If there's one thing I've been consistently complimented on over the past year, it's my lashes. And for the sake of this article, you'll have to forgive my not-so-humble bragging. But I've lost count of how many times people have asked me, ‘Are those your real eyelashes?’ or ‘Are you wearing false lashes to the office?!’ – and I have a zero tolerance policy for gatekeeping.
My response is always the same: ‘Yes, these are my real lashes, and no, who is out here applying falsies every day? It’s a combination of two things: this insanely good mascara, but more importantly, consistent application of my go-to lash serum.’
If you're inwardly eye-rolling, I get it. Lash serums are all the rage and while they sound like yet another fleeting beauty fad, I'm living proof that they work. I started using a lash serum a year ago, but I saw noticeable results in just two weeks. By the time I'd used it for 3 months, my lashes were so long and thick that people started commenting on them.
Zero clumps or smudges — you're welcome!
What are lash serums and how do they work?
“Lash serums are topical treatments that are applied to your eyelashes to enhance their natural growth,” says Dr Amy Vowler, Hair Restoration Doctor at Hair GP. “They do this by nourishing the lash follicle and stimulating dormant follicles, encouraging them to produce stronger hairs. Lash serums create lasting change by extending the hairs' growth phase, leading to gradual but semi-permanent thicker, longer lashes.”
Dr Vowler explains that cosmetic-grade lash serums – the ones readily available to us – are peptide-based and contain ingredients such as amino acids, botanical extracts and vitamins. They reduce breakage and make lashes look fuller and shinier, but they don't change the lash cycle directly.
“The growth phase of an eyelash is shorter than the hair on your scalp, lasting only 30-45 days before being replaced,” she explains. “With consistent lash serum use, most people notice an improvement in 6-12 weeks, but because you're not altering your lash cycle, you'll notice your lashes gradually returning to their old pattern once you stop using the serum.”
Are there key ingredients to look out for?
Not all lash serums are built the same, but because the market has become so saturated, it can be difficult to know which one to pick.
“The ones to look for are ones with ingredients that nourish and strengthen lashes by improving follicle health and hair shaft condition,” advises Dr Vowler. These include:
- Peptides (e.g. Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17): signal proteins that support keratin production
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5): hydrates and strengthens the lash shaft
- Hyaluronic acid: moisturises lashes and prevents brittle breaking
- Amino acids (argine): support blood flow to the follicle root
- Plant extracts, such as pumpkin seed or green tea: provide antioxidants and mild follicle stimulation.
My go-to lash serum
I've tried a few lash serums that have landed on my desk, but none have yielded such quick and effective results as the Revitalash Advanced Eyelash Serum. At £59 for a 1.5 month supply, increasing to £99 for a three month supply and £139 for a six month supply, it isn't the cheapest lash serum on the market, but for the sake of my honest, unsponsored review, it's the best I've used.
RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
- Key ingredients: BioPeptin Complex, ginseng and Swertia Japonica extracts, saw palmetto, amino acids and vitamin B.
- When to apply: Once a day, but allow to dry completely (2-3 minutes) before applying eye makeup or going to sleep.
- Results after use: 98% of testers reported stronger, healthier-looking lashes.
Why we love it: A gentle yet mighty formula that's developed by physicians and is clinically approved by both ophthalmologists and dermatologists. It contains a biopeptin complex packed with biotin, green tea, peptides and lipids, which work together to help strengthen lashes and stimulate healthy hair growth. Plus, this bestselling lash growth serum is also packed with plenty of natural ingredients, including plant and flower extracts, as well as vitamins and antioxidants. And did we mention it's also hypoallergenic, oil-free, vegan, cruelty-free and suitable for sensitive skin? One swipe along the lash line each evening is all it takes to achieve the lashes of your dreams in a matter of weeks.
“I started to see the difference after 3-4 weeks of use, so much so that everyone around the office started asking whether I was wearing eyelash extensions. I didn't notice any irritation whatsoever, and the results speak for themselves,” says Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior European Commerce Editor.
The brand describes their lash serum as “a one-of-a-kind, ophthalmologist-developed eyelash conditioner that enhances the look of lashes and protects against breakage, while improving health, flexibility and strength. This vegan-friendly, cruelty-free formula features the brand’s proprietary BioPeptin Complex, a breakthrough blend of vitamins and nutrients that fortifies, hydrates, and beautifies lashes, along with giving them a natural curl, bringing you the patented Curl Effect.”
It's not just me who's fully behind the hype. One tube of Revitalash Advanced is sold every 30 seconds, while 12 million have been sold since 2007.
How do I apply it?
“A consistent routine is the key to achieving optimal results,” explains Claire Larsen, Global Master Educator at Revitalash. “For best results, we recommend applying your preferred RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner once each day or night – and don’t bother wasting your money, using it more than once a day won’t yield 'better' or faster results. Apply a thin line directly to your clean, dry eyelashes, above the lash line only, avoiding lower lash application.
Results will vary depending on the individual, but results can often be seen almost immediately and will increase over time.”
Is there anyone who shouldn't use a lash serum?
Yes, there are some people who should exercise caution with lash serums, or avoid use altogether, advises Dr Vowler. These include:
- those with allergic reactions to any of the ingredients
- those with sensitive skin, such as eczema, rosacea, blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), or those with chronic dry eyes.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as there is limited safety data around the ingredients.
- Those with eye conditions should always speak to their ophthalmologist first, while those with glaucoma, uveitis or eye infections should avoid use altogether.
- Those of who have had eye surgery, such as LASIK, in the last 6 months should wait until their ophthalmologist says it is safe.
- Those using prescription lash growth drops, such as Latisse/bimatoprost, as layering treatments can cause reaction.
- Those who wear contact lenses should exercise caution and make sure to apply after removing lenses.
