If you haven’t yet noticed, eyelashes are having a major moment right now.
Technically, they have been over the past year or two when eyelash extensions blew up and became the de facto aesthetic here, but mandatory face mask rules have put more emphasis on the eyes than ever before.
For many, long and lush lashes are but a fantasy that only a trip to the extensions salon or a really good lengthening and volumising mascara can fulfill. But if you’re not someone who enjoys the feeling of having your lids weighed down by synthetic hairs and layers of product, you might want to consider turning to eyelash growth serums for a little boost instead.
If you’ve been a little skeptical about these, you’re not entirely wrong. Over-the-counter eyelash serums are usually designed to keep your lashes healthier and stronger for longer over their growth phase, but can’t technically make them grow. Because they reduce premature breakage and shedding, your lashes end up being longer and fuller than what you’re used to seeing. If you’re really serious about growth though, your best option would be prescription-only Latisse, the only product in the market now that’s science-backed to actually stimulate growth.
Regardless of which you choose, patience is the only thing standing in your way because — like many other skincare products — results take time. Get into the habit of applying these babies religiously and with any luck, you might just be able to ditch extensions and go au naturel for good.
Here are some of the best eyelash growth serums to try today.
Latisse
We’ll start with the OG of eyelash growth serums. The FDA-approved — and now HSA-approved locally — formula is first and only lash growth treatment for hypotrichosis – a condition known as having inadequate or insufficient eyelashes. Originally a glaucoma drug in eye drop form called Lumigan, the product gained fame after patients found that they also developed fuller, darker eyelashes over time.
Research suggests that it stimulates the hair cells to go into a growth cycle when they would normally be in a hibernation state, resulting in much lusher and longer lashes over time. The prescription-only product is administered by applying a drop to your upper lid with an applicator, and must be used daily for at least two months for any results at all.
Browhaus Extend Lash & Brow Growth Serum
First launched in 2011, Browhaus’ first and only eyelash and brow serum has just been given an upgrade with a new formula that promises longer, fuller, stronger lashes and brows in four to six weeks. Enriched with panax ginseng root extract and grape seed extract, the gentle but powerful growth booster stimulates hair follicles while strengthening and conditioning each strand from root to tip.
Dermatologically-tested and suitable for those with sensitive skin, it works best when applied along the root of the upper lash line and brows once a day on cleansed face before bedtime, and allowing a couple of minutes for absorption before proceeding with your usual skincare routine. Three weeks into incorporating the serum in her daily beauty regimen, our reviewer reports tougher, slightly longer lashes and brows that withstand unconscious eye-rubs.
Shiseido Full Lash Serum
Packed with arginine, an amino acid that can help promote hair growth and thickness, this serum sees a dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-approved formula that can be applied both to the lashes and brows for a fuller, healthier look. The flocked-tip applicator makes it easy to comfortably reach small areas between lashes and into the lash line. Expect the conditioning and hydrating formula to lengthen, fill and strengthen lashes considerably after four months.
RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
This ophthalmologist-developed lash conditioner promises to take your lashes to dramatic new heights with its unique BioPeptin Complex, a proprietary technology that counts peptides, biotin, lipids, and green tea extract rich in panthenol to help condition, strengthen, and soften eyelashes while preventing premature breakage and brittleness. Amino acids and B vitamins also fortify the lashes. The advanced formula stays put without running and takes just one swipe to fully coat lashes, with results showing after three to four months.
Lashfood Phyto-Medic Eyelash Enhancer
Besides being infused with Phyto-Medic Complex — a blend of medicinal herb extracts — this eyelash enhancing serum also contains arginine, lavender water, and soy protein to keep your precious strands strong and healthy. Lavender water contains anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to detoxify and invigorate lashes, while soy protein also naturally strengthens and conditions. The formula is created by a team of cosmetic scientists, and is effective enough for results without requiring a prescription.
Vichy Livactiv Serum 10 Eyes & Lashes
This multi-tasker is perfect for those who aren’t stoked about adding an extra step in their daily routine. The dual-powered serum has been dermatologist-tested and contains ingredients such as Vichy volcanic water — drawn from the depths of French volcanoes — for its 15 skin-protecting essential minerals. Natural-origin Rhamnose (a plant sugar) and hyaluronic acid corrects the effects of skin aging while hydrating, fortifying the eyelash and eye contour area simultaneously. Simply massage into the entire eye area, finishing with one swipe from the inner eye corners outward while touching your lashes.
Peter Thomas Roth Lashes to Die For Turbo Conditioning Lash Enhancer
For healthy and lush lashes, Peter Thomas Roth’s lash enhancer has been formulated with a potent blend of Peptide Complex 11% and biotin, which helps with lash health, alongside a cocktail comprising 10% Conditioning Complex, aloe vera, and Tahitian Plankton Extract to moisturise and soften the look of your natural lashes — especially if they’re dry and brittle. Vitamins A, C, and E are also essential nutrients for stronger lashes, leaving you with healthier looking peepers after religious use.
(Main and featured image: Maybelline)
This story first appeared in Lifestyle Asia Singapore.
