Lash Serums: The Secret to Longer, Healthier Lashes – Without the Risk
If you want fluttery, natural lashes, using an eyelash serum (or lash serum, as it’s more commonly called) may have crossed your mind. In theory, the results sound incredible: diligently apply a layer to your lashes each night, and within six weeks, you’ll be rewarded with longer, thicker, and healthier eyelashes.
But with all the hype comes concern. The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists has reported side effect concerns, including eye irritation and redness, increased iris pigmentation (darker irises), excessive hair growth, inflammation of the eyelids, skin hyperpigmentation, and loss of fatty tissue around the eye giving a sunken appearance; leaving some people wondering: Are lash serums worth the risk?
Here’s what you need to know before choosing a lash serum.
How Do Lash Serums Work?
Lash serums typically fall into two categories:
🔹 Peptide-based serums – These nourish and condition lashes, making them stronger and healthier over time.
🔹 Prostaglandin analog serums – These stimulate lash growth but come with potential side effects, including redness, irritation, and even permanent eye colour changes.
As lash serums have surged in popularity, reports of side effects have also increased. While redness and irritation are reversible, iris colour changes, fat loss and skin pigmentation changes are permanent. These effects are linked to prostaglandins, a type of ingredient originally used in glaucoma medications but now found in many lash growth formulas.
Ingredients to Avoid in Lash Serums
🚨 Prostaglandin Analogs (e.g., Isopropyl Cloprostenate) – Linked to redness, irritation, eye colour changes, and orbital fat loss.
🚨 Parabens – Can cause eye irritation.
🚨 Fragrances & Harsh Preservatives – May trigger allergic reactions or worsen dry eye symptoms.
🚨 Alcohol-based Formulas – Can dry out lashes and irritate the delicate eye area.
Best Lash Serums for Sensitive Eyes & Contact Lens Wearers
Our current favourite lash serum is Twenty/Twenty Beauty Get Growing Lash Serum. Why?
✔ Ophthalmologists-designed for dry, sensitive eyes
✔ Powered by peptides & biotin for lash health
✔ Free from prostaglandins & irritating chemicals
✔ Strengthens lashes without side effects
We also know of others in development, so more eye-friendly options are on their way.
How to Use Lash Serums Safely
🕊 Apply to clean, dry lashes – Use a thin layer along the lash line before bed.
👀 Avoid direct eye contact – Even safe formulas should stay on lashes, not in the eyes.
🚿 Be patient – Most lash serums take 4–8 weeks for visible results.
🗑 Replace every 3–6 months – Just like mascara, lash serums can harbor bacteria over time.
Get Beautiful Lashes Without Compromise
You don’t need to risk eye irritation, redness, or long-term damage to get stunning lashes.
✨ Choose a safe, nourishing lash serum designed for eye health
✨ Remember good lid & lash care (a.k.a eyelid hygiene) goes a long way to keeping the lashes in good condition.