You are thinking about giving an eyelash growth serum a shot. Maybe you have shorter lashes than you would like, or they are not as thick as you want them to be.
Whatever the reason, an eyelash serum can be a great way to improve the appearance of your lashes.
But before you get started, there are a few eyelash serum dos and don’ts to keep in mind if you want to maximize your results.
Let’s get started!
Eyelash Serum Do’s
Do Research the Ingredients
When it comes to an eyelash serum, you want to make sure you are aware of all the ingredients.
Many serums contain synthetic compounds that can cause irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. Others rely on prostaglandin analog compounds to achieve their results, which may not be worth the risk.
Instead, look for a serum that contains natural ingredients like peptides and biotin, which are known to promote lash growth. With a little research, you can find an eyelash serum that works for you and helps you achieve the lashes you’ve always wanted.
Do Apply on the Upper Lash Line Only
Lash growth serums are meant to enhance the appearance of the upper lashes only. You shouldn’t apply it on the bottom lashes.
Why?
The skin on the lower lash line is much thinner than the skin on the upper lash line. This makes it more susceptible to irritation and other side effects.
Moreover, there’s a higher chance for the product to transfer from the lower lash line to the eye, which can cause irritation.
Do Be Consistent
To see results from an eyelash serum, you need to be consistent with your application. You can’t apply once or twice and then skip a couple of days and start over again.
This will simply not work.
To see results, you need to apply the serum every day, without fail. Only then will you start to see a difference in your eyelashes.
Do Be Patient
Depending on the brand you select, you’ll need to wait between 4 to 16 weeks before seeing any changes.
So don’t give up if you don’t see results immediately.
Do Follow the Instructions
Last but not least, make sure you follow the instructions on the eyelash serum bottle to a T.
Applying more than what is recommended will not speed up the process. In fact, it may even cause irritation.
Eyelash Serum Don’ts
Don’t Re-Dip the Applicator in the Bottle
How I wish I had known this before I started using eyelash serums!
I would constantly re-dip the applicator in the bottle, which led to contamination. Not only that, you end up using way too much product.
Instead, just dip once and apply to both eyes swiftly. There is plenty enough product on the applicator to coat both upper lash lines.
Don’t Share With Others
Another don’t when it comes to using an eyelash serum is sharing it with others. Even if it’s just for a few uses, sharing can lead to contamination and infection.
If someone else wants to try your lash serum, tell them to get their own bottle or use a separate applicator that they would dip only once.
Don’t Apply Makeup Right After
Your eyelash growth serum needs time to dry once it is applied. It is generally recommended to wait for at least 5 minutes before applying any other eye makeup.
If you apply your makeup too soon, you run the risk of smudging it and having it transfer to other areas.
Both products might also interact with each other at a molecular level and no one really knows what would happen.
Don’t Use If You Have Any Eye or Skin Condition
If you have any predispositions to certain skin or eye conditions, it’s best to stay away from lash growth serums.
This is because some of the ingredients may trigger a flare-up or worsen your symptoms. If this is your case, it’s always best to consult with a doctor before trying a growth serum for the first time.
Don’t Use If You’re Pregnant or Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies that could determine the safety of lash growth serums when used by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
In fact, Latisse (the only FDA-approved serum) confirms that bimatoprost (active ingredient) has been shown to be passed through milk in animal studies.
Given the state of current research (or lack thereof), it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid using eyelash serums if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Don’t Use If You Have Allergies
If you have any allergies, it’s best to check thoroughly the list of ingredients to make sure you’re not exposing yourself to an allergen.
Some serums have quite an extensive list of ingredients and some of them you might never have heard of before.
You could do a patch test on your skin first to see if you have any reaction and only then proceed with using the product. When in doubt, it’s just best to try any other lash enhancement methods available to you.
Final Thoughts
By following these few tenets, you should be able to get the most out of your eyelash serum and avoid any costly mistakes. I know I have committed a few of them when I didn’t know any better!
Just remember to be patient, follow the instructions, and don’t use if you have any allergies or conditions. You’ll see, it’s totally worth it!
If you’re crafty, you can even try making your lash serum at home with a few key ingredients.
Do you have any tips you would like to share? Let me know in the comments below!
– Asako
