Everything You Need To Know About Lash Serums

By Charlie Colville

3 hours ago

The beauty set's secret to longer lashes


Looking to up your lash lift game? Then you’ll want one of these serums, which promise to speed along hair growth for long, healthy-looking lashes. But how does it work? We ask TikTok-famous beauty brand Glow For It to fill us in.

What Is A Lash Serum?

‘Lash serum is a nourishing product that helps support the growth of your eyelashes,’ explains Daisy Kelly, founder of Glow For It. ‘It’s meant to encourage your lashes to grow long, healthy and strong using a combination of ingredients that stimulate hair growth.’

How Does It Work?

They work by conditioning and strengthening lashes, and by stimulating hair growth. But different brands use different ingredients to achieve this goal.

‘Our formula contains peptides which work to stimulate new lash growth whilst strengthening your existing eyelashes,’ highlights Daisy. ‘We also use powerful key ingredients like biotin to improve the lash hair structure, clover flower extract to modulate DHT (a hormone implicated in hair loss) and chamomile extract to help soothe the skin and lash hair follicle. All of these work together to enhance your natural lashes.’

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How Long Does It Take To Work?

There’s no instant fix when it comes to any kind of hair growth – but consistency is key to achieving results. ‘Now, result speed can differ depending on both the serum and the person using it,’ says Daisy. ‘But typically, we say that you’ll see results between four and 12 weeks, provided there has been consistent use. For example, Glow For It’s are designed to last you around three months or 12 weeks, which is how long your lash lifecycle is. And, if applied every single day, you should see results within that time frame.’

And How Long Does Lash Serum Last For?

The effects of a serum should last for as long as you use it, Daisy tells us. Once you stop, so do the effects. ‘However, it’s important to note that your lashes go through a natural lash lifecycle (which typically lasts 12 weeks). The end of the lash lifecycle is the shedding stage, which no lash serum can stop.

‘Lash serums work to keep your lashes in the growth phase for longer,’ she continues. ‘If you continue to use it, then the results will continue and will help regrow your lashes quicker after the shedding phase as your lashes will have everything they need to grow long, healthy and strong.’

Are Lash Serums Safe To Use?

Yes, they should be safe to use. Brands like Glow For It will ensure that their serums have been dermatologically tested, clinically tested and clinically trialled to be kind and safe to skin. ‘But we always recommend you carry out a patch test first,’ adds Daisy.

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Can You Use Lash Serum With Eyelash Extensions?

This depends on the serum. Most water-based products should be fine to wear over the top of eyelash extensions, but it’s always worth checking in with your lash tech first just in case.

Can You Use It On Your Eyebrows?

Due to risks of cross-contamination, it’s recommended that you don’t use products designed for your eyes on other parts of your face. Instead, look for area-specific products, like eyebrow serums, to help speed along hair growth.

Do Your Eyelashes ‘Go Back To Normal’ If You Stop Using Serum?

As mentioned, you need to keep using lash serum in order to see continuous results. ‘They will return to their pre-treatment state once your stop using a serum,’ confirms Daisy. ‘This may take some time as your lashes will still see benefit until they complete their natural lifecycle.

‘Think of it like a moisturiser; if you stopped using it then your skin wouldn’t be as hydrated and radiant.’

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Ingredients To Look Out For

Many serums will have formulas featuring the below ingredients:

  • Peptides: Short chains of amino acids that support fuller growth
  • Biotin: Helps the body metabolize protein
  • Panthenol: A moisturizer that conditions lashes
  • Hyaluronic acid: Helps stimulate hair growth and strengthen the follicle
  • Castor oil: Helps stimulate hair growth and strengthen the follicle
  • Keratin: A protein that’s naturally found in hair and is responsible for its strength and structure

You’ll also likely see some products with prostaglandin, a hormone that extends the anagen phase (or growing phase) of the hair growth cycle. This is an ingredient that Daisy recommends we stay well away from. ‘This hormone is present in many serums on the market and can cause side effects such as orbital fat loss [fat loss around the eye], hyperpigmentation and discolouration,’ she warns.

How To Apply Lash Serum

The best time to apply is during your nightly skincare routine, Daisy tells us. ‘We recommend that you apply your lash serum on clean, dry lashes directly to the root before you go to bed,’ she says. ‘This allows the serum to absorb into the lash line undisturbed while you sleep.’


Rose gold eyelash serum

Glow For It

Lash Growth Serum, £29.99

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White and grey bottle and applicator

No 7

Lash Impact Serum, £17.95

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Grey bottle and applicator

Revitalash

Advanced Eyelash Serum (Conditioner), £59

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Black lash serum bottle

UKLASH

Eyelash Serum, £38

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Featured image: Dawn Joe, Unsplash