GOT DARK CIRCLES FROM YOUR LASH SERUM?

After doing some research online, You found that many other people experienced similar issues from using these products. But is there any truth behind these claims?

In this article, I’ll cover the science behind this side effect and the exact ingredients to watch for on the product label. I’ll also give a list of lash serums that don’t cause dark circles.

Let’s get started!

Does Eyelash Serum Cause Dark Circles?

On the Latisse Safety Info,¹ the company discloses that skin darkening can occur close to the area where the product was applied.

So what is Latisse?

Latisse is a prescription eyelash serum that is used to treat hypotrichosis, which is a condition that causes inadequate or insufficient lashes. It is the only lash serum approved by the FDA. The active ingredient is bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog that works by increasing the length, thickness, and darkness of eyelashes.

This product was originally developed as a treatment for glaucoma, but it was found to have the side effect of lengthening and thickening eyelashes.²

Great, but what about all the other eyelash growth serums on the market? Can they also darken the skin?

That’s where it gets tricky.

Remember I said bimatoprost, the active ingredient in Latisse is a prostaglandin analog? Well, it’s not the only one. Some common ones are isopropyl cloprostenate and isopropyl phenyl hydroxypentane. But there are others.

Any eyelash serum with a prostaglandin analog ingredient could have the same side effects.

However, because they are not regulated by the FDA, they also do not need to disclose the side effects!

Marvelous isn’t it?

So, if you are worried about getting dark circles from using an eyelash growth serum, you should read the ingredient label carefully and stay clear of any prostaglandin analog formulations.

Lash Serum That Doesn’t Cause Dark Circles

Here’s a list of lash serums that won’t darken the skin around your eyes:

• Lash Luxury
• LASHFOOD Serum
• Adoreeye lash serum
• Vegamour GRO lash serum
• The Ordinary lash serum

These products don’t have any prostaglandins. Instead, they use peptides, vitamins, and amino acids to promote longer-looking eyelashes.

Having said that, they are OTC meaning they are not regulated by the FDA. As I said earlier, only Latisse is.

One piece of advice.

During my research, I stumbled upon some serums on Amazon that didn’t disclose their ingredients! You should run as fast as you can from those.

Other Possible Causes for Your Dark Circles

There are many possible causes of dark circles under the eyes, including genetics, allergies, fatigue, and certain medical conditions. However, one of the most common causes of dark circles is simply not getting enough sleep.

When you don’t get enough rest, the blood vessels under your eyes can become dilated, which makes the area look darker.

Other possible causes of dark circles include:

– Allergies: When you have allergies, your body releases histamine, which can cause the blood vessels under your eyes to swell. This can lead to dark circles.

– Fatigue: When you’re tired, the skin under your eyes can appear darker. This is because the skin is thinner in this area, so the blood vessels underneath are more visible.

– Medical conditions: Some medical conditions can cause dark circles, such as thyroid problems, anemia, and Nasolacrimal duct obstruction (a blockage in the tear ducts).

How to Deal With Dark Circles if You Do Have Them 

If you are concerned about the possibility of dark circles, there are a few things you can do to help prevent them.

First, try to stop using your eyelash serum. Your skin may return to its normal color after a few weeks.

Second, make sure you are getting enough sleep. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night.

Third, try to avoid rubbing or touching your eyes, as this can irritate the delicate skin around them.

Finally, use a good eye cream that contains ingredients like caffeine or vitamin C, which can help constrict the blood vessels under your eyes.

FAQ

References

1. Latisse. Safety Info. Retrieved from https://www.latisse.com/SafetyAndSideEffects.aspx (Accessed on 20 February 2023)
2. American Academy of Ophthalmology (2019). What You Should Know About Eyelash Growth Serums. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/latisse (Accessed on 20 February 2023)