What Promotes Eyelash Growth?

Long, lush lashes are a symbol of beauty and femininity. Throughout history, people have used various methods to enhance the look of their eyelashes. However, only recently has science found a way to change the actual growth pattern of eyelashes. If your lashes are less than lush, do not worry. There are things that you can do to maximize their potential, even going beyond what was once possible.

History

Ancient Middle Easterners enhanced their eyelashes with ground up minerals blended with oil. In early Egypt, the cosmetic of choice was kohl. Even "The Karma Sutra" contains a recipe for eyelash enhancement. By the 1920s, the use of modern mascara was in full swing. False eyelashes were commonly found on 1930s screen sirens, then later, on 1960s housewives. In 2008, for the first time, people had access to a medicinal ointment that could stimulate eyelash growth.

Genes

Like the color of your eyes or the shape of your nose, your genes primarily determine the look of your eyelashes. If you have always had skimpy lashes, chances are your genes are to blame. However, you can still take steps to optimize the growth of your lashes.

Nutrition

Adequate nutrition is essential for healthy hair growth and eyelashes are no exception. If your diet is less than ideal, consider making some changes. Consuming enough protein, healthy fruits and vegetables is the first step in ensuring that your lashes are getting everything they need to thrive. Think about adding a daily multivitamin for additional nutritional insurance.

Prescription Product

Doctors use topical bimatoprost to treat skimpy lashes. The prescription medication can increase the number, length, thickness and pigment of eyelashes. You apply the solution daily at bedtime, along the top lash line. Benefits are apparent after four or more weeks. It takes up to four months of continued use to see the full effects of the medication. If you discontinue the use of topical bimatoprost, your lashes will return to their original condition. According to Mayo Clinic dermatologist Dr. Lawrence E. Gibson, one small study concluded that topical bimatoprost is not effective in patients with complete eyelash loss from alopecia areata.

Considerations

Topical bimatoprost may cause side effects such as itchy, red, dry or irritated eyes. Notify your doctor if these symptoms are severe or ongoing, or if you experience changes in vision. Topical bimatoprost can sometimes cause lashes to grow unevenly and point in different directions. These problems usually disappear once you stop using the medication. Other possible side effects include a temporary increase in eyelid pigmentation and, more rarely, a permanent increase of brown pigmentation in the iris.