Before I started testing the best eyelash growth serums, I used to tell my friends I had “baby lashes”—eyelashes only a few millimeters long that even a lengthening mascara couldn’t help. Tired of constantly applying strip lashes every time I wore makeup or making expensive trips to a lash technician for extensions, I made it my mission to find something that would deliver lasting results for thicker, stronger, and longer eyelashes. As it turns out, I wasn’t alone in my search.
About a decade ago, Vogue’s beauty shopping writer, Conçetta Ciarlo, was diagnosed with a spot of alopecia, which led to periods of lash loss and a slower regrowth cycle. She initially tried Latisse, the only FDA-approved eyelash growth treatment, but it required a dermatologist’s prescription and caused some subtle darkening along her upper lash line—neither of which was ideal. Over time, her long lashes grew back, though they were less dense and a bit more prone to falling out. Ready for a different approach, she began experimenting with over-the-counter options, often those trending on social media, in search of something more accessible yet still effective.
Vogue’s Favorite Eyelash Growth Serums
– Best Overall: Vegamour Gro Lash Serum
– Best With PGA: Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum
– Best Pure Castor Oil: Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Eyelash Serum
“Lash growth serums work to strengthen, nourish, and condition the eyelash hairs, which can give them a thicker and healthier appearance with consistent use,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick. “By improving the health of the lash hair, it may also help make it less prone to breakage.”
While my lashes are short and curly and Ciarlo’s are long and straight, both of us have seen success with growth serums over years of testing—proof that these formulas can benefit all lash types and concerns. It really comes down to finding the right formula for your needs. “Eyelash serums work when used properly,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Purvisha Patel, founder of Visha Skincare, who recommends applying them daily and notes that “it takes at least a month to see results.”
Below, eye experts—including ophthalmologists, optometrists, and dermatologists—share everything you need to know about eyelash-enhancing serums, along with some of their favorite formulas that have also been tested by our team.
What to Look for in an Eyelash Growth Serum
Key Ingredients to Consider for Lash Growth
What are the potential side effects of prostaglandin eyelash serum?
Do lash serums work?
How do lash serums work?
Do lash serums grow back?
How long does it take for lashes to grow?
Is eyelash growth serum safe for your eyes?
More Formulas We Considered
How We Tested
Meet The Experts
Best Overall: Vegamour Gro Lash Serum
Vegamour’s lash-growing serum takes a clean beauty approach, blending naturally derived ingredients that are also ophthalmologist-approved. “Vegamour’s formula contains peptides as well as mung bean extract, which is rich in selenium,” says board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Diane Hilal-Campo. Selenium, she explains, is an “often-overlooked mineral believed to play an important role in hair growth.” Plus, the formula is prostaglandin-free, so you can apply it without worrying about hyperpigmentation.
Editor’s Note: “Vegamour’s lash serum is the one I reach for most consistently. For years, it’s been a safety net to prevent lash fallout. Other formulas I’ve tried have worked well, but they often left some darkening at my lash line—Vegamour’s option gets the job done with clean ingredients and no unsettling side effects.” —ConçettaVegamour GRO+ Advanced Lash Serum
By Conçetta Ciarlo, beauty shopping writer
Key Ingredients: Red clover, mung bean extract, peptides
PGAs: No
How to Apply: Apply to the upper and lower lash line twice daily for the first two months, then reduce to once daily.
More to Know: Vegan, cruelty-free, and free of prostaglandins, sulfates, parabens, and toxins.
Size: 3 mL
Love It:
– Vegan, cruelty-free, and plant-based formula
– PGA-free
Leave It:
– Some users report it takes longer to see results
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Best With PGA: Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum
Price: $36 at Amazon and Nordstrom
Why We Love It:
This serum has celebrity endorsements and is recommended by Dr. Garshick. It contains a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to promote fuller, healthier-looking lashes in as little as 6–8 weeks. Hyaluronic acid conditions, hydrates, and protects the lashes. The thin applicator allows for precise application along the lash line.
Editor’s Experience:
Conçetta Ciarlo, beauty shopping writer
“This was the first buzzy lash serum I tried and repurchased throughout college. It consistently helped with lash regrowth, and I’d notice new lash stubble within weeks. However, as someone prone to hyperpigmentation, I did experience some darkening at the lash line over time.”
Key Ingredients: Isopropyl cloprostenate (a prostaglandin analogue), radish root ferment, grape seed extract, amino acids, hyaluronic acid, honey, aloe vera, glycerin, panthenol
PGAs: Yes
How to Apply: Apply a thin stroke to the upper lash line once daily for three months. Repeat on the lower lash line as desired.
More to Know: Paraben-free, cruelty-free, ophthalmologist-tested, and safe for contact lens wearers and lash extensions.
Size: 2 mL
Love It:
– Users report effective growth
– Easy, precise application with a thin brush
– Some notice lash growth in the inner corner
Leave It:
– Some report slight hyperpigmentation at the lash line
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Best Conditioning: Shiseido Full Lash & Brow Serum
Price: $36 at Amazon
Why We Love It:
This gentle, thoughtfully formulated serum features arginine, an amino acid essential for keratin production, to strengthen hair. Vitamin E helps reduce oxidative stress and promote blood circulation. It’s ideal for conditioning existing hairs rather than promoting regrowth after hair loss.
Editor’s Experience:
Kiana Murden, beauty editor, shopping
“I’d recommend this serum to beginners. It’s gentle, suitable for both lashes and brows, and conditions hairs to grow without breakage. It’s a great entry point for those who don’t need more targeted care.”
Key Ingredients: Arginine, glycerin, zizyphus jujuba fruit extract
PGAs: No
How to Apply: Apply to the lash line morning and night.
More to Know: Cruelty-free, dermatologist-tested, and ophthalmologist-tested.
Size: 6 mL
Love It:
– Conditioning and nourishing formula
– Works well for both lashes and brows
Leave It:
– Not a paraben-free formula
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Best Pure Castor Oil: Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Eyelash Serum
Save to wishlistSky Organic Castor Oil Eyelash Serum
$15 | AMAZON
Why We Love It:
“Castor oil can be a great, natural way to grow your eyelashes,” says plastic surgeon Dr. Kevin Sadati. “It’s widely used and considered a safe alternative to medical actives—but as with any product, keep it out of your eyes.” He adds a pro tip: “Because it’s an oil, it’s generally not safe to use with eyelash extensions.”
Editor’s Experience:
“While expert-formulated growth serums have their merits, sometimes a botanical oil does the trick. Sky Organic’s serum is a perfect example. Best for those whose skin tolerates face and body oils well (castor oil can feel heavy), it works wonders on dry, brittle lashes prone to fallout or breakage. Plus, it comes with both a spoolie and an eyeliner-tip wand for customized application.” —Kiana Murden, Beauty Editor
Key Ingredients: 100% pure, virgin castor oil
PGAs: No
How to Apply: Apply one to two drops nightly to lashes and brows.
More to Know: Vegan, 100% organic
Size: 30 mL
Love It | Leave It
Single-ingredient, natural castor oil formula | A more natural approach requires extra patience to see results
Promotes lash and brow growth |
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Best Brush-On Formula: Typology L37 Eyebrow & Eyelash Serum With 2% Pea Peptides + Castor Oil
$41 | TYPOLOGY
Why We Love It:
French brand Typology focuses on simple, clean beauty formulas, and this lash and brow serum is no exception. The cult-favorite, 96% naturally derived formula often sells out because it’s that effective. Instead of a thin applicator tip, Typology uses a spoolie wand to brush it on like mascara. Pea peptides, castor oil, and glycerin work together to condition lashes and brows, improving density and preventing breakage.
Editor’s Note:
“My habit of wearing waterproof mascara left my lashes drier than usual. I’ve been applying this serum morning and night for over two months, and my lashes are noticeably softer and fuller—even in areas I’ve over-tweezed. Praise be.” —Conçetta Ciarlo, Beauty Shopping Writer
Key Ingredients: Castor seed oil, pea peptide, glycerin, panthenol
PGAs: No
How to Apply: Apply directly to lashes and brows; do not rinse off. Use once or twice daily, allowing time to dry before applying other products.
More to Know: 96% naturally derived, fragrance-free, vegan, hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested
Size: 0.50 fl oz
Love It | Leave It
Safe for sensitive eyes (vegan, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free) | Results are slower and more gradual
Conditions brows and lashes from root to tip with a spoolie applicator |
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Best with Keratin: Kosas GrowPotion Fluffy Brow + Lash Boosting Serum
$48 | NORDSTROM, KOSAS, REVOLVE
Why We Love It:
“Kosas uses panthenol and amino acids from wheat and soy to support healthier growth, plus biotinoyl tripeptide-1 to help prevent hair loss and stimulate new growth,” says Hilal-Campo. “It even includes clover extract, which has been shown to promote hair growth in those with alopecia. I also love the applicator—the sponge tip allows for precise application on sparse areas.” After three months of use, the brand reports that in an expert-graded study, 97% of subjects saw improved brow length and lash volume, and 90% agreed it restored the look of over-plucked brows.
Editor’s Note:
“Two and a half years after first trying Kosas GrowPotion, it’s still a staple in my routine. The sponge-tip applicator makes application seamless, and the clean serum glides on easily. I appreciate that the formula is…”The formula has a light, gel-like texture that feels almost refreshing. My lashes have never been longer, and my brows have never been denser—I certainly have Kosas to thank for that. —Kiana Murden, beauty editor, shopping
Key Ingredients: Peptides, keratin, vitamin B5, hyaluronic acid
PGAs: No
How to Apply: According to Kosas, apply one dip of serum to the lashes and brow area nightly.
More To Know: Ophthalmologist-tested, prostaglandin-free, vegan, and cruelty-free
Size: 3.5 mL
Love It
– Clean and gentle formula
– Dual-ended applicator tip
Leave It
– Doe foot applicator allows for less precise application
Best with Biotin: Augustinus Bader The Eyebrow & Lash Enhancing Serum
Save to wishlist
Augustinus Bader
The Eyebrow & Lash Enhancing Serum
$160 NORDSTROM | $160 BLUEMERCURY
Why We Love It: “This formula contains sunflower oil, biotin, panthenol, and castor oil—all ingredients that support healthy hair growth,” says Hilal-Campo of Augustinus Bader’s new lash serum, which can also be used as a brow treatment. In a 12-week clinical trial of subjects with self-perceived sensitive skin and eyes, lash length was said to increase by 34%, while lash and brow prominence increased by 130%. In addition to the brand’s signature TFC8 complex, it provides a dose of moisture. “Hyaluronic acid and aloe help draw moisture into dry lashes,” Hilal-Campo notes.
Editor’s Note: “As a big Augustinus Bader fan, I was really excited to test its lash enhancing serum, and it fortunately didn’t disappoint. My lashes drink up its amino acid- and peptide-rich composition, making them softer than ever.” —Kiana Murden, beauty editor, shopping
Key Ingredients: Roselle and safflower extract, biotin, red winter algae, hyaluronic acid
PGAs: No
How to Apply: According to Augustinus Bader, apply to brows and lashes morning and night.
More To Know: Cruelty-free, ophthalmologist-tested, paraben-free
Size: 8 mL
Love It
– Naturally-derived formula is safe for sensitive eyes
– Works well for both lashes and brows
Leave It
– One of the priciest growth serums on our list
Everything You Need to Know
What to Look for in an Eyelash Growth Serum
Before applying anything to your eyes, the pros advise proceeding with caution to ensure the formula is safe. Below, Manhattan-based optometrist Dr. Jennifer Tsai breaks down the key characteristics to look for when shopping for a new lash growth serum.
Ingredients: “Effective eyelash growth serums that are gentle and safe for use around the eyes include ingredients like peptides, which stimulate growth,” Dr. Tsai tells Vogue. For those who want a simple and clean option, a dose of straight-up castor oil can make an impact. “I’ve been using castor oil on dry eye patients for years to help soothe their painful symptoms,” says Dr. Hilal-Campo, who noticed many of her patients developed thicker, longer lashes over time from this treatment.
Application: “It’s important to avoid the water line, where your meibomian oil glands sit, which can cause irritation and dry eyes,” warns Tsai. Try to allow it to dry completely and avoid getting the serum into your eyes.
Strength: For beginners, Tsai recommends starting with a lower-strength formula and gradually increasing from there. “Allow your skin and lashes time to adjust to the product to minimize any side effects,” she advises. However, most over-the-counter eyelash serums are generally formulated at a suitable strength and do not require a prescription.
Key Ingredients to Consider For Lash Growth
To help inform your purchase, Dr. Garshick breaks down the most common ingredients in lash growth serums and how each of them works.
Castor Oil: Although more data is needed, Dr. Garshick says that “castor oil can help to moisturize and nourish the lashes, improving overall health. Castor oil may also help to promote healthier and stronger hair as it uses ricinoleic acid—a type of fatty acid—to boost circulation, which is thought to help promote growth.”Promote healthier and stronger hair.
Prostaglandins: “Prostaglandin analogs (PGAs), like the bimatoprost found in Latisse, are effective at increasing eyelash growth. Others, such as latanoprost and travoprost, have also shown effectiveness but are not FDA-approved for this use,” she explains. However, they require caution: “They are thought to work by extending the hair’s growth phase. Besides a risk of hyperpigmentation, PGAs may also be linked to prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy, which can cause fat loss around the eyes and a deepening of the upper eyelid.”
Keratin: “Keratin helps strengthen and support the hair follicle.”
Biotin: “Biotin can make lashes appear thicker and healthier. It’s believed to strengthen keratin and condition the lashes.”
Hyaluronic Acid: A skincare favorite, “hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant to boost moisture and nourish lashes. By retaining moisture, it helps lashes look healthier.”
Peptides: “Peptides work to strengthen and support the hair follicle, making lashes appear fuller and stronger.”
Botanical Extracts: “Some botanical extracts may protect lashes from oxidative stress with antioxidants and contain minerals that nourish and support lashes.”
What are the potential side effects of prostaglandin eyelash serum?
According to board-certified dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose, prostaglandins (PGAs) in some lash serums remain somewhat mysterious. “Latisse contains prescription-strength bimatoprost, which stimulates growth, though the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “Over-the-counter prostaglandin-based serums contain a weaker prostaglandin, which lowers the risk of side effects.”
Dr. Hilal-Campo recommends avoiding PGAs entirely due to their side effects, which have been widely discussed. She notes a 20% chance of side effects with PGA-based serums. “It’s easy to spot PGAs in an ingredient list—look for ingredients with ‘prost’ in them, like isopropyl cloprostenate,” she explains. “Keep in mind that because these ingredients aren’t FDA-regulated like prescription bimatoprost, they may be stronger, and the risks could be greater,” says Dr. Hilal-Campo.
How do lash serums work?
According to Dr. Garshick, lash serums combine ingredients to strengthen and support lash health. For example, peptides or biotin can thicken hairs, while antioxidants or hydrating ingredients like panthenol nourish and condition each hair. Latisse, on the other hand, works via a prostaglandin analog which “may help increase the number of active follicles and extend the hair growth phase”—essentially stimulating the follicle to promote growth, Dr. Garshick explains. Regardless of the type, consistency in application is key for the best results.
Do lashes grow back?
Eyelashes can grow back, though growth serums are mainly formulated to improve existing “lash thickness, volume, and length,” Dr. Garshick says. Dr. Hilal-Campo agrees, reminding us that…It’s important to first protect your lash foundation. “If the root of your lashes or brows is dead, there is no product that can bring them back,” she warns. “Certain beauty practices can kill them, so for healthier hair, I recommend avoiding treatments like lash lifts and extensions.”
For an added boost, she suggests fortifying the building blocks of your natural lashes and hair with supplements that fill in any nutritional gaps you may be missing. “Nutrafol is a supplement taken to grow scalp hair, and can help with lash growth as well,” says Dr. Patel. Part of the reason serums can be helpful, though, will sound familiar: hydration. “If you’re prone to dry, brittle lashes, that hydration can help stave off breakage for healthier, fuller lashes,” says Dr. Hilal-Campo.
How long does it take for lashes to grow?
Growing longer, stronger lashes requires patience, and even with consistency, results may vary. Dr. Garshick explains that sometimes results can be seen as early as two to four weeks, though it will generally take several months for the full effect. She continues that “the results are maintained with continued use of the serum or product, though in many cases, once desired results are achieved, the number of applications per week may be reduced.”
Are eyelash growth serums safe for your eyes?
According to Dr. Tsai, most eyelash growth serums are safe to use; however, it depends on the ingredients. “If the serum contains prostaglandin analogs, which stimulate lash growth, it may also have side effects such as eye irritation, skin darkening, iris color change, and possible orbital fat loss.” When in doubt, perform a patch test on your hand before applying it to your eye area—this helps to identify whether any ingredients may irritate you.
How We Tested
When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue’s vast network of experts—from board-certified dermatologists to ophthalmologists and optometrists—to gain professional insight on the industry’s standout products, ones these specialists would actually use on their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful selections you read on our site.
As it relates to eyelash growth serums, we selected the best based on the following characteristics: ingredients, applicator, ease of application, potential irritants, and the hair growth concerns they address. To do this, we paired our own personal tests of each formula with expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.
More Formulas We Considered
With a plethora of popular eyelash serums on the market, it’s trickier than you may think to narrow things down to a tight, digestible list. After long, thoughtful deliberation, we were able to choose the top seven detailed above. However, for further context, here is an honorable mention of other formulas we tested that also yield consistent results.
Dr. Lara Devgan Platinum Long Lash Serum – $150 at Violet Grey, $150 at Moda Operandi
Essential Lash Serum – $49 at Amazon, $29 at Revolve
Revitalash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner – $100 at Amazon, $100 at Nordstrom
Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum – $15 at Amazon, $15 at Nordstrom
Meet The Experts
Marisa Garshick, MD is a New York City–based and board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Cornell University.
Diane Hilal-Campo, MD is a board-certified ophthalmologist and founder of Twenty/Twenty Beauty.
Blair Murphy-Rose, MD is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in facial rejuvenation techniques, advanced laser procedures, and PRP skin and hair rejuvenation.
Purvisha Patel, MD is a board-certified dermatologist.Dr. Kevin Sadati is a facial plastic surgeon in Newport Beach and the founder of Visha Skincare. Dr. Dara Spearman is a board-certified dermatologist in Fort Wayne, Indiana, who specializes in melanoma and skin cancer care. Dr. Jennifer Tsai is an optometrist in Manhattan and the founder of Line of Sight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about eyelash growth serums written in a natural conversational tone
Beginner General Questions
Q What exactly is an eyelash growth serum
A Its a liquid treatment usually applied with a tiny brush along your lash line that nourishes the hair follicles The goal is to promote longer thicker and darker lashes over time
Q Do these serums actually work
A Yes many clinically tested serums with proven active ingredients can significantly improve lash length thickness and darkness Results vary by person and product
Q How long does it take to see results
A Most people start to notice a difference in 46 weeks but full results typically take about 3 months of consistent daily use Patience is key
Q Is it safe to use
A Generally yes when used as directed However some prescriptionstrength ingredients can have side effects like eye irritation or darkening of the eyelid skin Always patch test and follow the instructions carefully
Q Can I use it if I have sensitive eyes or wear contacts
A It depends on the formula Look for serums labeled ophthalmologisttested or safe for contact lens wearers Apply the serum at night after removing contacts and let it dry fully
Usage Application
Q How do I apply it correctly
A After cleansing apply a thin line of serum along the skin of your upper lash line starting from the inner corner Avoid getting it directly in your eye Most people apply once daily usually at night
Q Do I apply it to my lower lashes too
A Most serums are designed for the upper lash line only The product will transfer to the lower lashes naturally when you blink Applying it directly to the lower lash line increases the chance of irritation
Q Can I still wear mascara and eyeliner
A Yes Just apply the serum first let it dry completely and then proceed with your makeup as normal
Q What happens if I stop using it
A Your lashes will gradually return to their natural growth cycle and revert