I’ve Tried Over 20 Eyelash Serums—These Are the Ones That Actually Work
I was always skeptical about lash-enhancing serums until I tried these formulas that make people ask me if I've had extensions every time I'm out.
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I’ve always been skeptical about gimmicky beauty products, and while I never really thought that lash growth serums necessarily fell under this branch, I was equally as unconvinced by their promises of fuller, more voluminous lashes as I was with $5 facial massagers on Amazon alleging to get rid of my double chin. That was until one of my now best friends told me she swore off mascara just a month after using her trusted eyelash serum the first day we met. Frankly, I thought she’d just gotten a natural-looking pair of lash extensions before my colleague, and I begged her to tell us her secret, so as soon as I got home, I ordered GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum on Amazon to see if it helped beef up my lashes too.
I’ll admit that I was genetically blessed with somewhat long lashes (my mom’s lashes were apparently the subject of a lot of envy during her high school days), but sans mascara, mine were nothing to swoon over. Just three weeks into using my GrandeLASH MD Eyelash serum, I noticed my lashes appeared darker and less sparse (not bad, I thought), but my friends were downright astonished by the growth—especially when I did wear mascara. Given the impressive results, I also started to use the magic elixir on my sparse brows, which, thanks to coming of age in the early 2000s, were plucked down to the size and shape of sperm-like tadpoles—obviously, my biggest beauty regret of all time.
Fast forward to six weeks later and I had the most luscious lashes I’d ever had and my brows were the fullest I’d seen them since 2003. As you can imagine, I was nothing short of thrilled—especially about my brows, since I’d come to terms with the possibility that they’d never grow back.
Of course, given my line of work, it comes with the territory to try a slew of new beauty products on the regular, so since my initial success with GrandeLASH (which is still my holy grail), I’ve also tried several others (over 20, to be exact) that have yielded equally as impressive results—and underperformed. If you’re considering getting lash extensions but are hesitant about making a commitment to the pricey and high-maintenance service (the upkeep requires bi-monthly visits for most people, at a minimum), consider giving eyelash-enhancing serums a try first.
GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum
This was the first lash-enhancing serum I've ever used, and I still think it's one of the best. I always end up going back to it. You don't have to take my word for it, though—its almost five-star rating is backed by over 26,000 glowing reviews. You can also get the one-month supply for just $36.
Olaplex Lashbond Building Serum
I’ve been using Olaplex’s bond-building formulas on my bleached hair for almost a decade, so it only makes sense that its lash serum is also a favorite of mine. The Prostaglandin-free formula helps restore volume and length without the side effects of some prescription serums (orbital fat loss, irritation, etc.). Olaplex also recently launched a new serum for brows, Browbond, and it’s equally as impressive as the original lash formula.
RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
This lash conditioner promotes accelerated growth while also boosting hydration and moisture, which prevents lashes from falling out.
RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum
This affordable lash serum is infused with the brand’s HEXATEIN 1 COMPLEX, containing six super-concentrated ingredients that promote the look of lash length and volume. It also contains polypeptides, which not only fortify the lashes but also prevent breakage.
Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Lash Serum
If you’re looking for a clean, vegan, and cruelty-free lash serum that won’t cause irritation or side effects, Thrive Cuasmetic’s Liquid Lash Extension Serum is a great option. Following the success of its coveted Liquid Lash Extension Mascara (which is incredible), the follow-up lash serum was a natural next move for the brand.
BabeLash Essential Lash Serum
This is another formula that got me on board with the power of lash growth serums. Babe Lash has a slew of lash and brow essentials serums, as well as conditioning counterparts, to amplify its volumizing effects. Plus, I didn't feel any eye or lid irritation with this formula.
NeoGenesis NeoLash Eyelash Serum
Like all of NeoGenesis’ clinical-forward formulas, their NeoLash lash-enhancing serum is backed by ample research to prove its efficacy. It's also a favorite among estheticians.
Milani Highly Rated Lash and Brow Serum
I love a two-in-one formula—especially one that's affordably priced. There aren't many drugstore lash and brow serums on the market, but if you are going to opt for an under $20 formula, this is the one to go with.
Shiseido Full Lash Serum
This relatively affordable lash growth serum is infused with arginine, a powerful active ingredient linked with helping boost hair growth. The gentle formula helps promote volume and length while conditioning each lash. This serum is especially great for those with sensitive eyes.
Lash Spell Enhancing Eyelash Serum
I will say that one of the downsides of using lash serums is irritation around my eyelids. While I want to enhance my lashes, I don’t want to enhance the look of my crow’s feet. If you have sensitive skin and/or eyes, Lash Spell’s serum is a must-try. The gentle formula helps build lash density sans side effects.
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