Longer Lashes, But at What Cost? Lash Serums and their Potential Danger
The idea of longer lashes sounds incredibly enticing, which is why lash serums have gained serious popularity over the last few years. With longer lashes, you could wear less mascara and even skip on lash extensions or tints — sounds pretty nice, doesn’t it? While a lash serum could make your lashes appear healthy and longer in the short term, it could end up doing more harm than good. But before applying a product to such a delicate area like around the eyes, it’s important to understand the potential side effects.
How do lash serums work?
Like the hair on our heads, lashes also go through a growth cycle. Lash serums work by extending the growth phase (otherwise known as anagen phase) of the cycle, resulting in longer, darker lashes. Most of the serums people use today can be purchased over the counter, but there are some prescription options like Latisse. This drug contains prostaglandin and must be obtained with a prescription from a doctor, however, it has been banned in Australia due to side effects. It can cause hyperpigmentation and hair growth in other areas, and some people have reported changes to their eyes’ appearance. Over-the-counter lash serums are usually made with peptides. These are short-chain amino acids that build up proteins.
Results aren’t visible right away, and it can take months before any additional length is noticed.
The dangers of lash serums
There have been many videos floating around on TikTok and Instagram that share the potential negative side effects of lash serums. In addition to a slew of unhappy lash serum users, studies have revealed that a certain ingredient called prostaglandin analogs (PGAs) has been linked to irritation around the eyes, taking the form of scaling, redness, and inflammation. In severe cases, some brands of lash serum can cause an allergic reaction that may lead to vision problems.
It’s important to know that prostaglandin analogs aren’t a naturally derived ingredient and serve a purpose in the pharmaceutical realm. Prostaglandin analogs such as travorpost, latanoprost, and bimatoprost are used to treat ocular hypotension and glaucoma.
Unfortunately, the side effects don’t stop at irritation and potential vision loss — they get worse. Frequent use of a lash serum containing prostaglandin analogs could result in the darkening of skin around the eyes and of the iris, iris cysts, uveitis (inflammation of the inside of your eye), cystoid macular edema, and more.
Orbital fat loss can also occur with the use of a lash serum containing prostaglandin analogs as the ingredient may shrink the fat cells around the eye. When this occurs, the eyes appear more sunken in and the eyelid area is deepened.
Simply put, don’t turn a blind eye to the ingredients found in the products you apply on your lashes or around your eyes.
Natural ways to promote lash growth
The good news is that you don’t have to risk your health for longer, thicker eyelashes — there are some natural remedies you can try. What’s even better is that these tricks cost much less than lash serums and can be done at home.
Keeping your eyelashes well-hydrated is the first way to promote growth. This can be done by applying aloe vera gel to your lashes with a spoulie before going to bed every night. If you don’t have aloe vera gel around your house, you can also use coconut oil, castor oil, or even olive oil.
Clean, moisturized eyelashes are much more likely to grow as opposed to lashes that are dirty. You should never sleep with eye makeup on, especially mascara, as this can cause lash breakage and even result in infections or irritation.
It’s also crucial to sleep on a clean pillowcase to avoid the transfer of dirt and makeup residue to your lashes. Brushing your lashes on a frequent basis can also help keep them tamed, growing, and in the right direction.
If your heart is set on trying a lash serum, opting for a formula made with clean, plant-derived ingredients will promote growth without compromising your health. Use the Think Dirty App to search for clean lash serum options that won’t interfere with your well-being.
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