Do Lash Serums Stop Working? An Expert's Perspective

When you start using an eyelash serum, it's possible that some of your eyelashes are in the telogen phase, which is when they naturally fall out as part of the eyelash hair cycle. Prostaglandin-derived serums have been reported to act by inducing the anagen phase (growth phase) while eyelashes are already in their final stage. Therefore, when you stop using an eyelash growth product, your growth cycle will return to the natural phase and, as a result, they may appear scarcer. To maintain results, it's best to use these products routinely.

Peptide and vitamin serums don't alter the eyelash cycle. If too much Lash Boost is applied to the upper eyelid, irritation can occur; however, with a light application, I experience no side effects and excellent results. If you have dry or sensitive eyes, it's best to avoid chemical-based eyelash growth products and opt for argan oil or coconut oil of pure origin or a tea tree oil-based cleanser without preservatives to remove makeup every night. Isopropyl cloprostenate (ICP) is a cosmetic ingredient, not a medical ingredient like that found in prescription eyelash products, and thus does not come with associated side effects.

If you skip days or go weeks without reapplying your eyelash serum, you'll stop seeing results. They can help keep eyelashes healthy (and grow longer by preventing breakage), but they don't contain active pharmaceutical ingredients that have been shown to improve eyelash growth. Asako (left) and Naoko (right) are certified eyelash stylists and owners of Divine Lashes, a site for eyelash lovers to meet and learn more about eyelash extensions and tightening. I would love to read any research done on over-the-counter prostaglandin analogs in eyelash growth serum that investigates rates of Meibomian gland dysfunction or ocular surface disease with tests such as tear rupture time, MMP-9 or inflammatory cytokines on the surface of the eye.

The formula contains ceramides to nourish eyelashes and make them thicker, brighter and more flexible, and has 10 percent rhamnose (a birch extract that supposedly fills wrinkles and firms the skin). It has been reported that there is a possible low-risk side effect due to eye discoloration when using eyelash serums with ingredients derived from prostaglandin. To demonstrate my results, I took some pictures of my eyelashes before I started using the serum and after 6 weeks. It was this overwhelming demand from market research that led Allergan to launch Latisse, its successful eyelash growth serum that shows clinically significant changes in eyelash length, thickness and darkness after 16 weeks of use. Flawless Lashes by Loreta is an award-winning beauty company that offers high-quality eyelash and brow products, as well as a training academy for those who want to learn how to do eyelash extensions, brow lamination and eyelash tightening.

I only used Rodan & Fields' eyelash serum for 2 nights and now my eyes feel uncomfortable. I have broken capillaries on the eyelids where I applied the serum and my eyes feel dry. It's not always so obvious if an eyelash serum contains ingredients derived from prostaglandin since they don't appear in the ingredient list as “prostaglandin” but rather as “isopropyl cloprostenate”, “phenylhydroxypentene”, “dihydroxycyclopentylheptene” or “dechloro dihydroxy difluoro ethylcloprostenolamide” just to name a few. This unique formula includes cannabis seed extract to condition and strengthen hair, plant peptides to make eyelashes and eyebrows appear thicker, and quinoa to keep follicles healthy. In conclusion, when you stop using an eyelash serum it's likely that your lashes will return to their natural state; however, if you want to maintain results it's best to use these products routinely.

Additionally, peptide and vitamin serums don't change the natural cycle of your lashes but can help keep them healthy by preventing breakage. Lastly, be aware of any potential side effects associated with prostaglandin-derived serums.

Kirsty Matthews
Kirsty Matthews

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