Do Lash Serums Really Work?

From celebrities to beauty influencers, everyone seems to be raving about eyelash serums. We’ve all seen some crazy before and after photos, but do they really work? Are they worth the hype? And are there any dangerous side effects from using lash serums? Let’s take a closer look to see if you should ditch your mascara for a lash serum.

Can Lash Serums Be Used to Treat Alopecia?

Lash serums are primarily formulated to enhance the growth and appearance of already existing eyelashes. While they may contain ingredients that promote hair growth, they are not specifically designed to treat alopecia, a condition that can result in hair loss on the scalp or other parts of the body. There are many causes of alopecia, and it should be considered a complex medical condition with various underlying causes that requires care from a physician. Depending on the causes, treatments for alopecia can involve medications, topical solutions, and sometimes surgical procedures, depending on the type and severity of alopecia. Therefore, over-the-counter lash serums should not be relied upon as a sole or effective treatment for alopecia -- unless recommended by your doctor. Anyone experiencing hair loss due to alopecia, should consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to their specific condition.

Is Lash Serum Bad for Your Eyes?

When used correctly and following the manufacturer's instructions, eyelash serums are safe to use. However, it's important to be cautious and aware of any potential adverse reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin. Some lash serums may cause temporary side effects such as redness, itchiness, or irritation.

Additionally, for lash serums that contain prostaglandin analogs, some users have reported side effects with their irises getting darker and appearing stained. While this is a medically bening side effect, it is startling to many users, leading them to stop using the serum. If this is a concern for you, when you’re selecting a lash serum look for active ingredients that do not include prostaglandins. And, as recommended, avoid getting the serum directly into your eyes, as this could lead to irritation or other problems.

In my personal opinion, unless it has been recommended to you by a doctor, I would avoid lash serums with prostaglandins as you need someone to monitor the response, explain what it does and does not mean, and adjust their recommendations, which can change based on your natural eye color. My preference is eyelash growth serum that contains a combination of peptides for growth, with vitamins and botanics to nourish and support the lashes to prevent them from breaking.

How to Apply a Lash Serum

When applying a lash serum, it's important to follow the instructions carefully. Typically, you would start by removing any makeup and ensuring that your lashes are clean and dry. Then, using the applicator brush provided, you would carefully apply the serum along the upper lash line, avoiding contact with the eyes. It's best to apply the serum at night, before bed, to allow it to work its magic while you sleep.

For best results, use the lash serum daily.

In short, eyelash serums do work! You just need to find the ones with the right ingredients. We would suggest only using a serums with prostaglandin if you have been specifically instructed to do so by your doctor, and if you are aware of the potential iris staining side effects. If you - understandably so - are looking for a serum that doesn't have these side effects, a combination of nourishin botanics and peptides as the active ingredients in the serum will reduce breakage to give your lashes the boost you want.