Buzz
If you want naturally longer and thicker lashes, there are several methods you can try. While many of the following techniques are not scientifically proven, they are highly recommended by health professionals and those who enjoy at-home beauty treatments. People who have tried these methods claim to see results within a month.
Steps
Improve the Health and Hygiene of Your Lashes
Consume Foods That Support Healthy Hair Growth. The following foods have been shown to promote healthy hair growth:
- Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids, which help hair grow thick and shiny.
- Greek yogurt contains vitamin B5, which promotes blood circulation and maintains hair thickness.
- Spinach contains vitamin A, iron, beta carotene, folate, and vitamin C. These nutrients work together to keep hair strong and well-moisturized.
- Citrus fruits and guava are rich in vitamin C, which helps prevent hair breakage.
- Meat, fortified grains, and leafy greens provide the iron necessary to support hair growth.
- Lean poultry and other sources of lean protein support hair growth. Hair will stop growing if you don't get enough protein in your diet.
- Cinnamon improves blood circulation, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.
Use green tea both internally and externally. Studies have shown that green tea can promote hair growth. One animal study, in which rodents were given green tea for six months, revealed significant hair regrowth in previously bald patches.
- Green tea can also stimulate hair growth and soften hair when applied topically (directly to the skin/hair).
Use garlic both internally and externally. Research has indicated that garlic may support hair growth. One study found that patients treating bald patches with topical garlic experienced results within 2-4 weeks.
- Garlic supplements are available in most health food stores and pharmacies. Garlic in cream or gel form may be harder to find. You should consult a doctor if you can't locate these products at your pharmacy.
- Do not apply fresh garlic to your lashes as it can cause irritation and, not to mention, leave you smelling like garlic.
Remove makeup every night. Cosmetics can dry out your lashes, making them more brittle and prone to breakage or loss. Your eyes may also become irritated or develop styes if you don't remove your makeup before bed.
- A stye is a pimple that forms on the eyelid, typically around the lash line. Blocked oil glands and bacteria are the main causes of styes. Styes can also cause irritation, leading to lash loss.
- Waterproof mascara can be tough to remove, but it's essential to clean it off. Mascara can dry out your lashes, making them brittle. It's a good idea to avoid using mascara daily.
Be gentle when cleaning your eyelids and lashes. Use a gentle makeup remover for your eyes. Coconut oil is a great choice, as it both removes makeup and moisturizes your lashes. Coconut oil also has antibacterial properties.
- Another excellent method is to gently massage coconut oil into your eyelids and lashes, then use a cotton pad to absorb the oil and makeup.
- Be sure not to rub your eyes too hard to avoid lash loss.
Use a gentle facial cleanser after makeup removal. Once your makeup is fully removed, use a mild cleanser to wash your entire face, including your eyelids. This step helps remove any remaining oil.
- Your eyelids should be fairly clean after makeup removal, so simply apply the cleanser to your eyelids without rubbing.
Take a break from using eyelash cosmetics. It's advisable to avoid wearing makeup every day, especially mascara. Daily use of makeup can dry out your lashes and irritate your eyes, which could lead to lash breakage or even loss.
- If you need to wear makeup for work or school, try skipping makeup on weekends.
- At the very least, remove your makeup as soon as you get home and avoid going outside for the rest of the day.
Use lash-enhancing mascara. When applying mascara, opt for one that has lash-conditioning properties, as it not only serves as makeup but also nourishes the lashes. These formulas often contain ingredients that promote lash growth, helping them grow longer and thicker.
- Lash-conditioning mascaras provide nutrients from plant cell extracts, biotin, and amino acids to the lashes.
- Patience is key to seeing results, but if you've already been using mascara, it won't require much extra effort!
Avoid waterproof mascara. Waterproof mascara not only dries out your lashes but also makes removal more difficult compared to regular mascara. The harder it is to remove the mascara, the more likely your lashes are to fall out.
Be cautious when using false lashes and eyelash curlers. Both of these can apply pressure and tension to your lashes, potentially causing them to fall out. If you need to use an eyelash curler, apply gentle pressure rather than clamping down hard.
- When using an eyelash curler, remember to curl your lashes BEFORE applying mascara. Curling wet lashes increases the risk of lashes getting stuck in the curler and falling out.
Avoid rubbing or pulling your lashes. Whether you're washing your lashes or trying to remove something from your eye, avoid rubbing or pulling your lashes, as this can cause them to break or fall out.
- Rubbing your lashes means applying force with your fingers or other objects, causing a back-and-forth or up-and-down motion that strains the lashes.
- Keep in mind that rubbing your lashes is not the same as gently massaging your eyelids, which is a technique that can improve the health of both your eyelids and lashes.
Eye lid massage
Wash and dry your hands. Make sure your hands are clean and dry before performing an eyelid massage to avoid eye irritation or causing a stye.
Warm compress for your eyelids. You can also use a clean cloth soaked in warm water. Ensure that the water is not too hot to burn your skin. This step helps to open up the pores, deeply cleanse your eyelids and lash line.
Gently massage your eyelids and lash line. Use your fingers to gently stroke along the length of your eyelid towards your eye – stroke downwards when massaging the upper eyelid and upwards for the lower eyelid. Massaging these areas helps keep the pores clean, enhances blood circulation, and stimulates lash growth.
- Remember to be gentle while massaging your eyelids. The pressure should not be strong enough to cause discomfort to your eyelid or eyeball.
- You can massage with or without oil. If you choose to use oil, be cautious not to get it in your eyes, and wash your face thoroughly after the massage to prevent the oil from clogging your pores. Coconut oil is a great option due to its antibacterial properties.
Repeat 5-10 times for 30 seconds. Continue to stroke each eyelid for about 30 seconds on each side. If you feel any discomfort, reduce the pressure or take a short break.
Perform at least 2-3 times a week. Many people even massage their eyelids once daily.
Apply oil to your eyelashes.
Understand which oils are beneficial for your lashes. Many health professionals and beauty enthusiasts believe that the following oils can stimulate hair growth, though their true effectiveness still requires scientific validation:
- Castor oil is one of the most commonly recommended oils to help lashes grow longer and thicker. Be sure to choose a natural, hexane-free brand.
- Cedarwood oil is a stimulant that promotes hair growth.
- Coconut oil, rich in lauric acid, can enhance hair health and growth by preventing protein loss.
- Extra virgin olive oil, with its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, may help make lashes thicker and fuller.
- Jojoba oil has long been celebrated as a natural hair treatment. It has been proven to moisturize and nourish hair, potentially stimulating growth.
- Moroccan argan oil is rich in antioxidants and serves as a moisturizer while providing nutrients to the hair.
- Rosemary oil stimulates hair follicles, improves hair growth, and boosts blood circulation.
- Vitamin E oil can be used both topically and as a supplement to promote hair growth.
Dilute the oil. Some oils, like coconut or olive oil, can be applied directly to the lashes without dilution. However, essential oils with strong fragrances may irritate the eyes if not diluted with a carrier oil.
- Extra virgin olive oil and jojoba oil are commonly used to dilute essential oils. The amount you use depends on personal preference, but you may want to start with 2-4 drops of essential oil mixed with each teaspoon of carrier oil.
Know the formula for making lash serum. A popular lash serum formula combines ½ teaspoon of coconut oil with 2-4 drops of lavender essential oil. You can even mix the ingredients in the palm of your hand.
- If you want to make a larger batch, use the same ratio with larger quantities and store the mixture in a sealed container, keeping it away from light.
Clean the eye area. Make sure the eye area is free from makeup or dirt. Gently wash the area with your hands, being careful not to rub or press hard on the eyes and eyelashes.
Apply oil or an oil mixture to your eyelashes. You can use a cotton swab or your finger for this. Start at the base of your lashes and gently sweep towards the tips.
Be careful, avoid letting the oil get into your eyes. Essential oils can sting the eyes, so take care not to let the oil drip into your eyes while applying. If the oil gets into your eyes, rinse with cool, clean water.
- To rinse your eyes, you can use your hands or a bowl filled with cool or lukewarm water, then gently dip your eyes into the water. Blink continuously, then discard the water. Repeat several times if necessary until your eyes feel clean.
Leave it overnight. It's best to apply the serum to your eyelashes before sleeping to give the serum time to absorb into the lashes.
Wash your eyes the next morning. Be sure to clean your eyes thoroughly the next morning to prevent clogged follicles and glands. Wash gently – do not rub your eyes!
Repeat a few times each week. If any irritation occurs, stop using any oils you're applying to your eyelashes immediately.
Use oil-based balm to nourish and lengthen eyelashes.
Understand why oil balm works on lashes. There is no scientific evidence to support the long-standing belief that oil balms stimulate lash growth, but many individuals claim to have seen success with this method.
- Many people believe that the effectiveness of oil balm comes from its ability to create a protective layer, making lashes stronger and less prone to breakage before they reach their maximum length.
Be aware of the risks. While oil balms are generally considered safe, there has been recent concern about the potential risks of exposure to carcinogenic chemicals found in some oil-based products derived from oil balms.
- Some people avoid using oil balm not due to health concerns, but because of environmental issues, as oil balm is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource.
- Allergic reactions to oil balm are rare but still possible, so caution is advised. Additionally, oil balm is sticky, and applying it to your lashes can clog the pores on your eyelids and lash lines, leading to irritation or styes.
Buy oil balm. Vaseline is a popular brand, but you can also find other less-known brands. If you prefer to avoid petroleum-based balm, look for oil-free versions at health stores. Synthetic versions are also available.
- You can also make your own oil-free balm by mixing 1/8 cup (about 30g) of beeswax with ½ cup of olive oil in a small pan, heating both ingredients over low heat in a double boiler, then pouring the mixture into a jar and allowing it to cool.
Purchase a mascara wand or cotton swabs. Both of these items can be found at supermarkets, beauty stores, or dollar stores.
- If you prefer to use a mascara wand but don't want to buy one, you can ask at the cosmetics counter for a single-use wand to try out products and makeup on-site.
- If using a disposable mascara wand, make sure to wash it thoroughly after each use with a gentle cleanser (baby shampoo works great) and warm water.
Clean your eyelids and eyelashes. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to wash your eyelids and lashes, being careful not to rub or apply too much pressure. This step ensures your eyelids and lashes are free from dirt or impurities, such as leftover makeup.
Apply oil balm to your eyelashes. Dip a cotton swab into the oil balm and gently swipe along the lash line, avoiding direct contact with your eyes. Then, use your fingers to apply a small amount of the balm and smooth it along the lashes between your thumb and index finger.
- You can also apply the oil balm to your lashes just like you would apply mascara using a clean mascara wand.
Apply oil balm before bed or use it as a mascara replacement. When applied before bed, the oil balm will stay on your lashes overnight. You can also use the oil balm in place of mascara. While it won’t give the dramatic effect of mascara, it will still enhance the appearance of your lashes.
- Some people apply the oil balm underneath their mascara to keep the lashes moisturized and help the mascara last longer, while others find that the balm can cause the mascara to smudge.
Do this at least three times a week. If you’re only applying it before bed, aim to do this at least three times per week.
Make sure to thoroughly clean your eyelids and eyelashes. Use a gentle facial cleanser to remove any oil balm from your lashes and eyelids.
Do not apply oil balm all day long. It’s important to allow your eyelids and lashes to rest; otherwise, you risk clogging the pores, which could lead to lash loss or at least halt their growth.
- If you use oil balm instead of mascara, do not apply it at night.
- If using oil balm at night, avoid using it throughout the entire day.
Wait for results in 2-4 weeks. Most people claim that oil balm helps lashes grow longer and thicker. You should notice a difference a few weeks after applying the oil balm, as long as you apply it consistently.
- Although many individuals report longer and thicker lashes with the use of oil balm, there is no scientific evidence proving these claims.
Advice
- If you must use mascara, choose one formulated to promote lash growth. Rimmel's Lash Accelerator is a popular choice.
- There are many serums on the market that are marketed to help lashes grow longer. Be sure to read reviews online before purchasing a product, as not all are equally effective, and some may even cause irritation or allergic reactions.
- Apply castor oil to your lashes and be patient, as it may take some time before you see results.
Warning
- If you have a stye or any other issues related to your eyelids, be cautious about what you apply to your eyelids and eyelashes. If you're unsure which products are safe for your health condition, consult a doctor.
- The eyes and the skin around them are very sensitive. If you experience irritation from anything you apply to your lashes, stop using it immediately. Seek medical advice if the irritation persists after discontinuing the product.
- Using oils around the eyes may cause puffiness and dark circles. You can prevent this by thoroughly cleaning the eye area.
