Is Lash Serum Bad for Your Eyes?

Posted Jan 23, 2023 | Eye Health

Are you one of the many people trying to cultivate longer, more luscious lashes? If so, then chances are you’ve heard of lash serum, the latest in a long line of beauty products that promise perfect, fluttering lashes. But how safe are lash boost products that promise to give you “natural” falsies? In general, anything you choose to use in or near your eyes should be discussed with an eye doctor before use. To help out, we’ve answered a few key questions about lash serums, and whether they might be right for you.

What is lash serum?

Generally speaking, lash “serums” are eyelash conditioners containing ingredients that help restore moisture and avoid breakage. Over-the-counter lash serums contain ingredients such as amino acids and collagen (proteins), peptides (short chains of amino acids), and prostaglandins (naturally occurring chemicals in the body) which may improve conditions for eyelashes to grow.

What are the risks of using eyelash serums?

There can be risks associated with lash boosting products, including:

Allergic reaction to ingredients
Unwanted hair growth on spots other than where the serum has made contact
Dry, itchy, and/or red eyes

You should stop wearing the product and consult your eye doctor if you notice side effects or changes in or around your eyes.

How should you apply lash serums?

You’ll want to follow the manufacturer’s directions closely and be sure to always use the applicator provided. Typically, you’ll want to start on the inner corner of your eye and work your way carefully to the outside.

Tips if you plan to use eyelash growth serum:

ALWAYS ask your doctor’s advice before using lash boosting products.
Take out your contact lenses before applying any serum to your lash line; contacts can absorb the serum.
Apply eye cream underneath your eyes as a barrier before applying eyelash serum.
Only use each applicator one time and check for expiration dates; do not use expired lash serums!
Don’t use if you have other eye related problems such as styes, macular edema, uveitis, pink eye, etc. unless otherwise advised by your doctor.

How to help your lashes grow naturally

If you’re deep in your research and starting to feel like serums just aren’t for you, then here are some helpful tips that will keep your lashes luscious and healthy without the help of supplements:

Take a mascara break. Mascara can help contribute to breakage and drying of the lashes. At a minimum make sure you’re washing your face every night and, if possible, find days throughout the week where you can live without.
Consider using a natural oil like vitamin E. There are products on the market designed to moisturize your skin and hair. Just check with your optometrist or ophthalmologist for the green light before applying them to your lashes.

Remember: Ask your eye doctor!

We have a network of over 38,000 eye doctors for you to choose from, so it’s easy to get a professional opinion about any concerns you have.

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Information received through VSP Vision Care's social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.