Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.
Longing for long lashes? a One way to make your eyes look bigger, brighter, and full of energy is to take one of our top lash growth serums for a spin. Eyelash serums are a popular alternative to eyelash extensions, promising to grow lashes with hyaluronic acid, peptides, panthenol, biotin, or castor oil. (Coincidentally, these are also ingredients you’ll find in the best night creams and best long-lasting lipsticks, among other commonly used cosmetics.) By applying a targeted conditioner along your lashes consistently, you might be able to achieve flawless, healthy, full lashes in just a few weeks.
What to look for in lash growth serums
- Efficacy: Look at reviews that list both short- and long-term results
- Ingredients list: If you’re looking for hydration, avoid any known allergens that might affect you.
- Application and ease of use: If you’re the type of person who requires an applicator, note how the product is packaged. Many include a wand like a mascara, but some are plain oils or pump systems.
- Price point and product size: Pay attention, as these vary greatly!
- Personal goals: Some eyelash serums are better for lengthening while others focus on volume or regrowth
What else you should know about lash growth serums
Eyelash serums are not for everyone, especially those with sensitive eyes or a history of eye health issues. Over-the-counter eyelash serums are considered cosmetics rather than medications, so they may contain ingredients not approved by the FDA. Check with your eye doctor for the best information.
Our top picks for the best lash growth serums
While you might know where to go for the best eyeshadow palettes or the best eye creams, lash serums have a niche following. Some need to lengthen their lashes, some are looking for thicker lashes, and others are looking for medical or cosmetic ways to regrow eyelashes. To help you choose the best eyelash growth serum for you, we listed the top 15 serums in specific categories. Take note of the price and size of the product—packaging varies significantly by brand. The following list includes the best lash serums to help your eyelashes look stronger, longer, fuller, and more lustrous.
Best lengthening lash growth serum: RevitaLash Cosmetics Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner Growth Serum 2mL
The RevitaLash conditioner is a bit of an investment, but online reviews say it’s worth it. Reports of lashes seeming twice as long immediately are all over Sephora, Ulta, and Bloomingdale’s websites. Many said they saw results in four weeks, which is markedly quicker than others on this list. One online reviewer stated, “This really works. It's pricey but should last a good while since you only need a little bit each night. My lashes are noticeably full and LONG.”
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: BioPeptin Complex®, amino acids, and B vitamins, biotin, and panthenol
- Size: .68 ounces
- Application frequency: Once daily
- Price on publish: $83
What we like:
- The application brush is gentle on the sensitive eyelash line and absorbs quickly without running into the skin
- Safe for use with eyelash extensions
- Made in the USA
What we don’t like:
- It’s certainly more expensive than entry-level serums but not the most expensive on this list
Best lash growth serums for damaged lashes: Olaplex LashBond Building Serum
Olaplex Lashbond Building Serum .15 oz / 4.5 mL
Tried and true in the haircare space, the Olaplex brand has been popular for years. So why wouldn’t they be great at eyelashes, too? Olaplex's new eyelash serum uses bond-enhancing ingredients that help thicken and strengthen lashes. The serum vows to repair and strengthen the lash bond, reducing the risk of hair loss over time and leaving lashes thicker and softer.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Peptides and bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate for strengthening
- Size: .15 ounces
- Application frequency: Twice daily
- Price on publish: $50
What we like:
- Strengthens lashes with bond-building peptides
- Many online reviewers also stated their lashes ended up softer after months
What we don’t like:
- Must be applied twice daily for six months before seeing results
Best lash growth serum for thickening: Velour Lashes Long & Strong Lash Serum
Velour Lashes Long & Strong Lash Serum 0.14 oz, 4ml
Velour Lashes eyelash serum uses a combination of 10 amino acids to stimulate keratin production. This serum promises to keep your lashes strong and prevent breakage and hair loss along the lash line.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Sodium PCA, arginine, and alanine
- Size: .14 ounces
- Application frequency: Once nightly
- Price on publish: $21
What we like:
- Reported effects seen in just six weeks of use, with the best results in 12 weeks
- Fragrance-free
What we don’t like:
- Many reported the botanical extracts irritated sensitive eyes
Best strengthening lash growth serum: Lancôme Cils Booster Lash Revitalizing Serum
Lancôme Cils Booster Lash Revitalizing Serum at Nordstrom
This formulation is packed with six amino acids, helping your own production of collagen and elastin. The richness helps strengthen and condition lashes to help them feel longer, fuller, and softer.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Threonine, arginine and serine for strengthening
- Size: .13 ounces
- Application frequency: Twice daily
- Price on publish: $49
What we like:
- It’s packed with amino acids, which have lash-strengthening qualities
- The formulation is lightweight and non-greasy
What we don’t like:
- Many reviewers mentioned it can make lashes clumpy after use
- Lancôme isn’t available everywhere—many said they could only purchase online or in department stores
Best medicated lash growth serum: Latisse
LATISSE® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03%
Just like how even the best skincare tools can’t quite replicate the full effect of a professional procedure, a prescription treatment is a bit more effective than over the counter lash growth serums. Latisse is the only FDA-approved eyelash serum for eyelash growth as of publication. It contains a prescription-strength prostaglandin analog that supports the development of existing eyelashes and stimulates new hair growth. Because it's so powerful, be sure to talk to your doctor about possible risks such as eye irritation, eye color changes, and eyelids darkening. If you wear contact lenses, you’ll need to remove them before application (and soft lenses may absorb the product). Consider switching to eyeglasses—our list of the best places to buy glasses online is a good starting point.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Bimatoprost, only available by prescription
- Size: 10 ounces
- Application frequency: Once daily
- Price on publish: $125
What we like:
- The only serum on this list clinically proven to grow lashes
What we don’t like:
- Doctor’s visit is required
- Some reported lid irritation or iris color change
Best drugstore lash growth serum: Neutrogena Healthy Lash + Brow Enhancer Serum
Neutrogena Lash + Brow Enhancer Serum with Biotin & Peptides, 0.08 oz - 0.8 oz | CVS
Looking to try a lash serum, but don’t want to make a huge investment? This Neutrogena product is a great option, can be found at your local drugstore and is 10 times more affordable than others on this list. This hydrating serum is rich in biotin and peptides that form a nice coating to make your lashes feel softer and fuller.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Biotin and peptides
- Size: .08 ounces
- Application frequency: One to two times daily
- Price on publish: $14
What we like:
- The price and availability make us swoon
- Numerous reviewers mention loving the thick applicator brush
What we don’t like:
- Reviewers also wish they got more significant results
Best conditioning lash growth serum: Pacifica Vegan Collagen Conditioning Lash Serum & Primer
Pacifica Vegan Collagen Conditioning Lash Serum & Primer
With 4.7 stars on Ulta, this one is a fan favorite. Pacifica’s eyelash serum is vegan, cruelty-free, sustainably-packaged and can lengthen your lashes in just a few weeks. The white formula is easy to apply and contains hydrating collagen and regenerating vitamins B and E.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Vegan collagen, vitamin B, vitamin E, and plant wax
- Size: .24 ounces
- Application frequency: Once daily
- Price on publish: $14
What we like:
- Free of talc, parabens, and phthalates
- Beautiful plastic-free packaging
What we don’t like:
- Some say the plant wax made their lashes clumpy
Best lash growth serum for dry lashes: Augustinus Bader The Eyebrow & Lash Enhancing Serum
Augustinus Bader The Eyebrow & Lash Enhancing Serum 0.3 oz / 8 mL
The hyaluronic acid and aloe inside the Augustinus Bader serum help draw moisture into dry lashes. One online reviewer said, “For the first month or so, I thought this was doing nothing, but I continued to use it since it is so pricey. After about six weeks, my brows started to fill in, even in places that were bare for years. I now have full brows, and I even have to trim them which I haven't had to do since I was a teen.”
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Biotin, hyaluronic acid, aloe, and safflower extract
- Size: .3 ounces
- Application frequency: Twice daily
- Price on publish: $150
What we like:
- Online reviews say this serum really works
- The packing is beautiful
What we don’t like:
- The price point is a tough pill to swallow, but reviewers say it’s worth it
Best lash growth serum for lashes and brows: twenty/twenty Beauty Get Growing Lash and Brow Serum
twenty/twenty Get Growing Lash & Brow Serum
Made with a trio of healthy oils, this eyelash and brow growth serum promises to promote the appearance of longer, fuller lashes and brows without harmful ingredients.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Castor oil, argan oil. and coconut oil
- Size: .33 ounces
- Application frequency: One pump, nightly
- Price on publish: $53
What we like:
- Free of prostaglandin, parabens, phthalates, silicones and fragrance
- Safe for sensitive skin and eyes
- Pump application makes it less prone to contamination
What we don’t like:
- The thickness means contact lens wearers might need to take their contacts out first
Best lash growth serum for sensitive eyes: Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH MD Lash Enhancing Serum
Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH - MD Lash Enhancing Serum .067 oz / 2 mL
GrandeLASH-MD is an award-winning serum that uses a prostaglandin analog to promote the appearance of longer, thicker lashes when applied to the upper lash line.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Isopropyl cloprostenate, an over-the-counter prostaglandin analog
- Size: .67 ounces
- Application frequency: Once daily
- Price on publish: $68
What we like:
- Works the same way products like Latisse do, but without a prescription
What we don’t like:
- Recommended usage takes three months to see results
- Many say the application may be difficult
Best lash growth serum for quick results: RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum
RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum - 0.1 fl oz
The HEXATEIN® 1 Complex in this lash serum is specifically designed to condition, hydrate, and strengthen lashes to improve the overall appearance. One reviewer said, "I have been using this for a month now and have seen a tremendous amount of lash growth! I make sure to incorporate this into my a.m. and p.m. routines for best results."
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Polypeptides, biotin, panthenol, soybean oil and pumpkin seed extract
- Size: 0.1 ounces
- Application frequency: Once daily
- Price on publish: $49
What we like:
- Safe for contact lens wearers
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and not tested on animals
What we don’t like:
- Cannot be used by those with soy allergies
- Some mentioned red eyes after use
Best lash growth serum for darkening: Âme Pure Lash Boost Eyelash Growth Serum
Âme Pure Lash Boost Eyelash Growth Serum
If you have blonde or ginger eyelashes, you can darken them with this growth serum. The double-dose lash serum has eight active ingredients and is 100% cruelty-free. The combination of peptides and natural extracts helps darken and lengthen lashes and brows.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Flower extract and acetyl tetrapeptide-3
- Size: .1 ounce
- Application frequency: One to two times daily
- Price on publish: $70
What we like:
- Results can be seen in just two to four weeks
- Can also be used on eyebrows
- 100% organic preservatives
What we don’t like:
- Some reviewers say it burns their eyes upon application
Best lash growth serum for anti-aging: Vichy LiftActiv Serum 10 Eyes and Lashes
Vichy LiftActiv Eye Serum 10 for Eyes and Lashes with Hyaluronic Acid - 0.51 fl oz
This dual-action eye and lash serum has hyaluronic acid to improve the appearance of crow's feet and undereye wrinkles while thickening lashes. If you want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and firm the skin around the eyes while visibly strengthening lashes, this one's for you. For even more benefits, consider adding one of the best anti-aging eye creams to your skincare routine.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and mineral-rich Vichy volcanic water
- Size: .5 ounces
- Application frequency: Twice daily
- Price on publish: $35
What we like:
- Many reviewers over 40 commented that fine lines and wrinkles were diminished
What we don’t like:
- The pump can be challenging to master
Best natural formula lash growth serum: Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Eyelash Serum
Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Eyelash Serum for Fuller-Looking Lashes and Brows 1 fl oz
It doesn't get more natural than this. Sky Organics' eyelash growth serum has exactly one ingredient: cold-pressed castor oil. The USDA-certified, organic, vegan serum supports stronger, fuller lashes by coating them in rich, natural fatty acids.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: 100% pure, virgin castor oil
- Size: 1 ounce
- Application frequency: One to two drops nightly
- Price on publish: $10
What we like:
- Castor oil is widely used and considered a safe alternative to pharmaceuticals
- The price point can’t be beat
What we don’t like:
- Unfortunately, this can’t be used with eyelash extensions—oils will dissolve the adhesive
Best budget lash growth serum: Maybelline Boosting Eyelash Serum
Maybelline Lash Sensational Boosting Eyelash Serum
Reviewers were surprised how much this budget-friendly lash serum defined and fortified their lashes. Maybelline's formulation, with arginine and Provitamin B5, aims to condition your eyelashes, making them softer and more curlable. Apply from root to tip and along the base.
Specifications:
- Key ingredients: Arginine and provitamin B5
- Size: .18 ounces
- Application frequency: Once daily
- Price on publish: $11
What we like:
- Costs less than a lavender latte
What we don’t like:
- Results seem to be stronger for more expensive brands
How we selected the best lash growth serums
I extensively researched beauty products based on the best active ingredients, expert recommendations, and thousands of customer reviews. I focused on ease of use and application process, short-term and long-term effects, safety, popularity, availability, and price point.
How do lash growth serums work?
Eyelash growth serums aim to work with and enhance eyelashes' natural growth cycle, called the anagen phase. Most packages provide detailed instructions on how to use (and how often to use) their specific lash serum, and what results generally look like. Most often, you apply the serum to the lash line with an included applicator, similar to applying liquid eyeliner. Others are applied by pumping a dose onto your fingers and dabbing it along your lashes. They often require daily use for peptides or collagen to affect your lash line. Many reviewers say eyelashes will appear longer, stronger or fuller, with results showing up for most between 2-6 months.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Do eyelash growth serums really work?
Thousands of beauty experts and online reviewers say they do, but it does take time. Most eyelash serums take two to six months to see an effect, and consistent application is important.
Is eyelash serum safe for your eyes?
Yes. While the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve over-the-counter eyelash serums, cosmetics companies do ample testing. Each product reacts with your chemistry differently. Stop using the product immediately if you notice any signs of discoloration or irritation. Sensitive skin or eyes? Check to see if your chosen product is dermatologist- or optometrist-approved.
How do you apply eyelash serum?
Apply eyelash serums to your lashes using the included applicator, just like you would apply liquid eyeliner. Pump-style applications allow you to deposit serum onto your finger and apply manually onto your lashes.
How long will it take to see a difference in the length and volume of my eyelashes?
Efficacy depends on product and each user’s genetics and beauty regimen, but with most eyelash serums on this list, users started to see results in four to eight weeks, with the best results after six months.
Can you use lash growth serums with lash extensions?
Yes, as long as they are not oil-based. Stay away from castor oil, sunflower seed oil, and other mineral oils, as they naturally break down the adhesive in lash extensions. You can continue to use non-oil-based lash growth serums at any time.
The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.