The growth serums that actually work for long, strong lashes.
Shannon M. Bauer is a Senior Commerce Editor for Dotdash Meredith's Beauty & Style Group. She joined the Shape team in 2022 and works with a team of talented freelance writers to create expert- and research-driven product roundups. Shannon has seven years of experience writing, editing, and producing beauty and wellness content for top print and digital publications. Shannon was previously a Beauty Editor at Parents, Parents Latina, and Shape print magazines. Viagra With Milk
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Whether you want to simplify your morning routine or just look slightly more awake during your 6 a.m. spin sesh, long, luscious eyelashes can go a long way toward achieving that perfectly natural look. But sometimes, makeup's just not in the cards (especially before an early workout) — and that's when eyelash growth serums can help.
In order to boost the length, volume, and shine of your lashes, you'll want to focus on eyelash growth serum formulas that contain peptides (which are key for preventing lash breakage) and prostaglandin. This ingredient, found in the prescription serum Latisse and in many over-the-counter lash serums — NeuLash's Lash Enhancing Serum is a highly rated example — is the special sauce that promotes speedy lash growth, allowing you to see results quickly.
To help you choose the best lash growth serum, Shape considered all the different formulas available and the types of results consumers are looking for. Plus, we consulted with dermatologists to make sure every eyelash growth serum we featured was helpful — not harmful — for the delicate skin around your eyes.
Here are the best lash growth serums on the market.
Why We Like It: It's a dermatologist-recommended and award-winning formula.
It's Worth Noting: There is a chance it can cause darkening of the eyelid.
The RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner is a big hit in the lash serum world and in our testing, and for good reason — it really works. (RevitaLash also makes one of our favorite eyebrow growth serums.) Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, recommends this pick to her patients.
"Revitalash is an over-the-counter favorite lash growth serum boasting significant improvements in growth," says Dr. Murphy-Rose. "Revitalash contains a smaller amount of prostaglandin, called latanoprost, which can have similar results to Latisse (a prescription lash growth treatment), though it usually takes longer to see the effects. Because there is less prostaglandin compared to Latisse, Revitalash has a reduced chance of side effects." (More info on prostaglandin side effects at the end of this article.)
Michelle Henry, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetics Surgery of Manhattan, also loves this lash serum. "RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner is also a great serum option for fuller lashes," she says. "This serum is infused with helpful peptides that protect the lashes from breakage while also delivering shine."
We also liked that it was super simple to use: The fine brush tip didn’t deposit too much product or drop into our eyes and it dries almost instantly. And when we say it worked, it worked: After a month of use our eyelashes nearly doubled in length. With mascara the tips of the lashes were touching our eyebrows and gave that doll eyed effect. And the ultimate compliment: Our friends asked if we had gotten a lash lift.
One of the downsides of this product is the higher price tag. A three-month supply will cost you $98, but if you'd prefer to test out the product first before fully committing, you can purchase a 1.0 mL trial size for $55 instead.
Size: 0.67 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Latanoprost | Results: 6 weeks
Why We Like It: This lash serum contains broad-spectrum CBD to soothe skin and promote lash growth naturally.
It's Worth Noting: The before and after photos aren't as impressive as other lash serums on the market.
The Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Lash Serum contains broad-spectrum CBD, mung bean, and red clover to create a healthy environment for your lashes to grow naturally. It's vegan and cruelty-free and less likely to cause irritation after application — also a great way to boost the look of a clean mascara.
Because this formula is vegan and is relatively natural, you probably won't see results with a wow-factor. We saw the most amount of growth on the inner half of the eye, those lashes had the beginning stages of more growth at the end of our one month test. This formula may need more time to see the results you're looking for. That being said, if you prefer a lash serum that is gentle on the delicate eye skin and won't cause crazy side effects, this is the best option for you.
Size: 0.10 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: CBD, Mung Bean, Red Clover | Results: 4-8 weeks
Why We Like It: It's inexpensive yet still very effective.
It's Worth Noting: It's prostaglandin-free, so you won't see results as quickly as other lash serums on this list.
For those on a budget, this lash growth serum from SmartFX is a great fit to add to your daily routine. Dr. Henry is also a big fan. "The SmartFX Eyelash Enhancer is a budget-friendly lash serum that has a prostaglandin-free formulation," she says. "It is less irritating on the eyes and can be applied twice a day."
Because this option doesn't contain prostaglandin, you won't see fast lash growth results. That being said, you also won't have to deal with any of the potential side effects that come along with prostaglandin-filled lash serums.
Size: 0.16 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Glycerin, Castor Oil | Results: N/A
Why We Like It: It's great for those with sensitive eyes.
It's Worth Noting: This product doesn't contain prostaglandin, which is an ingredient in other lash serums that promotes rapid lash growth. So, you might not see super fast results with this pick.
If you've noticed that other lash serums seem to cause irritation to your eyes, consider trying out the Lashfood Phyto-Medic Natural Eyelash Enhancer. We experienced zero sensitivity during our testing. This product has a more natural, clean formulation compared to others, and is considered the world's first and only Ecocert natural eyelash enhancer, since it's made of 99 percent natural and organic ingredients.
Dr. Henry recommends Lashfood to her patients. "The Lashfood eyelash growth serum is a popular product on the market today — the serum is infused with arginine, an amino acid that promotes hair growth at the root," she says. "The Lashfood serum is also gentle on sensitive skin and is cruelty-free and vegan."
This formula doesn't contain any prostaglandin, synthetic fragrances, silicone, phenoxyethanol, synthetic dyes, mineral oils, PEG, petrochemicals, and GMOs. It's gluten-free and won't cause irritation. However, because this pick doesn't contain prostaglandin, you might not see as fast lash growth results compared to other lash serums on the market.
Size: 0.10 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Patented Phyto-Medic Complex | Results: 4 weeks
Why We Like It: This option can be worn while wearing eyelash extensions.
It's Worth Noting: The applicator doesn't really allow you to apply this to the root of lashes.
Clementina Richardson, founder of Envious Lashes in NYC, created the Envious Lashes Lash Conditioning Serum for her clients to help them maintain healthy lashes while wearing eyelash extensions. It contains a host of natural, botanical ingredients to maintain strong, soft lashes. The applicator is shaped like a mascara wand and can be used while wearing lash extensions (or not). Because of this design, it might be difficult to apply this to the root of lashes.
Size: 0.27 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Natural botanicals | Results: N/A
Why We Like It: This pick went viral on TikTok for its lengthening effects.
It's Worth Noting: Some folks have cited irritation with this product.
The Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum is probably one of the most popular and well-known lash serums on the market. With daily application, you should start to see results within four weeks. We confirmed: You could see significant length and strength improvements within the four weeks. Both lashes and brows were noticeably thicker and lashes were less prone to breaking or falling out.
While this pick is a fan favorite amongst many lash serum stans, it's important to note that some folks have reported irritation from this product — it might sting your eyes and/or make the lash line appear red and inflamed. Because of this, it's important to patch-test this pick before applying it to your lashes.
Size: 0.07 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Panthenol | Results: 4 weeks
Why We Like It: This pick targets a specific phase of the lash cycle for longer, fuller lashes.
It's Worth Noting: It's on the pricier side for a lash serum.
The Obagi Nu-Cil Eyelash Enhancing Serum is a high-end lash serum designed to specifically the brand's proprietary NouriPlex Technology, which is a combination of ingredients such as panthenol, biotin, sodium hyaluronate, and a unique lipid compound.
Although we love this product for its ease of use and efficacy, it is one of the pricier options on the list. It's important to note that the second ingredient in this formula is dehydrolatanoprost, which is a type of prostaglandin (the controversial ingredient used in many lash serums). On their website, Obagi warns that this product "may cause increased brown iris pigmentation of the colored part of the eye, which is likely to be permanent," and that it "may cause darkening of the eyelid skin, which may or may not be reversible." These are similar warnings and precautions listed for prescription lash serum Latisse, too.
Size: 0.10 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Dehydrolatanoprost | Results: 8 weeks
Why We Like It: The super simple ingredients (including castor oil) condition lashes.
It's Worth Noting: It doesn't contain any prostaglandins, known to rapidly increase lash growth.
Castor oil has been a widely-used, natural ingredient to promote hair growth and is one of the star ingredients in this pick. In fact, the Twenty Twenty Beauty Get Growing Lash & Brow Serum only contains three natural ingredients: castor oil, coconut oil, and argan oil.
If you're worried about using a lash serum with prostaglandins in it, this is a great option for you. This lash serum will help hydrate and condition lashes, but it probably won't promote rapid growth in lashes. It won't cause irritation, redness, or eye discoloration, and it can be used on both lashes and brows, too.
Size: 0.33 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Castor oil | Results: 90 days
Why We Like It: This product was specifically developed for aging hair.
It's Worth Noting: It might take longer to see results since this pick doesn't contain prostaglandin.
Aging comes with a lot of fun bodily changes — and you can add sparser lashes to that list. This pick from Better Not Younger was developed for folks experiencing hair loss as they age (but of course is safe and effective for use on those not yet experiencing hair loss due to aging).
Dr. Murphy-Rose likes to recommend this pick to her patients. "Rich in growth-promoting vitamins and peptides, Better Not Younger's Superpower Lash Enhancing Serum has been shown to thicken and lengthen lashes," she says. "It combines pumpkin seed extract, biotin, panthenol, and hyaluronic acid with a peptide complex to strengthen follicles, supporting healthier-looking lashes." Biotin supplements have long been taken to promote better skin and strong hair and nails, so its inclusion here is to be expected.
Size: 0.24 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Pumpkin seed extract, panthenol, biotin | Results: 4 weeks
Why We Like It: It's a longtime fan favorite and has a dual-purpose applicator.
It's Worth Noting: It might make eyelashes darker with continued use, so if you don't want darker lashes over time, don't choose this one.
The Talika Lipocils Expert is an award-winning lash serum that works to lengthen and darken lashes with continued use, almost like an eyelash tint. "Talika's cult-favorite Lipocils Expert contains growth-enhancing peptides, lash curling silk proteins, plus coleus forskohlii, a natural pigmentation booster, to darken lashes," explains Dr. Murphy-Rose.
We also love the inventive, unique applicator — it's one part bristles, and one part doe-foot applicator. We found the mascara-like brush super easy to swipe through our lashes and the doe-foot applicator nice to apply along your lash line.
The strengthening benefits were noticeable. We saw less lashes fall out when removing eye makeup or taking off false lashes than before. It also can darken lashes to give your lashes a bit more oomph, even when you’re not wearing any makeup. Just be sure to apply thin coats, our testing found that it made lashes feel heavy if too much was put on at once.
Size: 0.33 fl oz. | Active Ingredients: Mythical plant complex | Results: 4 weeks
We tested 30 of the top-rated eyelash growth serums over the course of one month. Each tester got one serum to apply daily, according to package instructions, for the month. They then recorded their experience with the product on a scale of five considering the ease of use, absorption, strengthening, lengthening, sensitivity, overall final look, and the price. Our testers were required to use it on their lashes but some also used it on their brows and recorded those thoughts too. We selected six winners from testing to make this list.
Once we had our favorites from testing (Revitalash and Grandelash were top performers), we also considered other options on the market. We looked at their active ingredients, price, and consulted two experts on the topic — board-certified dermatologists Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose and Dr. Michelle Henry — who have done extensive work on understanding lash growth in their practices. They have also tested many of the products on the market on themselves and their patients and know which ones deliver results. The dermatologists provided quotes on the products on this list and weighed in on the benefits and potential pitfalls of using eyelash growth serums. We looked at more budget-friendly options, natural formulas, and ones designed for lash extensions before making this list of the best eyelash growth serums.
Less lashes fell out during our skincare routines after a few weeks of using this product and they did appear slightly fuller. However, the results were not as dramatic as other options on the list. And the packaging was a con — the tube is small for the price and it does not sit nicely on a shelf because of the round design.
While we loved how glossy, soft, and pliable our lashes were after using this serum, we didn’t see the growth or strength benefits that we would need to to recommend it as a best growth product. For anyone who is on a budget and wants a conditioning product, this is a great pick.
There are a few dangers or precautions you should know about before trying a lash serum. "Some lash serums can cause discoloration of the eyelid skin, and Latisse can cause discoloration of the iris (the part of your eye that is colored), especially when used on lighter eyes," explains Dr. Murphy-Rose. "To minimize the risk, apply a very minimal amount of product at a time and apply as instructed to the lash line only."
Like any skincare product, lash serums can cause allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, where applied. "The periorbital area is particularly prone to hypersensitivity reactions," says Dr. Murphy-Rose. "If you notice symptoms, discontinue use and consult a physician." (FYI, the periorbital area goes from the skin of the eyelid to the bony area that surroudns the eye.)
Lash growth serums may cause eye irritation, allergic reactions, or side effects. "If you notice any eye redness, itchiness, or swelling, it's best to stop using the product," suggests Dr. Henry. Prostaglandin is a bit of a controversial ingredient due to its potential side effects of permanently darkening the irises and/or darkening the skin around the eyes. "Prostaglandin-infused formulas have been noted to cause hyperpigmentation of the eyelids by stimulating the production of melanin," says Dr. Henry.
The most important ingredients to look for in lash growth serums are peptides, such as myristoyl pentapeptide and myristoyl hexapeptide. "These protein peptides stop lash breakage and help repair hair damage," explains Dr. Henry. "Vitamin B5 and B7 strengthen hair roots, promote hair growth and prevent premature hair loss." Our choice for best overall lash growth serum, RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner, contains both prostaglandin and peptides to strengthen as it promotes fullness and length.
Lash growth serums and conditioners work by stimulating the hair follicle to grow and to keep this follicle in the growth phase of the hair cycle, also known as the anagen phase. "Serums can also deliver nourishment and result in longer and thicker eyelashes with their protein-based formulas that help repair hair follicles," explains Dr. Henry.
Prostaglandins are a type of ingredient found in many lash serums on the market. They stimulate lash growth by a hormone-like mechanism that is not yet well understood, according to Dr. Murphy-Rose. "Latisse contains a prescription-strength prostaglandin called bimatoprost that is known to stimulate growth," she says. "Over-the-counter prostaglandin-based serums contain a weaker prostaglandin, such as latanoprost, that also stimulates growth but may take longer to achieve the same results. The benefit to using a weaker prostaglandin-based serum is that the risk of side effects is also lower."
Although seeing lash growth results are very individual and subjective, on average, noticeable results can be seen as soon as two weeks or 20 days. "Most people see a major difference after two or three months of daily use," says Dr. Henry. "As the normal hair growth cycle is around six to eight weeks, lash growth serums halt the shedding phase and help increase the growth phase of the cycle." Many lash growth serums need to be used daily on a consistent basis to see the desired results.
According to Dr. Murphy-Rose, you can use lash growth serums with lash extensions, but the increased rate of growth may require you to make more frequent visits to the lash salon. A strengthening serum designed for false lashes may also help keep lashes strong throughout the extensions process, such as Envious Lashes Lash Conditioning Serum.
Daley Quinn is a freelance journalist, content strategist, and beauty industry expert with over ten years of experience in the media industry. You can find more of her work on her website or read the latest from her beauty and lifestyle blog, The Daley Dose. Daley has tried her fair share of lash serums on the market and knows what's worth buying and trying. We interviewed two board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose and Dr. Michelle Henry, for this story because of their extensive work done within the dermatological field and their comprehensive lash serum testing on both themselves and their patients.
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