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Makeup
Put your falsies on notice.
By Deanna Pai and Brigitt Earley
Brigitt Earley / Gabrielle Langdon
Real talk: Swiping on layer after layer of mascara is kind of the worst. And let's not even get started on false lashes. Thankfully, the best eyelash serums can make your lashes grow so lush and full that you won't need any of it. And yes, both dermatologists and ophthalmologists alike say eyelash serums are perfectly safe.
“As we age, our lashes undergo a decrease in density and fullness,” says Melanie Palm, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in San Diego. And “mascara, eye-makeup removers, glue from eyelash extensions, and eyelash curlers can cause damage,” says Diane Hilal-Campo, MD, a board-certified ophthalmologist in Oakland, New Jersey. But besides all that, brittle lashes and hair loss is actually quite common.
Eyelash serums allow lashes to grow longer than they typically would before shedding during the natural growth cycle, says Dr. Hilal-Campo. Others work by hydrating and conditioning lashes, or fortifying their structure. Either way, derms tell us lash serums really do work to grow long lashes—as long as your consistent with application.
We put more than a dozen of the most popular formulations to the test. These are the products that truly impressed us, making our reviewers' natural lashes thicker, stronger, fuller, and even darker.
The best eyelash growth serums, at a glance:
- Best Overall Lash Serum: Latisse Lash Serum, $45
- Best Over-the-Counter Lash Serum: Vegamour Gro Lash Serum, $72
- Best Budget Lash Serum: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum, $15
- Best Drugstore Lash Serum: Lumify Eye Illuminations Lash & Brow Serum, $27
- Best Lash Serum for Sensitive Eyes: RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner, $152
- Best Lash Serum for Thinning Lashes: Grande Cosmetics GrandeLash-MD Lash Enhancing Serum, $68
A brief guide to eyelash growth serums:
- What is the most effective eyelash growth serum?
- What lash serum is proven to work?
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
1/14
Latisse Lash Serum
The big advantage for Latisse, the only FDA-approved treatment for fuller or thicker lashes, is that the results are proven. “Latisse really works,” says Ashley Brissette, MD, a board-certified ophthalmologist at Weill Cornell Medicine and founder of the eye care brandDaily Practice. “It has side effects, but if you lost lashes due to hormonal changes, chemotherapy, or want to use it temporarily, you will see a good effect.” The only drawback is that you have to see a health care provider for a prescription (which you can do virtually on a platform like Ro).
Our testers had overwhelmingly positive things to say about Latisse. “I have very light hair, and my eyelashes and eyebrows were basically nonexistent,” one tester told us. “It works pretty much immediately and only gets better with time. By six months I was constantly getting compliments on how long and lush my lashes were. I don't think I'll ever go back to the before days.”
Size: 0.16 oz. / Application frequency: Once per day
- Pros: Only FDA-approved growth serum; proven to work very well
- Cons: Expensive; may have side effects
2/14
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum
While many lash serums are an investment, this one offers a lower price tag but doesn't skimp on the efficacy. In fact, it features four types of peptide technologies to support dense, thick lashes with clinical results in as few as four weeks (with twice daily applications).
“I highly recommend this serum, because it contains peptides that nourish lashes and brows for healthier, stronger growth,” says Laura Pucker, founder of Pucker Up Beauty, who counts the product as one of her go-tos. “The lightweight formula is easy to apply nightly and it leaves my lashes and brows looking more vibrant without disrupting my makeup routine. With consistent use, I've noticed visible thickening and fullness in my lashes and brows in just a few weeks.”
Size: 0.16 oz. / Application frequency: Twice per day
- Pros: Budget-friendly; can be used as an eyebrow serum
- Cons: Requires two daily applications
Save when you shop for the best eyelash serums with these Sephora promo codes.
3/14
RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum
What sets this lash serum apart isn't just that it clocks in at a more moderate price point than some of its peers, but also that it features a six-ingredient complex to target various pain points for the lashes—polypeptides to limit breakage, panthenol to nourish, and amino acids to fortify proteins, among others. “This product is great for its price point and efficiency and is a great starter serum,” says Stevi Christine, a professional makeup artist based in Beverly Hills. It's also relatively low-maintenance: Just swipe it on once before bed.
“Honestly, I don't have the budget for the more expensive eyelash serums, so I was really excited when a friend recommended this one,” our reviewer told us. “It's about half the price of some others I considered, and it actually works. Sure, I had to wait eight weeks or so, but I definitely notice a difference with consistent use.”
Size: 0.10 oz. / Application frequency: Once per day
- Pros: Moderately priced; ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested
- Cons: May sting eyes
Save when you shop for the best eyelash serums with these Target promo codes.
4/14
Lumify Eye Illuminations Lash & Brow Serum
This serum is another moderately priced drugstore pick that doctors say is both safe and effective. “I'm extremely careful about the ingredients I use around my eyes,” says Jennifer Tsai, OD, a board-certified optometrist in New York City. “I like this product because the nutrient-rich formula is clinically proven hypoallergenic and is formulated without prostaglandins, mineral oil, or harsh irritating ingredients. This makes it a great option for the sensitive eye area. In as little as two weeks with daily use, lashes will not only look fuller, but they’ll look healthier too.” You can even use it as an eyebrow growth serum.
“I have sensitive eyes, so I like the fact that this one is made by a company that produces products specifically formulated with eye health in mind,” our reviewer told us. “I'm not gonna lie, though, I was a little skeptical it would actually work. But considering it's only about $25, I decided to try it out. I'm so glad I did. After only a month or so, I started noticing a definite difference.”
Size: 0.12 oz. / Application frequency: Once per day
- Pros: Optometrist-recommended; can be used on brows
- Cons: Formula isn't totally clear.
Save when you shop for the best eyelash serums with these Target promo codes.
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5/14
Olaplex Lashbond Building Serum
Original photo by Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley
Olapex has been a go-to for long silky hair for years, so it's no surprise its newish lash serum is a hit. The high-quality serum works on a unique patented peptide blend to thicken lashes. But that's not all—its ingredient list also features nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep those delicate hairs moisturized and healthy.
“With Olapex Lashbond, I definitely noticed less eyelash fallout when removing my makeup and felt like my bottom lashes had gained some length,” says Lian Brooks, Glamour UK audience growth manager. “While I was hoping to see more dramatic length on my upper lashes, when curled, I did notice a subtle difference and felt like my lashes had a lot more fullness on the whole.”
Size: 0.15 oz. / Application frequency: Twice per day
- Pros: Vegan and cruelty-freel; formulated by one of the biggest names in hair care
- Cons: Didn't lend as much length as some other formulas
6/14
RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
Formulated to accommodate sensitive eyes, this product was actually developed by a physician for his wife when she was undergoing cancer treatment. It has a peptide complex to strengthen and soften the lashes, and is the only formula on the shelf to also give lashes a built-in curl—allowing you to lay off the curler and keep lashes that much healthier. The product also happens to be the one that Meghan Markle “swears” by.
Testers say they understand why. “My eyelashes were never what you’d call stubby, but I decided to try Revitalash on a whim for a little extra oomph and was very pleasantly surprised,” says Glamour contributor Anna Vognsen. “After about a month my eyelashes are much longer, seem to fall out less frequently, and have an impact even when I’m not wearing any makeup. When I do choose to put on mascara, I can go easy on the application and look polished with just a few swipes.”
Size: 0.11 oz. / Application frequency: Once per day
- Pros: Developed by a doctor; curls lashes
- Cons: Expensive
Save when you shop for the best eyelash serums with these Nordstrom promo codes.
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7/14
Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum
Powered by a combination of vitamins, peptides, and amino acids, this ophthalmologist-tested formula delivers softer, fuller lashes and minimizes breakage within six weeks. “I started using GrandeLash during COVID, since I could no longer get lash extensions, and couldn’t believe how well it worked,” says Limor Weinberg, a board-certified nurse practitioner with a master’s in aesthetics. “I've been getting lash extensions on and off for eight years, so my lashes weren’t in the best shape. After 30 days of regularly using GrandeLash, my lashes were noticeably longer; after 90 days they were touching my eyebrows.” The precise applicator makes it easy to swipe onto the upper lash line, and it's safe to use with contact lenses as well.
“I love this product, because it actually works,” beauty and lifestyle blogger Ilona Shabovta told Glamour. “It took a few weeks, but it definitely made my lashes longer and thicker.”
Size: 0.07 oz. / Application frequency: Once per day
- Pros: Safe for use with contacts; works in less time
- Cons: Some say it stings the eyes.
Save when you shop for the best eyelash serums with these Ulta promo codes.
8/14
Vegamour Gro Lash Serum
Both Dr. Brissette and Dr. Hilal-Campo point to this formula as a strong over-the-counter contender. “The primary ingredient in this formula is CBD, or cannabidiol, which is believed to work similarly to ricinoleic acid as it pertains to lash health,” says Dr. Hilal-Campo. “It also contains peptides and mung bean extract—mung bean extract is naturally rich in selenium, a mineral believed to play an important role in healthy hair growth.”
Christal Alert, a cosmetic scientist and founder of Tonal Cosmetics, says she uses this product every night: “I have naturally long lashes and didn't see much difference in length, but I did notice a difference in hair retention. As the hairs were nourished, fewer fell out. Over time the lash line was noticeably thicker, and any gaps I had before were filling in.”
Size: 0.10 oz. / Application frequency: Once or twice daily
- Pros: Dermatologist-recommended; vegan formula
- Cons: May require two daily applications for best results
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9/14
R + F Lash Boost
This product has been one of the top-selling lash serums for years. Why? The once daily product (apply it before you go to bed at night) contains isopropyl cloprostenate, a synthetic prostaglandin analog, which is basically a different version of that superstar ingredient that makes Latisse work so well. It targets length, volume, and definition, and can even be used for the same concerns on your brows.
Users say it's one of the more gentle lash serums they've tried too. “This product irritated my lashes the least, but made them the longest,” our reviewer told us. “It probably took about six weeks to notice a difference and then two to three months to reach peak length. I mainly noticed lengthening, but there was some improvement in volume too. Definitely more than the other two products I tried!”
Size: 0.17 oz. / Application frequency: Once per day
- Pros: Adds both length and volume; can be used on brows
- Cons: Expensive
10/14
Babe Original Essential Lash Serum
Another once-per-day option at a budget-friendly price, Babe Lash is a serum that works to enhance the appearance of lashes. It's biotin-based formula encourages keratin production and growth fortifies the lash line, while panthenol nourishes the lash line and amino acids help soothe skin.
Our reviewers tell us it works very quickly as well. “I probably started noticing a difference within two or three weeks,” says Kristjana Hillberg, media relations manager for Media Muze. “My lashes grew so long that I started getting comments from everyone. They were so beautiful. The only downside is that I did notice some discoloration on my upper eyelid…kind of like a light purple discoloration. It didn't really bother me, though, because it almost looked like a little eye shadow and my lashes were so long and beautiful.”
Size: 0.10 oz. / Application frequency: Once per day
- Pros: Budget-friendly; oil-free; can be used on brows
- Cons: May cause some discoloration on eyelids
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11/14
Dr. Lara Devgan Scientific Beauty Platinum Long Lash Serum
Clean and dermatologist-formulated, this lash serum has garnered tons of praise for being one of the most effective formulas out there. “I like this formula, because it's gentle on sensitive eyes, but definitely works,” says one Glamour reviewer. Here's how: It harnesses the power of vitamin B5 for rapid hair growth; phyto peptides; and clover flower extract for follicle health. The lightweight liquid is gentle enough for sensitive eyes too.
Don't worry if it takes some time to see results—your patience will be rewarded, one reviewer says. “It takes like a full month, but I never had any irritation. You do definitely have to keep using it to maintain results though.”
Size: 0.17 oz. / Application frequency: Once or twice per day
- Pros: Lightweight; formulated with clean ingredients by a dermatologist
- Cons: Expensive
12/14
Borboleta Lash Serum
Original photo by Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley
Cruelty-free, ophthalmologist-tested, clinically tested, and likened to Latisse by users? Sign us up. This impressive lash serum is formulated with that isopropyl cloprostenate to mimic what's in prescription formulas, plus peptides, keratin, biotin, and plant-based stem cells to deliver longer, thicker lashes. It's even safe to use with lash extensions.
“The thin applicator makes it easy to apply the serum directly to the lash line,” says Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley. “I love that it dries quickly (in a matter of seconds!) and is totally invisible.” Some users report dark circles with usage, but our reviewer didn't experience any side effects—just longer lashes.
Size: 0.10 oz. / Application frequency: Once per day
- Pros: Fragrance-free; cruelty-free; ophthalmologist-tested; great for length
- Cons: Some users experience dark circles as a side effect.
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Deanna is a freelance writer, editor, and copywriter who's been writing about beauty,health, and wellness for more than a decade,as well as a longtime contributor to Glamour. Prior to freelancing, she was the senior associate beauty editor at Cosmopolitan. When she's not experimenting with skincare products, you can find her... Read more
Brigitt Earley, a graduate of Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism, has been testing consumer products and writing commerce content for 15 years and counting. She began her career in media as an editorial assistant at Real Simple, eventually rising to deputy editor of the publication's website before departing to pursue... Read more
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