The Science Behind Lash and Brow Serums: How Do They Work?
It almost seems too good to be true that there’s a special serum that can make eyelashes and eyebrows grow longer, thicker, and darker in a matter of weeks. This isn’t a fantasy; it’s a reality!
Lash and brow serums have become a popular beauty trend, promising to give people full, fluttery lashes and bold brows. But how exactly do these serums work? It’s not through magic, but rather through science and a combination of carefully chosen ingredients. Here’s how these serums can make lashes and brows grow, and what you need to know before recommending them to your clients.
Understand Hair Growth
Hair grows in three stages: the anagen phase (growth phase), the catagen phase (transition phase), and the telogen phase (resting phase). Every hair strand experiences these phases at different times; that’s why we don’t lose all our hair at once.
In the anagen phase, the hair follicle actively grows and produces new cells. This can last anywhere from two to seven years for scalp hair, but only a few weeks for eyelashes or eyebrows.
The catagen phase is two to three weeks long. The follicle stops growing and transitions into the telogen phase.
In the telogen phase, the follicle rests and eventually sheds. This makes room for new hairs to grow.
How Do Lash and Brow Serums Work?
The reason why lash and brow serums work is because they prolong the anagen phase, giving hair more time to grow and become longer. Hair follicles can become damaged or weakened due to age, genetics, or other factors, but serums nourish and strengthen them. By providing essential vitamins and nutrients to these follicles, lash and brow serums can stimulate growth and prevent premature shedding.
In addition, lash and brow serums can also help improve the overall health of the lashes and brows. As with any other part of the body, healthy hair starts from within. Serums can provide hydration and nourishment to the hair follicles, which can lead to stronger, thicker, and more resilient hair. The more resilient the hair is, the less likely it is to break or fall out. Therefore, clients can enjoy long, full lashes and brows without worrying about them falling out prematurely.
Key Ingredients in Lash and Brow Serums
What are the key ingredients in lash and brow serums that help promote hair growth? While each serum may have its own unique blend of ingredients, there are a few common ones to look for:
- Peptides: These short chains of amino acids stimulate keratin production, promoting longer and thicker hairs.
- Biotin: Also known as vitamin B7, biotin helps strengthen hair follicles for healthier growth.
- Castor oil: This natural oil contains essential fatty acids that nourish hair follicles and promote growth.
- Prostaglandin analogs: These synthetic compounds mimic the effects of natural prostaglandins to regulate hair growth.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients such as vitamin E and green tea extract protect hair follicles from damage and promote stronger, healthier hairs.
- Hyaluronic acid: This hydrating ingredient helps improve the overall health of hair follicles.
All these ingredients work together to nourish and strengthen hair follicles, giving them the extra boost they need to produce longer and fuller lashes and brows.
Application and Results
Lash and brow serums are typically applied once a day, either in the morning or at night after removing makeup. Apply the serum with a small brush or wand to the base of clean lashes and brows. The process resembles how one would apply liquid eyeliner.
Results can vary from person to person, but most users see noticeable improvements in about four to eight weeks. Some may experience longer and thicker hairs, while others may also see darker pigmentation. It’s important to note that results may not be permanent and regular use of the serum is necessary for maintenance.
Do Lash and Brow Serums Work for Everyone?
While lash and brow serums have shown promising results for many people, they may not work for everyone. Factors that can affect their efficacy include:
Genetics
Some people may naturally have short or thin lashes and brows due to genetics. This can make it more difficult for serums to produce noticeable results.
Age
As people age, their hair follicles become weak and less active, making it difficult for lash and brow serums to promote growth.
Hormones
Changes in hormone levels can affect hair growth. Individuals who are pregnant, going through menopause, or taking certain medications may not see the same results from serums as other individuals.
Diet and Lifestyle
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep habits can contribute to healthy hair growth. Clients who don’t follow these habits may not see optimal results from lash and brow serums.
Application Techniques
If clients aren’t applying the serum correctly or consistently, they may not see the desired effects.
Underlying Health Conditions
Certain health conditions, such as anemia and thyroid disorders, can affect hair growth. They may impact the effectiveness of lash and brow serums.
Quality and Ingredients of the Serum
Not all lash and brow serums are the same. Some formulas may contain low-quality ingredients or not enough of the key ingredients to make a difference.
Considerations Before Recommending Lash and Brow Serums
With all these factors in mind, it’s important to manage client expectations when recommending lash and brow serums. Although many people see fast results, others may take longer or not notice any changes. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind before recommending serums to clients:
- Allergies: Some individuals may have allergies or be sensitive to certain ingredients in lash and brow serums. Perform a patch test to check for allergies before you recommend a serum.
- Cost: Lash and brow serums can range from affordable drugstore options to more expensive, high-end products. Make sure your client is aware of the cost.
- Side effects: Like with any beauty product, there’s a small risk of side effects like irritation or redness. Inform clients of these potential risks. Advise them to discontinue use if they experience any discomfort.
- Consistency: Lash and brow serums require consistent use for best results. If a client isn’t willing to commit to daily application, the serum may not be effective.
- Other treatments: Lash and brow serums may not have the desired effects if a client is also receiving other beauty treatments, like lash extensions or microblading. Discuss this with your client before recommending a serum.
Lash and brow serums have become a popular beauty trend because they can promote longer, fuller, and healthier lashes and brows. By understanding the science behind how these serums work, you can confidently recommend them to your clients.
At Lash and Beauty Store, we sell lash and brow serums from the Australian brand CanGro. CanGro makes the serums with natural, high-quality ingredients, including vitamins, peptides, and antioxidants that nourish and strengthen hair follicles. Check out Lash and Beauty Store’s selection of serums to help your clients achieve their dream lashes and brows!
