As a beauty columnist, I thought I knew everything about caring for my eyelashes. And now that I forgot a few eyelash extension appointments, my lashes are experiencing terrible fallouts.
My once fluffy, perfectly curled lashes have quickly transformed into a web of thin, spidery-looking lashes with sporadic patches of what seems like almost pure baldness.
Naturally, I always blame it on my greasy eyelids. But in all honesty, my short-lived lashes have less to do with the amount of sebum clinging to my upper lids and more with what I’m doing. Now I’m jonesing for natural lush lashes, but how do I enhance my eyelash growth?
There are several DIY methods in the internet’s underbelly; some of the most-practiced habits — the ones many of us follow — but do more harm than good.
So, if you’re also dealing with sparse eyelashes or just looking to ditch eyelash extensions, here are several methods that improve eyelash growth backed by science.
5 Best Home Remedies for Eyelash Growth
Here are a few methods to improve your lashes’ growth from the comfort of your home.
1. Aloe Vera
Since ancient times, most people have used aloe vera as a home remedy for various skin issues. In the past few years, aloe vera has also gained popularity as a remedy for hair loss.
While no scientific proof supports the claim that aloe vera can help eyelashes grow, some people swear by the plant. The theory is that aloe vera’s nutrients can help nourish the hair follicles and encourage growth.
Aloe vera also possesses anti-inflammatory and moisture-retaining qualities that could support healthy lash growth and reduce breakage.
However, aloe vera’s ability to promote lash growth needs further validation. For now, it remains a well-liked home remedy worth trying if you are looking for longer, healthier lashes.
How to use it
If you want to try aloe vera gel, apply it to your lashes before bed. Utilizing an eyelash brush to spread the gel evenly is another tip that you may find helpful.
2. Castor Oil
While we use castor oil in everything from laxatives to skincare, there isn’t enough research that supports the claim that castor oil can spark hair or eyelash growth. However, preliminary studies seem promising.
Some studies indicate that one of the chemical compounds found in castor oil can potentially reverse hair loss, but further research is needed. Despite the insufficient scientific evidence, castor oil remains a popular DIY remedy for eyelash growth — even among dermatologists.
“Castor oil has proven to increase brow and lash hair growth,” says Anna Guanche, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Bella Skin Institute. “However, it is oily — some people break out from it, and there are also some people who are allergic to it. But generally, it works.”
Castor oil for eyelashes is also a favorite of Michele Green, MD, of RealSelf. She advises combining aloe vera and castor oil to make your DIY eyelash growth serum, which you can use to coat your lashes at night.
According to Green, “this mixture encourages hair development and makes the lashes dense, making them appear thicker.”
How to use it
Dip a cotton swab into a little castor oil and apply it on top of your eyelashes while ensuring that none drips into your eyes. Apply the castor oil before going to bed and wash it off in the morning using warm water and a clean towel.
3. Coconut and Almond Oil
Did you know eyelash growth coconut and almond oil are now a thing too? Well, they are; however, little scientific evidence supports this claim.
That does not imply that coconut or almond oils are not beneficial for your lashes.
According to an older study, coconut oil may help stop hair protein loss. While we’re unsure if coconut oil helps stimulate hair growth, it does help keep your hair healthy, which could help with appearance.
Similar to coconut oil, there is just insufficient data on the effects of sweet almond oil on eyelash growth. However, almond oil helps nourish hair follicles and keeps them from falling out. Blessing you with longer, fuller lashes to rival any falsies,
How to use it
Dip a fresh brush or mascara wand into your coconut oil and carefully apply the oil to your eyelashes just like you would mascara. Apply to both the top and bottom lashes, and then use a cotton pad to wipe away any extra oil from your skin.
4. Vitamin E Oil
Another famous solution for a DIY lash growth serum is Vitamin E oil. Numerous studies suggest that vitamin E oil can promote hair growth in people experiencing hair loss, but researchers believe it’s related to Vitamin E’s ability to reduce oxidative stress on the scalp rather than stimulate hair follicles.
A different study contends that excessive vitamin E may hinder hair development. According to the study, vitamin E oil alone doesn’t increase hair growth, but castor oil is rich in vitamin E, hence the confusion.
How to use it
Use a spoolie to apply vitamin E oil at night and wash your eyes in the morning. You can apply it daily, as there are no side effects. For thicker growth, you can also combine coconut oil and vitamin E oil and apply the mixture to your lashes.
5. Petroleum Jelly
Are you busy rubbing petroleum jelly over everything from your dry skin to your empty bank account but hesitant to use it near your eyes?
I can understand why but there is no need to worry.
Petroleum jelly is an old-age method used to strengthen eyelashes. Petroleum jelly has a natural hydrating agent that helps strengthen your lashes. It’s rich in emollients which are useful for hair growth functions.
How to use it
You can use petroleum jelly on your lashes daily. You dont need to apply this overnight; you can apply it during the day.
For effective results, repeat the practice for a month. And here is the best part; petroleum jelly is safe for the eyes.
Other Options for Eyelash Growth
Several other DIY techniques for eyelash growth are becoming more popular, but none have been scientifically shown to work. They include:
- Green tea– According to some reports, green tea has antioxidant qualities that support healthy eyelash growth and health.
- Shea Butter– Shea butter has excellent moisturizing properties and contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that nourish your eyelashes and encourage healthy growth.
So According to Experts
Coconut oil, castor oil, vitamin E oil, petroleum jelly, and aloe vera are safe for your eyelashes and the skin around your eyes. They are the best DIY eyelash growth methods.
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