Thick Eyelashes: 5 Home Care Tips and What Really Works

Thick eyelashes are something many people want, because they frame the eyes and give eye makeup an instant lift. But not everyone has thick, long lashes.

Lashes can thin with age, medicines, rubbing, harsh makeup removal, eyelash extensions or medical conditions such as thyroid disease or eyelid inflammation. If your lashes are suddenly falling out, see a doctor to check for a cause.

Voluminous, long eyelashes are popular, and gentle care can help you keep the lashes you have. Be realistic, though: no oil or home product has been proven to make lashes grow thicker or longer.

Home Remedies For Thick eyelashes

Do you want thick eyelashes? Many people try home remedies before mascara or eyelash extensions. Here is what you should know about the most popular ones.

Whatever you try, keep products out of your eyes, use clean hands or a clean brush, and stop if your eyes or eyelids become red, itchy or swollen.

1- Coconut Oil

home remedies of thick eyelashes

Coconut oil is a traditional hair oil, and some people dab a small amount on their lashes to condition them. It may help lashes feel softer and break less.

There is no good evidence that it grows thicker or longer lashes, in a month or any other time frame. Don't add vitamin E or other capsules near the eyes, since they can irritate.

2- Vaseline

Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is an inexpensive moisturizer. A tiny amount on the lashes at bedtime may keep them from drying out and becoming brittle.

It does not stimulate hair follicles or make lashes grow in a week. Use only a thin layer on the outer lashes, and keep it out of your eyes, because it can blur vision and may irritate the eyelids.

3- Castor Oil

Castor oil comes from the castor bean and is a popular home remedy for lash growth. It is thick, so people often mix it with a lighter oil.

Despite its reputation, there is no solid research showing that castor oil makes lashes grow. Some people get eye irritation or allergic reactions from it, so test it on your skin first.

4- Olive Oil

Olive oil is a common carrier oil that contains oleic acid and vitamin E. It can moisturize lashes in the same way as other oils.

There is no evidence that it makes lashes grow or regrow. Handle it carefully so it doesn't get into your eyes.

5- Brushing Eyelashes

Gently brushing your lashes with a clean spoolie can separate them and help oils spread evenly. Be gentle, though: rubbing or tugging at lashes can make them fall out.

Other tips help more than any oil. Remove eye makeup gently every night, replace mascara every few months, avoid eyelash curlers that pull, and give your lashes breaks from extensions and glue.

A Proven Option: Prescription Bimatoprost

The only well-studied way to grow lashes is a prescription medicine. Bimatoprost, first used as a glaucoma eye drop, can make eyelashes grow longer, thicker and darker, and a version is approved for thin eyelashes.

It can also darken the skin around the eye and may turn light-colored eyes brown permanently. Use it only with a doctor's prescription and guidance.

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