Can You Actually Make Your Eyelashes and Eyebrows Grow Faster and Thicker?

@wolfiecindy

Thick, full brows and long, fluttery lashes—beauty goals that never go out of style. But can you speed up the growth of your eyelashes and eyebrows, or are those serums and oils just wishful thinking? Let’s dive into the science behind brow and lash growth and find out what really works.

The Growth Cycle 101

Before we get into miracle potions, it’s crucial to understand how hair (yes, your lashes and brows count) grows. Hair on your body goes through three phases:

1. Anagen (Growth phase) – This is when the magic happens. Hair follicles actively produce new hair cells.

2. Catagen (Transition phase) – The hair stops growing but doesn’t fall out just yet.

3. Telogen (Resting phase) – The hair is shed to make room for new growth.

For eyebrows, the growth phase typically lasts about four to six weeks, and for lashes, it’s even shorter—just 30 to 45 days. This means patience is key because your lashes and brows are naturally programmed to grow only so fast. But, with a little help, you can enhance the process.

Eyelash and Eyebrow Growth Serums: Miracle or Myth?

Here’s the tea: there are serums that can help boost lash and brow growth, but not all of them are created equal. One of the most popular active ingredients in these serums is bimatoprost (hello, Latisse). This FDA-approved treatment works by extending the growth phase of hair follicles, leading to longer, thicker lashes. Science-backed? You bet.

But what about over-the-counter serums? These usually contain ingredients like peptides, biotin, and panthenol, which can nourish the hair follicles and prevent breakage, making your lashes and brows look fuller. They won’t transform you overnight, but with consistent use, you might see a subtle difference.

Natural Remedies: Castor Oil, Coconut Oil, and More

Your grandma swears by castor oil, but does it actually do anything? While there’s no scientific proof that castor oil makes hair grow faster, it is rich in ricinoleic acid, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. Keeping the hair and skin around your lashes and brows hydrated can help prevent breakage and create a healthier environment for hair growth.

Similarly, coconut oil and aloe vera are often touted as miracle workers. While they’re not going to make you wake up with Cara Delevingne brows, they can condition the hair and prevent loss. And when your brows aren’t falling out as often, they look thicker.

Diet: Beauty from the Inside Out

What you eat matters—big time. If you want those brows and lashes to flourish, make sure you’re getting enough biotin, vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. These nutrients play a key role in hair growth, keeping your hair follicles healthy and happy.

Foods like nuts, seeds, eggs, and leafy greens are great for feeding your lashes and brows from the inside out. So, that kale salad? It’s doing more than just keeping your waistline in check.

Are There Quick Fixes?

While you wait for those serums and oils to work their magic, there are some quick fixes you can try. Brow gels and mascara with fibers can give the illusion of thicker hair, and tinting can help if your lashes or brows are light in color. There’s also microblading and lash extensions, though these come with their own set of risks (infection, anyone?).

The Bottom Line

Can you make your eyelashes and eyebrows grow faster and thicker? Kind of. With the right products (especially those that are science-backed), a healthy diet, and a little patience, you can encourage fuller, healthier brows and lashes. Just don’t expect overnight miracles—nature moves at its own pace, even when you’re armed with a fancy serum.

References

1. Kim, H. K., Park, S. H., & Kang, H. (2020). Effects of bimatoprost on eyelash growth: A literature review. Dermatology Reports, 12(1), 57–62.

2. Goraya, J. S., & Liu, X. (2019). Natural remedies for hair growth: Myths and facts. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 18(6), 1925-1932.

3. McMichael, A. J. (2020). Biotin and other ingredients in hair products: Science or marketing? Dermatologic Therapy, 33(3), e13745.

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