Eyelashes that are thick and long have long been seen as a sign of both health and beauty. Some people may believe their eyelashes are short, sparse, or thinning, while others are fortunate enough to have naturally full lashes. Thankfully, there are numerous natural solutions, lifestyle choices, and medical procedures that can support longer, thicker, and healthier lashes. We'll look at several efficient natural and medicinal ways to grow out your eyelashes in this post.
The Growth of Eyelashes
Similar to the hair on your scalp, eyelashes grow naturally in three stages:
- Anagen (Growth) Phase: The active growth phase, known as the anagen (growth) phase, lasts for 30 to 45 days. At any given time, about 40% of your upper lashes are in this stage.
- Catagen (Transition) Phase: This stage, which lasts two to three weeks, is when the lashes stop growing and the follicle starts to shrink.
- Telogen (Resting) Phase: The longest phase, known as the telogen (resting) phase, lasts for at least 100 days. During this stage, lashes will fall out on their own to create room for new development.
You must concentrate on promoting the anagen phase and shielding the lashes from harm during the resting phase if you want longer and fuller eyelashes.
Natural Remedies to Enhance Eyelashes
In order to protect and feed their lashes and help them grow longer and thicker over time, many people resort to natural solutions.
1. Castor Oil
For generations, castor oil has been used to encourage hair growth. Ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory qualities and may help stop lash thinning, is abundant in it. Additionally, castor oil seals in moisture and feeds hair follicles, making lashes look thicker.
How to Use:
- On a clean cotton swab or mascara brush, dab a tiny bit of cold-pressed castor oil.
- Before going to bed, gently massage the oil into your lashes.
- Use warm water to wash it off in the morning.
2. Coconut Oil
Eyelashes can be naturally conditioned with coconut oil. Because of its moisturizing qualities, lashes are less likely to break and can grow in a healthier environment. Its antibacterial qualities also guard against infections in the hair follicles.
How to Use:
- Apply a tiny bit of virgin coconut oil to your lashes using a cotton swab or a clean mascara wand.
- In the morning, wipe it off after letting it sit overnight.
3. Vitamin E Oil
Another well-known treatment for encouraging hair growth is vitamin E oil. It may help promote eyelash growth by fortifying hair follicles and boosting circulation.
How to Use:
- Using a clean cotton swab or mascara wand, puncture a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil straight to your lashes.
- To get the most out of it, leave it overnight.
4. Aloe Vera Gel
Nutrients found in aloe vera gel help to nourish the skin and hair. By applying it to your lashes, you can keep your hair hydrated and conditioned while also encouraging lash growth.
How to Use:
- Before going to bed, dab your lashes with a tiny bit of fresh aloe vera gel.
- Use lukewarm water to rinse it off in the morning.
5. Green Tea:
Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, green tea may support healthier lash growth. Green tea's caffeine and flavonoids can activate hair follicles and promote the growth of lashes.
How to Use:
- Make a cup of green tea without sugar and let it cool.
- Apply the tea to your lashes with a cotton pad.
- Allow it to air dry.
Lifestyle Habits to Protect and Grow Your Lashes
Making a few lifestyle adjustments in addition to using natural therapies will assist support the health of your eyelashes.
1. Eat a Balanced Diet
Like the rest of your body, healthy eyelashes need the proper nutrition. A diet high in iron, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and biotin can aid in strengthening and encouraging the growth of lashes.
- Biotin: Eggs, almonds, and avocados are good sources of biotin, which promotes hair development.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Flaxseeds, walnuts, and salmon are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy hair follicles.
- Protein: Vital for healthy hair, protein may be found in lean meats, beans, and dairy products.
2. Remove Makeup Gently
When taking off eye makeup, excessive rubbing or tugging might weaken and break your lashes. To remove makeup without harming the lashes, use a cotton pad and a mild, oil-based makeup remover.
3. Avoid Eyelash Extensions and Heavy Mascara Use
Although thick mascara and eyelash extensions might provide the appearance of thicker lashes, they can gradually decrease your natural lashes. Use them only on rare occasions, and after wearing them, make sure to completely clean your lashes.
4. Brush Your Lashes
By increasing blood flow to the lash follicles, brushing your lashes can promote development. Every day, lightly brush your lashes with a clean mascara wand.
5. Stay Hydrated
Water consumption is crucial for the general health of your hair, especially your eyelashes. Proper hydration encourages healthy development and keeps the hair follicles hydrated.
Medical Treatments for Longer Eyelashes
Medical therapies are also available to assist grow longer and thicker eyelashes if lifestyle modifications and natural cures are insufficient.
1. Latisse (Bimatoprost)
The only FDA-approved therapy for eyelash growth is Latisse. This prescription drug causes the eyelashes to grow longer, thicker, and darker by stimulating their growth phase.
How it Works:
- Every day, use a sterile applicator to apply Latisse to the upper lash line.
- Within 4–8 weeks, results start to show, and in roughly 16 weeks, they are fully developed.
Side Effects:
- Some persons may notice discoloration of the skin around the application site or discomfort of their eyes.
- Before beginning Latisse, it's crucial to speak with a doctor to see if it's right for you.
2. Eyelash Serums
Although they lack Latisse's main ingredient, over-the-counter eyelash serums are made to encourage lash development. To strengthen and extend lashes, these serums frequently include vitamins, peptides, and other nourishing elements.
How to Use:
- Depending on the product's directions, apply the serum to the lash line either once or twice daily.
- Although results vary, many patients report improvements in as little as six to eight weeks.
3. Eyelash Transplants
An eyelash transplant can be a possibility for people who have significant lash loss or thinning. Hair follicles from the scalp are surgically transferred to the lash line in this operation.
What to Expect:
- The transplanted lashes will grow like natural hair after a brief surgical procedure.
- Although the results are permanent, issues can be avoided with a skillful surgeon.
