How to Grow Longer Eyelashes Naturally
Long, full, and healthy eyelashes are something everyone desires. Eyelashes are the frame and the protectors for the eyes. Although eyelash length and volume is largely determined through genetics, often everyday life, diet, make-up, and allergies can cause eyelashes to fall out prematurely or not grow to their full potential.
Dozens of prescription eyelash growth serums have been developed in response to the widespread desire for longer eyelashes. Semi-permanent eyelash extensions are also a popular remedy to increase eyelash length and volume. Unfortunately, both options are extremely expensive.
Luckily, there are many ways to grow longer and fuller lashes naturally. By following a few simple and inexpensive techniques, you can see a dramatic increase in the health, length, and volume of your lashes.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is vital to eyelash health. What you eat affects your body’s health on the outside as well as the inside. Your eyelashes need the proper nutrients in order to grow to their full potential. The best nutrients for hair are protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, a few vitamins may contribute more to eyelash growth than others.
Vitamin H
Vitamin H, more commonly known as biotin, is an important nutrient for healthy eyelashes. It strengthens hair that is brittle and weak.
Although biotin is produced by bacteria in the intestines, including more in the diet can positively impact eyelashes. The recommended dosage for biotin is 30 micrograms/day, but there are no side effects associated with higher doses you may see in supplements. Foods containing biotin are brewer’s yeast, cooked egg yolk, sardines, nuts, nut butters, legumes, whole grains, cauliflower, bananas, and mushrooms.[1]
Vitamins E & C
Vitamins E and C are both important for normal hair growth. Both are antioxidants that protect eyelashes from free-radical damage. Vitamin C ensures healthy growth, while vitamin E keeps your lashes conditioned and soft. Fruits, vegetables, avocados, and nuts are good sources of vitamins E and C.
Eyelash Care
Another reason your eyelashes may not grow as long as you want is because of how you care for them. Mascara, allergies, and personal hygiene can cause short, thin, and sparse eyelashes.
Mascara is used to enhance natural eyelashes, but it can also cause damage. Mascara should be washed off every night and never slept in. The longer it is on eyelashes, the drier it becomes, making your lashes dry, brittle and prone to breakage. Mascara should also be replaced often.[2]
It is also important to give your eyelashes time to rest and be exposed to air. If you want your eyelashes to grow, the less you wear mascara, the better.
When washing mascara and eye makeup off, it is important to be gentle. Eyelashes can be pulled out very easily. Additionally, soaps and eye makeup removers can dry out and irritate eyelashes and eyes. Applying oil such as olive oil, linseed oil, vitamin E, or Vaseline on your eyelashes after cleaning them can keep them moisturized and soft. [3]
Conclusion
Eyelashes have a very short lifespan, about 3 months from start to finish. Naturally growing longer, fuller and healthier eyelashes can be achieved without investing in expensive growth serums and lash extensions.
Even if you have long and full lashes already, you can still negatively impact your eyelashes by not properly caring for them. By following these suggestions, you may see a marked increase in eyelash length and volume.
References
[1] “Vitamin H (biotin).” University of Maryland Medical Center. N.p., 2011. Web. 29 Nov. 2012.
[2] Miller, Becky. “What Makes Healthy Eyelashes?” LIVESTRONG.COM. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Nov. 2012.
[3] Whitman, Leigh. “Natural Ways to Make Eyelashes Grow.” LIVESTRONG.COM. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Nov. 2012.
