The Best Eyelash Serum

Buying Guide

You don’t need to be headed out for a special occasion to get the fluffy lashes look. Many women want to have big lashes each and every day, whether they’re heading to work, running errands or going out for a night on the town. Eyelash serum is a cosmetic product that is designed to lengthen, strength and condition your eyelashes so they look bigger and bolder.

There are two main types of eyelash serum. One variety is a prescription product that can only be prescribed by a medical doctor. It contains active medical ingredients that help to grow your lashes with a hormonal substance. The other kind is an over-the-counter product that provides cosmetic benefits such as lengthening the lashes and strengthening the hair so it does not break or fall out as easily. You do not need a prescription to buy cosmetic eyelash serum. While cosmetic eyelash serum doesn’t actually make your eyelashes grow, it does provide a lot of TLC to your lashes which gives the appearance of a fuller look.

MORE: Do lash growth serums actually work?

The active ingredient used in many eyelash serums was actually discovered by accident when working on another kind of medication. You may notice that it is similar to the active ingredient found in glaucoma medication. The ingredient had the unexpected side effect of growing eyelashes when used to treat glaucoma. Medical companies then created a new product, the eyelash serum, using that active ingredient.

• When buying any cosmetic products for your eyes, it’s best to check the ingredient list carefully. If you have any allergies, ensure that none of those ingredients are used in the eyelash serum. If you are not sure whether you will have an allergic reaction, it’s best to spot test the serum with a small amount on your skin and wait to see whether you have any adverse effects.
• Because you are applying the serum so close to your eyes, they might become itchy, watery or irritated. That’s why it’s key to always follow the instructions on the serum and use the product exactly as directed.
• To see the full lash effect you’re going for, you will need to ensure you use the product consistently. It likely won’t have the same effect if you use it for a couple of days on and off. Consistency in using the product is what will help to strengthen and lengthen your eyelashes.
• Most eyelash serum products have a suggestion for how long you need to use the product for, such as sixty days. Be sure you purchase enough product to last that long. Stopping use of the product before their suggested time period may not give you the results you want.
• Eyelash serums are typically sold in small quantities. For example, serum products are typically available in fluid ounces or milliliters.
• Applying products around your eyes can be tricky, so it’s important to see what kinds of application tools are needed. Some serums use a mascara-like brush while others use a tool that is similar to that used for applying eyeliner. Others use a tool like an eyedropper. Be sure to get the one you are most comfortable using.