There are some basic steps you can incorporate into your beauty routine to lengthen and nourish your eyelashes. While some believe they don’t require much maintenance, brushing them and applying certain products can actually improve their appearance. Want to make them stand out for a more captivating look?
Having long, strong eyelashes is a matter of health. They help prevent microorganisms and particles from entering the eyes, which can cause infections, irritation, and itching. Furthermore, they serve an aesthetic function by highlighting the eyes and making them more expressive.
Therefore, it’s no surprise that today there are numerous products and techniques focused on improving their appearance and strengthening them. Likewise, we find remedies and tips for nourishing them and stimulating their growth naturally. We’ll detail these below.
1. Brush your eyelashes
One of the recommended habits for eyelash care is daily brushing. Proponents of this practice suggest that gentle brushing stimulates the proper distribution of natural oils along the lashes, keeping them stronger and longer. A clean mascara wand does this job well.
How is it used?
- Take the brush and gently rub it over your eyelashes, from the roots to the tips, just like when you’re curling them.
- Brush your teeth for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat 2 or 3 times a day.
2. Castor oil
One of the most popular products for those seeking to nourish their eyelashes naturally is castor oil. Obtained from the Ricinus communis plant, it is rich in a monounsaturated fatty acid, ricinoleic acid, which acts as a moisturizer. It is volatile, thick, and has a sticky consistency.
According to Healthline, some evidence suggests that this product may help reverse hair loss. However, there are no studies that prove it promotes eyelash growth. Claims regarding these properties are purely anecdotal.
Online testimonials claim that frequent use of the product helped strengthen and lengthen eyelashes. However, this only occurred after several weeks of use. Fortunately, it is a product whose topical use is generally safe and well-tolerated.
How is it used?
To begin, make sure you purchase pure castor oil. You can find two versions on the market: cold-pressed castor oil (light in color) and Jamaican black castor oil (dark in color). The latter is often preferred for cosmetic treatments.
Once you have the oil, perform a small patch test. Apply a small amount to your forearm and observe for any reactions. If there is no allergy, itching, or irritation, it can be used safely.
Before applying it to your eyelashes, make sure they are clean and free of mascara residue.
Dip an eyelash brush or cotton swab into the oil and gently apply it along your upper lash line. Be careful not to get the product in your eye.
Apply the product along the length of your eyelashes and leave it on overnight without rinsing.
Repeat the application every day, before going to bed.
3. Almond oil
Moisturizing eyelashes with almond oil has become a beauty trend on social media platforms like TikTok. While its effects on stimulating eyelash growth are based on anecdotal evidence, it’s no secret that it’s an ideal ingredient for hydrating and nourishing lashes.
A review published in Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety states that this product is rich in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. Oleic acid is its main component. It also contains tocopherols and phytosterols, which further contribute to its health benefits.
How is it used?
The procedure is similar to the previous one; clean the eyelashes well and apply a thin layer of almond oil with the help of a brush or a cotton swab.
Don’t forget to apply a small amount along your lash line. Leave it on overnight without rinsing. If you like, you can repeat the process in the morning, but only after applying it to clean lashes.
4. Olive oil
An age-old remedy for nourishing and lengthening eyelashes naturally is olive oil. While no specific studies have been conducted on this, it is known to be rich in fatty acids that promote hair growth.
According to Healthline, the oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid in this ingredient have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that can be used to benefit eyelashes.
In the publication, dermatologist Dendy Engelman explains that these fatty acids help condition eyelashes, soften the skin, and promote healthy follicle growth.
How is it used?
- At night, before going to bed, dip an eyelash brush into olive oil.
- Apply to clean eyelashes from root to tip until they are covered with the product.
- Leave it on without rinsing until the next day.
- Repeat application every night; results may be noticeable between two and four months after starting use.
5. Vaseline
Recently, a trend on TikTok popularized the application of petroleum jelly to lengthen and nourish eyelashes. Users promoting its use claim it can replace mascara, as it allows for curling with just a thin layer and the help of an eyelash curler.
However, this product is also said to moisturize dry eyelashes, help reduce breakage, and give them a fuller appearance. Nevertheless, there is no evidence to support these claims. Its effects are based solely on anecdotal evidence.
How is it used?
- Clean your eyelashes thoroughly before applying the product.
- Now, using a brush, take some petroleum jelly and apply it to the eyelash curler, right in the area where the eyelashes go.
- Curl your eyelashes with the brush to achieve a lifting effect without mascara.
- If your goal is to hydrate, use a brush to apply the product from the roots to the ends.
- Repeat the application every night before going to bed.
6. Vitamin E oil
To date, no research has been conducted on the effects of vitamin E on eyelashes; however, the potential of this nutrient for skin and hair health has been evaluated. A review published in the journal Antioxidants notes that topical application of vitamin E acts as an antioxidant.
Furthermore, it prevents premature aging, expands capillaries, and thus increases blood flow to the scalp. In this way, it contributes to scalp growth and hydration. Popular literature attributes similar benefits when applied to eyelashes.
How is it used?
- Remove any traces of makeup or dirt from the eyelashes.
- Dip a clean mascara brush into the vitamin E oil.
- Glide the product from the base to the tips of your lashes. You can also do this with your lower lashes.
- Repeat the treatment every night before going to bed.
7. Try vitamin supplements
Some vitamins, such as those in the B complex, C, and E, are recommended to promote healthy hair and eyelash growth.
These can be obtained through food or through vitamin supplements.
These latter products are usually recommended for hair problems such as breakage and hair loss. In any case, their use should be under medical supervision.
Other recommendations
Consistently implementing these tips for lengthening and nourishing eyelashes can be helpful in improving their appearance. However, it’s important to keep in mind that other factors influence their length, volume, and growth.
The most important factor is genetics; this explains why some people have thicker and longer eyelashes than others, even without using specific treatments. Nutrition is also key, as hair growth requires vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats.
Other basic care includes the following:
- Daily cleansing. It’s essential to remove all traces of makeup from your lashes. Leaving mascara on can harden and break them. Makeup remover wipes and micellar water help with this.
- Sun protection. Excessive sun exposure can cause dryness and breakage of the hair follicles. To avoid this, be sure to wear sunglasses. If possible, choose masks and serums that contain sunscreen.
- Reduce your use of eyelash curlers. This tool helps lengthen eyelashes. However, excessive use can cause weakening and breakage. Use it in moderation, always with proper care.
- Use good-quality makeup. Poor quality cosmetics not only leave a bad finish, but can also cause eye irritation and damage to eyelashes. Try to choose a mascara from a reputable brand. If possible, look for one that contains collagen and vitamin E.