps lashes grow longer and thicker and stimulates the growth of additional eyelash follicles. Lipids condition and moisturises the lashes, while peptides specifically act on the skin cells of lashes to create a healthier foundation and boosts volume. You can see localised skin reactions, which are an allergy to the serum itself. Some people can get excess growth they don’t want along the lid, and even in the eyebrow region. Always be careful and allow the minimal application to the lash line, and suggests wiping any excess liquid off the skin afterward. Otherwise, it is possible that your eyelashes will grow to be so luxurious that they become heavy, causing the eyelid to droop.
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Photo credits: FragranceNet.com and Zilingo
