buuk.top / Jaclyn Mastropasqua
A generous coat of your favorite mascara will work wonders for creating the appearance of longer, more voluminous eyelashes. But let’s be real—we’d all love some naturally full lashes. That’s where eyelash growth serums come into play. “Eyelash growth serums can help boost the length and fullness of your lashes,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry, M.D. “They typically contain special proprietary complexes that feature peptides, antioxidants, or prostaglandins—all ingredients that help promote hair growth.”1
But unlike mascara, the potential positive results that eyelash growth serums create take some time to see. So,we put 31 of the most popular and highly-rated lash serums to the test over the course of 10 weeks.We evaluated each one on the basis of ease of use, absorption, strengthening, lengthening, sensitivity, and overall look. Ahead, find the six eyelash growth serums that performed the best.
Borboleta Lash Serum at Amazon
Lancôme Lash Revitalizing Serum at Ulta
Grande Cosmetics Lash Enhancing Serum
RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum at Ulta
Vichy Eyelash Growth Serum at Amazon
RevitaLash Cosmetics Advanced Eyelash Conditioner at Amazon
In This Article
Expand
Best Overall
Borboleta Lash Serum
Borboleta
View On Borboleta.com
Fast-absorbing
Thin, non-sticky consistency
Works beautifully for lengthening the lashes
Non-sensitizing
Doesn’t do much for thickening the lashes
Powered by a blend of biotin, peptides, keratin, and plant-based stem cells,this cruelty-free, ophthalmologist-tested, and clinically-tested lash growth serum seriously impressed us. With just one swipe of the small brush across the lash line, we were able to apply the serum quickly and easily. The thin consistency dried down within a matter of seconds, and it didn’t leave a heavy or sticky residue on our skin or between our lashes.
While we didn’t notice a difference in the density or thickness of lashes,we were blown away by how well this serum worked at lengthening them. After consistently using the serum over the course of our 10-week test, we noticed asignificant improvement in the length of our eyelashesas well as the curl. The difference was so noticeable that a co-worker who had no idea we were testing a lash serum complimented our eyelashes, a welcomed first for us. If length is what you’re hoping to improve, we highly recommend this formula.
Highlighted Ingredients: Biotin, peptides, keratin, plant-based stem cells | Cruelty-Free:Yes
buuk.top / Ashleigh Morley
buuk.top / Ashleigh Morley
buuk.top / Ashleigh Morley
Best for Sensitive Eyes
Lancôme Cils Booster Lash Revitalizing Serum
Nordstrom
View On Nordstrom
View On Lancome-usa.com
Easy to apply
Non-irritating on the skin or eyes
Makes the lashes feel stronger
Helps minimize lash loss
Provides minor lengthening benefits
Could be more effective for promoting lash density
If you have sensitive skin or sensitive eyes, you may hesitate to use a lash serum. However, there are options that may work for you without causing irritation, such as this one, whichdid not irritate our testers eczema-prone eyelids.This formula is safe for sensitive eyes,has been ophthalmologist tested, and utilizes thepower of amino acids to help fortify the lashesthat have been damaged by consistent makeup wearing.2 Interestingly enough, it claims to minimize the amount of lashes that fall out during the makeup removalprocess. We love that this formula leaves lashes stronger, softer, and more resilient.
We also love that there are slight lengthening benefits, though the improvement in the overall strength stands out the most to us. Worth noting: the brush is soft and effective for targeting the lash line.
Highlighted Ingredients: Amino acids | Cruelty-Free
: No
buuk.top / Cindy Mathieu
buuk.top / Cindy Mathieu
Best Volumizing
Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum
Ulta
View On Amazon
View On Ulta
Fast-absorbing
Thickens eyelashes and eyebrows
Small brush is easy to use and evenly distributes the serum
Doesn’t do much in terms of lengthening
Can be sensitizing on the eyes
Chances are, you’ve either seen ads for this ultra-popular eyelash growth serum, or you know someone who’s tried it—it’s been a staple on the market for quite some time, and we can see why. We areseriously impressed by how well it thickens lashes and brows. Our hairs appeared fuller, and they felt strongerand more resistant to breakage.
In terms of the application, we love how the fine brush applicator for a targeted application still distributes enough product without having to constantly re-dip into the tube. We also appreciate that theformula dried down quickly.Do note that if you get the formula into your eyes, you might experience significant eye sensitivity. So, while we highly recommend this for people who are looking to thicken their lashes, we recommend taking your time to apply it very carefully.
Highlighted Ingredients: Peptides, amino acids, hyaluronic acid | Cruelty-Free: Yes
buuk.top / Elena Garcia
buuk.top / Elena Garcia
buuk.top / Elena Garcia
Best for Quick Results
RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum
Ulta
View On Dermstore
View On Target
Fast-absorbing
Non-sensitizing
Helps to significantly lengthen the lashes
Relatively affordable considering the quick, positive results
Doesn’t work to thicken the lashes
Eyelash growth serums require a consistent application and a whole lot of patience before you notice results; that’s just the nature of these products. But, with this pick, we noticed animmediate thickening and lengtheningwithin a few weeks as lashes went from short and stubby to longer and more uniform.
We also love that the brush picks up just the right amount of the formula, and once applied, it absorbs within a matter of seconds without causing any irritation. Though it’s not a budget option by any means, this one is relativelyaccessible (aka it’s easy to find), making it a great option for a wide range of consumers who are hoping to lengthen their lashes in a short time span.
Highlighted Ingredients: Peptides, biotin, amino acids | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Dual-Purpose
Vichy LiftActiv Serum 10 Eyes and Lashes
Amazon
View On Dermstore
View On Walmart
Multi-use formula doubles as an anti-wrinkle serum
Comfortable, lightweight formula
Helps to strengthen the lashes
Doesn’t work to lengthen the lashes
Pump applicator dispenses a bit too much product
This serum combines your eye cream and eyelash serumapplication into one easy step, making it an excellent option for those who like to keep their beauty routines quick and easy. The formula acts as ananti-wrinkle serum for the delicate skin in the eye area, as well as a lash fortifying and conditioning serum. You simply pump out some product onto your fingertip and apply it to the eye area, making sure to sweep a bit of it across your lash lines and gently coat your eyelashes.
Although the pump applicator might be hard to control (it can dispense too much product), the results make using the serum well worth the inconvenience. After the full ten-week testing period, wesaw a real improvement in the strength and fullness of our lashes. We also love that the formula helps reduce the number of lashes that fall out during makeup removal.
Highlighted Ingredients: Rhamnose, hyaluronic acid, Vichy volcanic water | Cruelty-Free: No
buuk.top / Emma Phelps
Best Splurge
RevitaLash Cosmetics Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
Amazon
View On Dermstore
View On Nordstrom
Thin and fast-absorbing
Helps strengthen lashes
Significantly improves the length of the lashes
Doesn’t help to increase lash density
There’s no denying that this lash growth serum is expensive, but the results are noticeable and intense, so we can justify the price tag. Formulated with a blend of peptides, biotin, amino acids, and vitamins, the formula works tostrengthen the lashes, protect against breakage, and significantly lengthen the eyelashes.
We noticed eyelashes feeling stronger and more resistant to breakage throughout the testing period, but the dramatic improvement in the length of lashes is what really stood out. Between how well it works for lengthening and strengthening, how easy it is to apply, and how comfortable it is,this one has our stamp of approval.
Highlighted Ingredients: Peptides, biotin, amino acids, vitamin B |Cruelty-Free: Yes
Where We Stand
Our best overall pick is the Borboleta Lash Serum. It’s excellent for strengthening the lashes; it helps to minimize lash loss, and it provides lengthening benefits. But if you’re on the hunt for something that will really work to thicken your lashes and increase overall density, we recommend theGrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum. If lengthening your eyelashes is your goal, then go for theRevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner.
How We Tested
In order to discover the best eyelash growth serums on the market,we tried 31 lash serums over the course of 10 weeks. We took weekly progress photos and compared before and after photos to gauge efficacy.
Other attributes we considered include:
Ease of useAbsorption time Strengthening and lengthening capabilitiesReactions and sensitivity
Other Options We Tested
LashFood Phyto-Medic Eyelash Enhancing Serum
While this all natural eyelash enhancing serum was easy to apply and non-irritating, our tester saw no improvement in the appearance of her eyelashes.
Velour Lashes Long & Strong Lash Serum
Our tester liked the applicator on this popular lash serum, and while she felt that her lashes were slightly stronger after using it, she didn’t notice much improvement in terms of length or volume.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum
Although our tester loved that this affordable eyelash serum enhanced the shine of her lashes, she didn’t notice an improvement in their quality or length.
What to Look for in a Lash Growth Serum
Peptides: Jas Imani, a New York City-based licensed esthetician and certified Yumi Lash esthetician, recommends looking for formulas that contain peptides, which she says are great for fortifying lash hair and helping lashes grow stronger. Peptides are also great for nourishing lashes that are brittle and frail, so consider them a must if you’ve been too rough with mascara removal or wear waterproof formulas on the regular. GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum is an excellent choice that contains peptides.Biotin: You’re probably already familiar with biotin in supplement form, which is great for helping the hair and nails grow strong and healthy. Imani recommends looking for lash growth serums that also contain this powerful ingredient to help your lashes grow long and strong, too. Both RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum and RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner contain growth-promoting blends of biotin, peptides, and amino acids.Conditioning formulas
: In order to maintain long and healthy lashes, you’ll want to look for a formula that contains conditioning ingredients to keep them soft and prevent future breakage. Alternatively, if you love a formula that doesn’t contain conditioning ingredients, you can also purchase a separate lash conditioner to help maintain lash health. If conditioning your lashes is your main goal, go for Vichy LiftActiv Eyelash Growth Serum or RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner.
According to Imani, yes, they work. Because eyelashes are made up of over 90 percent protein, many formulas contain amino acids or peptides (the building blocks of protein) to help nourish lash hair while repairing any damage.3Some formulas contain collagen, which helps repair damage and keep the lashes strong. These ingredients dont necessarily stimulate new growth, but by strengthening the lash hair, theyll lend your lashes a thicker, fuller, and longer appearance.
Very few formulas contain ingredients that will stimulate new growth, such as bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog that is the active ingredient in prescription-only Latisse.
Though eyelash growth serums are generally considered to be safe, Henry shares that there are some potential risks and side effects to keep in mind. “Some people may experience irritation, redness, or itching around the eyes, especially if they have sensitive skin,” she explains. “In rare cases, eyelash growth serums can cause changes in the color of the iris or the skin around the eyes. Its also possible to experience eyelash breakage or brittleness if the serum is overused or applied incorrectly.”
If you have sensitive skin or eyes, it’s wise to consult with your doctor before trying one out. Henry also stresses that in order to ensure you’re using a lash growth serum safely, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. She also says to avoid getting the serum in your eyes and be sure to wash your hands after application.
If you’ve done your research on eyelash growth serums, perhaps you’ve heard of prostaglandins, a class of ingredients that are proven to stimulate lash growth. “Prostaglandins are naturally occurring substances in the body that play a role in a variety of physiological processes, including inflammation, blood clotting, and the regulation of hormones,” says Henry. “One type of prostaglandin, known as prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha), has been found to promote eyelash growth. It works by increasing the length of the anagen (growth) phase of the eyelash hair cycle, which results in longer and thicker lashes.”
While this class of ingredients does help with lash growth, they’re sometimes associated with side effects like darkening and thinning of the surrounding skin and loss of fat in the eye area. If you’re concerned about these side effects, or you do experience them, it’s best to consult with a doctor who can advise you on the next steps.
According to Imani, you can pair lash growth serums with eyelash extensions. She recommends opting for a formula that focuses on lash health to strengthen your natural lashes throughout the life of your extensions.
Lash growth serums work by essentially stimulating your eyelash hair follicles and keeping them in the anagen phase (the active/growth stage of the hair growth cycle). Formulas usually contain nourishing and strengthening ingredients, like biotin, peptides, and amino acids as well.
Youll also find lash growth serums formulated with prostaglandins. Though the mechanism isnt very well understood, this class of ingredients has a hormone-like response that tricks the normal hair-growth cycle, effectively stopping the resting phase and stimulating growth wherever its applied.
On average, itll take anywhere from three weeks to two months for a lash growth serum to start working. It may technically begin working sooner, but the growth will likely be too small to see with the naked eye until a bit later.
Formulas often contain about a three-month supply, and you should start seeing results by the time you finish the tube. But bear in mind that this isnt a once-in-a-while treatment, like a hair mask. Youll definitely have to use the product every day (potentially twice a day), as directed, to achieve the desired results.
Start by gently cleansing your eye area and removing all makeup, sunscreen, and other skincare residues. Gently pat your skin dry, and make sure its entirely dry before beginning. Using the applicator wand, carefully glide the brush along your upper lash line to apply a thin layer of serum—almost like applying liquid eyeliner. Repeat the process on the lower lash line, and wait for the serum to dry completely before applying anything else.
Carefully following the directions is crucial when using a lash growth serum. Some formulas are meant to be used daily, while others might call for twice-daily use.
Why Trust buuk.top
Alyssa Kaplan is an experienced writer in the beauty industry and a product tester specializing in cosmetics. She received a bachelor’s degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she studied marketing and product development in the cosmetics industry as well as fashion business marketing. Alyssa has been a commerce writer at buuk.top since 2022, where she covers all things beauty.
buuk.top contributor Melanie Rud is a writer with over a decade of experience in the beauty industry. She covers all things skincare—from buzzy ingredients to acne advice. For this story, she considered any potential irritation and how long serums take to deliver visible results.
Caitlyn Martyn is a commerce writer on staff at buuk.top, where she covers beauty and style. She gathered insights and testimonials from our experienced team of editors and in-house lab testers to curate this list of eyelash growth serums.
We spoke to two experts to get valuable insights to inform our selections for this story, including:
Jas Imani, a New York City-based licensed esthetician and certified Yumi Lash esthetician
Dr. Michelle Henry, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist
According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough eyelash growth serums from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@buuk.top.com
, and we will evaluate the product ASAP.
Jill Di Donato
Article Sources
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Rushton, D H. “Nutritional factors and hair loss.” Clinical and experimental dermatology vol. 27,5 (2002): 396-404. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2230.2002.01076.x
Sachdev M, Velugotla K, Revanker S, Somasekhar G. An Open-label, Single-center, Safety and Efficacy Study of Eyelash Polygrowth Factor Serum. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020 Feb;13(2):61-66. Epub 2020 Feb 1. PMID: 32308787; PMCID: PMC7158911.
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