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While all these ingredients can make the lashes appear thicker and lusher over time, \u201cthe only ingredient with several clinical studies supporting its use in eyelash growth is bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog,\u201d Dr. Fowler says. \u201cBimatoprost 0.03% solution, also known as Latisse, is the only treatment that is FDA-approved to grow eyelashes. Bimatoprost works by increasing the time that the lash spends in its growth phase, leading to longer, thicker, and darker lashes.\u201d<\/p>\n
While Latisse is available by prescription, some over-the-counter lash-growth serums do contain prostaglandin analogs. \u201cHowever, unlike Latisse, these [other prostaglandin-analog serums] are not supported by robust clinical studies and are lacking in safety data,\u201d Dr. Fowler says. \u201cThe use of prostaglandin analogs in eyelash serums can often lead to side effects, so I recommend that patients approach these over-the-counter serums containing prostaglandin analogs with caution.\u201d When in doubt, speak to your physician, and start with a prostaglandin-free option from the list above.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe serums do work\u2014if<\/em> you use them correctly,\u201d Dr. Fowler says. Hear that? Instructions are required reading, and it helps to settle in for the long haul, too. Most of the serums start to show visible results after at least three months of consistent use. \u201cMaintenance is another important factor to consider because once you stop using the serum, your lashes will eventually return to their original state.\u201d Dr. Engleman says. She also says that most eyelash growth serums cannot regenerate lashes that have been permanently lost or severely damaged. Instead, they work by strengthening the existing lash follicles and prolonging the anagen, or growth, phase, of the hairs.<\/p>\n While rosemary and castor oils have been the subject of hair growth buzz, they can\u2019t deliver eyelash miracles. \u201cThere are no clinical studies indicating that botanical oils promote growth or lengthening of the eyelashes,\u201d Dr. Fowler says. \u201cInstead, they work mainly to condition and hydrate, which can lead to less breakage and stronger lashes that appear thicker and fuller.\u201d In over-the-counter eyelash growth serums, it\u2019s common to spot the aforementioned ingredients along with almond oil and jojoba oil. \u201cJust beware that these botanical oils can lead to allergic contact dermatitis or irritation, so use them with caution,\u201d Dr. Fowler says. And again, don\u2019t be afraid to consult with your physician.<\/p>\n When Allure<\/em> tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.<\/p>\n<\/div>\nWhat oil makes your eyelashes grow?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
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