“Containing a blend of the OLAPLEX Peptide Complex Technology, OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology, hyaluronic acid, and biotin, this helps to strengthen and support the lashes,” Dr. Garshick explains. “It is best used twice daily to provide support to the lashes, leading to denser and thicker lashes.” Dr. Lal also recommends this formula, noting the inclusion of peptides, hyaluronic acid, and biotin. What we think: I’ve been using this eyelash serum for just over three weeks and have been super impressed with the results I’ve seen in such a short period. I apply this serum twice daily to my eyelashes and eyebrows, and I’ve noticed a bit more density in my eyelashes, and a stubborn patch in my eyebrows is already starting to fill in. This serum from Vegamour is an excellent option for those looking for a plant-based formula. It’s formulated to help achieve thicker and fuller eyelashes and eyebrows, containing “phytoactives” like mung bean, red clover, zinc, and biotin. It is “designed to help support the hair follicle through antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and hair-boosting properties,” Dr. Garshick says. It’s also 100% vegan and cruelty-free. What reviewers think: “I love, love, love this eyelash serum. It absolutely worked for my lashes. It doesn’t irritate my eyes. I was able to tell the difference in a couple of months of use. I just bought another one,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. Dr. Lal says this pick from The Ordinary is his “favorite” and “go-to” product because it uses peptides in place of prostaglandin analogs. The peptide-rich formula is “going to help protect your eyelashes, hydrate your eyelashes, and nourish your eyelashes for better growth,” he says. Dr. Garshick also recommends this formula for its inclusion of various peptides and natural extracts, noting that it can be used on the lashes and brows “to help improve the overall density and appearance” of the hair. What we think: I started using this serum well over a year ago after an incident with an eyelash curler that left me without a chunk of lashes on one eye. I was so upset and willing to do anything to get them to grow back as quickly as possible. In addition to ditching mascara (and eyelash curlers!) for a few months, I applied this serum twice daily during my skincare routine and noticed such a quick rebound of my lashes. Within about three months, my eyelashes were nearly back to normal, and I truly credit that to this serum. Latisse is the only FDA-approved eyelash growth serum clinically proven to help eyelashes grow longer, thicker, and darker. It contains bimatoprost, a prescription-only prostaglandin analog, which is thought to prolong the growth phase of lashes, Dr. Garshick says. However, Dr. Lal and Dr. Garshick warn of side effects associated with serums containing prostaglandin analogs, including skin irritation, discoloration of the skin and iris, and fat loss around the eyes. If you are interested in Latisse (or a similar product), be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor. What we think: “I am too cheap to pay for Latisse, so my doctor prescribed me the generic version, bimatoprost. It comes in an eye dropper bottle, and you put it on the tiny brushes yourself (they are included). It is a fraction of the price, and I find that a 3ml bottle lasts at least two or three months, especially now that I no longer need to use it every day. I have tried several of the over-the-counter ones, and they were not only pricey, but they irritated my eyelids. Highly recommend,” says Prevention Executive Editor, Stephanie Dolgoff. “This contains a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to help promote fuller, healthier-looking lashes as early as six to eight weeks. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which works to condition, hydrate, and protect the lashes and brows,” explains Dr. Garshick. The formula also contains a prostaglandin analog (Isopropyl cloprostenate) to boost results; just be aware of potential side effects. What reviewers think: “I’ve been using this stuff for three months and have stopped wearing eye makeup (aside from special occasions). My lashes are longer, but most importantly, they’re denser. They don’t come out as easily (it seriously feels like they never fall out), and today someone asked me what eyeliner I was wearing (I wasn’t wearing any). This stuff is a miracle and I will use it forever,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “This formulation incorporates biopeptin complex, which includes peptides, lipids, biotin, as well as green tea extract and panthenol to help strengthen and condition the lashes,” explains Dr. Garshick. “In addition, it contains calendula, which serves as a humectant to draw moisture in. Once daily use is recommended and results can be seen as early as eight weeks.” What reviewers think: “I have tried numerous products for my eyelashes to get thicker and longer. Revitalash really works. Must be consistent. Use it every night, and within two months you won’t believe your lashes. I continue to use it almost every night after three months. My lashes are blacker, thicker, and longer. I am 75 and can’t get over the difference. Tip: leave it next to your toothbrush so you don’t forget to use it,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. Dr. Garhsick recommends this serum for those looking to improve both eyelashes and eyebrows. It contains arginine, an amino acid, “to help strengthen and boost the brows,” with a dough-foot applicator that is easy to use on the brows, lash line, and between the lashes. What reviewers think: “My eyebrows were getting sparse due to age, but I found this product when I was buying skin care. I use it every night, and my eyebrows are so nice and full! My eyelashes look fuller as well, which is really nice. I don’t think this will make your eyelashes grow long, but it does help them grow in and it conditions and nourishes the hairs, which is important,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “Working as an eyelash serum, conditioner, and mascara, this combines botanical extracts with peptides, panthenol, and jojoba to strengthen and condition the lashes, supporting healthy growth,” Dr. Garshick says of this multitasking formula. “It provides an immediate lift and enhances the appearance of length and volume.” Dr. Lal also recommends the “mascara-serum,” noting that the peptide-rich formula helps to “improve the appearance of your eyelashes, make them look visibly thick.” What reviewers think: “As a mascara, it’s among the best mascaras for long, full, separated lashes. This tubing formula doesn’t end up under your eyes as there’s no fallout or flaking. The wand’s full, long bristles coat and separate each lash, and moving it slowly from lash line to end gives the best results in length and separation. I like the convenience of a one-step growth serum and mascara application. It is pricey, but considering it’s a one-and-done product, it seems reasonable,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “UPDATE: I’ve used this for a few weeks, and my lashes have improved; it seems to work just as well as Latisse!” ✔️ Think about your goals. If you have very sparse or short eyelashes that you’re looking to address with a clinically-proven ingredient targeted for growth, consider a formula like Latisse or another with prostaglandin analogs. “Prostaglandin analogs, such as bimatoprost, found in Latisse, are considered effective at increasing eyelash growth,” Dr. Garshick explains. “Other prostaglandin analogs, such as latanoprost and travoprost, while not as extensively studied, have also been shown to be effective, though they are not considered FDA approved.” However, as we know, prostaglandin analogs are not without side effects, so be sure to discuss those along with your desired outcome with your doctor before filling your prescription. ✔️ Consider other strengthening and conditioning formulas. “For those trying to avoid prostaglandin analogs, it is best to look for ingredients like peptides, biotin, or panthenol for lash strengthening,” Dr. Garshick says. ✔️ Avoid irritants. If you’re prone to sensitivity, Dr. Garhsick recommends choosing a formula labeled hypoallergenic or ophthalmologist-tested. Dr. Lal adds that avoiding fragrance in eyelash serums is also important, and to watch out for any ingredients your skin is known to be reactive to. ✔️ Perform a patch test. Before applying your serum to your lashline, Dr. Lal urges doing a patch test first. “The eyelid skin is so thin, and even one application can lead to a case of dermatitis that can last for weeks,” he explains. Apply the serum to a less conspicuous area, like your arm, and wait a few hours to make sure you don’t experience an adverse reaction. “Yes, many eyelash growth serums work by prolonging the growth phase of the lash cycle. Lash growth serums typically work through a combination of ingredients designed to stimulate lash follicles, promote cell proliferation, strengthen lashes, and retain moisture,” Dr. Garshick explains. But they don’t work overnight, may be irritating to some, and results may vary. “One common ingredient found in these serums is prostaglandin analogs like bimatoprost, found in the prescription Latisse, which is thought to prolong the growth phase of lashes,” Dr. Garshick adds. However, some prefer to avoid formulas with prostaglandin analogs due to the risk of known side effects, and thankfully, there are other options on the market, like strengthening and conditioning formulas containing ingredients like peptides, biotin, panthenol, and hyaluronic acid. “Most eyelash serums are safe when used as directed, but side effects can include irritation, redness, or allergic reactions,” Dr. Garhsick explains. Eyelash serums containing peptides, antioxidants, amino acids, and hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid or glycerin have very little risk of side effects, Dr. Lal says, noting that there is always the possibility of allergic reactions or sensitivity to certain ingredients. In terms of side effects, the most serious come from eyelash serums containing prostaglandin analogs. According to Dr. Lal and Dr. Garshick, the risks associated with these products include: We consulted Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ; and Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York for their recommendations. Prevention editors also tested a number of products themselves and sifted through countless product reviews to select the best eyelash growth serums available. For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions. Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor’s degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.