Did you know that how you apply lash serum depends on the applicator that came with it? Other than that, the application process is pretty much the same for all brands.

In this article, I’ll show you the super simple steps I take when I put on my lash growth serum.

Let’s get started!

How to Apply Eyelash Serum

While applying lash serum might appear simple at first, there are a couple of things you’ll want to keep in mind before going ahead with your application. Incorrect lash serum application can lead to many unpleasant side effects, such as watery eyes, irritation, and eye redness,¹ so it’s important to use these products carefully.

Here are my 6 steps to applying lash serum safely and efficiently.

Step 1: Remove Contact Lenses

If you’re wearing contact lenses, it’s incredibly important that you remove them before applying any lash serum. If lash serum gets stuck behind your contact lenses, your stinging eyes aren’t going to be happy – no matter how long your lashes are!

Remove your contact lenses and set them aside in their container. You can put them back in around 15-20 minutes after you’ve finished applying your lash serum since contacts can be worn with lash serums.

Step 2: Cleanse and Remove Make-Up

This one might seem obvious, but it’s important that you ensure your lashes are completely clean and free of makeup before you apply any eyelash serum. The lash serum needs to be able to penetrate the lash fibers in order to work correctly, so your second step is to remove all traces of makeup.

Pro Tip: You can apply mascara after your eyelash growth serum as long as you wait at least 5 minutes for the serum to completely dry before coating your eyelashes with mascara.

You don’t need to do a full face cleanse; you just need to remove your eye makeup: this includes any eyeshadow, mascara, eyeliner, and eye pencil. However, if you’re going to be sleeping afterward, make sure you’ve cleansed your face entirely – you won’t be able to cleanse your face once the lash serum is applied, as it will get washed off.

Step 3: Get the Timing Right

I found it’s best to apply my growth serum at night before bed. That way, it has enough time to penetrate the hair shaft and work its magic during the night.

Step 4: Apply the Eyelash Serum

Most brands will supply an eyeliner-type applicator. I found those extremely easy to work with.

I’m sure you’ve applied eyeliner before right? With this type of applicator, it’s essentially the same process.

So, where do you apply the lash serum?

Simply swipe the applicator along the upper lash line.

Do NOT apply the lash serum to the lower lash line – this is one of the quickest ways to end up with the product in your eyes. Apply to the upper lash line only.

If you’re using a mascara-style applicator, gently comb through the lashes as if you were applying mascara. Again, don’t apply to the lower lash line.

Step 5: Wipe away any Excess Serum

If you have any excess eyelash serum on your eyelids or cheeks, you should quickly wipe this away using a cotton pad or a make-up pad. You definitely don’t want to let lash serum linger on your face – your face has lots of tiny little hairs, and you don’t want to mistakenly give them a growth boost!

Some doctors have also warned that lash serums – especially those with prostaglandins – can cause skin hyperpigmentation around the eyes. By removing any excess serum from your eyelids or face, you’ll minimize your chances of developing this particular side effect.

Pro Tip: You don’t need to wash off the lash growth serum once it is dried. Simply leave it on all night for maximum benefits.

Step 6: Clean your Applicator Brush

It’s a good idea to get into the habit of cleaning your applicator brush after every use of your eyelash serum. Your face and lashes can harbor bacteria just like any other part of your body, so rinse your applicator and give it a quick wash after use.

Not only will this protect the integrity of your lash serum, but it will also help you avoid any nasty eye infections – there’s no use in long and fluttery lashes if your eyes are red and blotchy!

FAQS

References

1. Derek Jones (2010) Enhanced Eyelashes: Prescription and Over-the-Counter Options. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3036812/ (Accessed on August 9th, 2022)