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Eyelash Enhancers Explained

We all want thicker,
fuller lashes, right?

 

It’s why we spend money on mascara,
false eyelashes, and other enhancements.
But when it comes to improving your lash look
through store-bought serums, you may
be wondering how they work.

 

By Christina Cannon

 

A Primer on Eyelash Growth

To understand lash growth serums, you first need to know a thing or two about eyelash growth. There are three different stages of the eyelash growth cycle, beginning with the anagen phase. This stage, which is when your lashes are actively growing, lasts about 30 days, and only 40% of your upper lashes and 15% of your lower lashes are in this phase at any given time. Each lash will grow and then stop at a certain length. (Ever heard of someone getting a lash cut? I didn’t think so.)
This brings us to the catagen phase, where hair follicles begin to shrink – this generally takes between two and three weeks. If an eyelash happens to fall out during this phase, it won’t grow back until the follicle has cycled back around to the anagen phase.
The final stage, known as the telogen phase, is considered a resting period. It can take more than 100 days before a lash falls out and a new one begins to grow, which starts the cycle over.

 

Shopping for Serums

Including a serum in your beauty routine is just one of several ways to speed up eyelash growth (hint: so is a healthy diet). Many retail serums that claim to stimulate lash growth work by strengthening lashes so that they are less likely to fall out or break. Some products also coat lashes with vitamins that can protect them from damage and add shine for a sleeker look.
There is only one FDA-approved eyelash growth treatment currently on the market, and it’s available by prescription. But that doesn’t mean over-the-counter serums won’t work – by vetting purchases, you can find a safe product that boosts results.
\When shopping for a serum, look for formulas that contain biotin, peptides, or lipids. Biotins are B vitamins that will help your lashes grow longer and thicker while also stimulating the growth of additional hair follicles. Lipids condition and moisturize your lashes, and peptides can help you achieve a healthier foundation for growth and a more voluminous appearance.

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