Many of us want luscious eyelashes but, for many women, however, they are nothing more than a dream. Eyelash Hypotrichosis is a condition characterized by eyelashes of shorter than average length and thickness or fewer than the average number of eyelashes. Eyelash hypotrichosis, usually attributed to genetic causes, physical trauma, aging, or certain medical treatments, is a clinical condition for which there are many treatments.
Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, founder of Toronto’s Bay Dermatology Centre, understands eyelash thinning through the lens of a scientific practitioner and has reviewed all the leading treatments on the market. See what he has to say about eyelash growth and enhancement techniques.
Evaluation of popular methods for eyelash growth
The Internet provides easy access to a wealth of information, but that information is only as reliable as its source. Countless home remedies for eyelash growth are just a click away, but few of them are clinically tested or scientifically proven. In fact, some of them may do more harm than good.
Here are some of the most popular eyelash growth methods found on the Internet:
- Vaseline – This treatment is said to hydrate the base and root of the lashes to reduce lash loss, keeping lashes in place so they can grow.
- Coconut oil – Rich in nutritious fatty acids and proteins, coconut oil can provide natural moisturizing benefits that can encourage eyelash growth.
- Castor oil – Applied to the lashes, castor oil can provide intense moisture and can reduce breakage which, in turn, could lead to healthier growth.
- Eyelash cutting – In the same way that regular hair brushing stimulates the growth of follicles, trimming your eyelashes can make them grow faster and stronger.
What does Dr. Skotnicki say?
There is no scientific evidence to support the use of petroleum jelly or coconut oil to improve eyelash growth or prevent eyelash loss. Castor oil is the only herbal remedy that appears, in limited research, to improve hair loss when used consistently. The data does not support cutting eyelashes to enhance strength or length.
Medical treatments for eyelash growth
While over-the-counter remedies like petroleum jelly and coconut oil have little basis in scientific evidence, there are medical treatments for thinning eyelashes. The main medical treatment for eyelash hirsutism is Bimatoprost, sold under the brand name Latisse.
Applied to the upper lid every night, Latisse has been shown to make lashes longer, thicker and darker after 4 weeks of continuous use. This treatment changes the cyclic pattern of eyelash growth, increasing the percentage of hair follicles in the growth phase. Although many users noticed an improvement in the appearance of their eyelashes, 4% experienced eye redness or itching. Other common side effects include darkening of the skin, eye irritation and dry eyes.
What does Dr. Skotnicki say?
The drug Bimatoprost (brand name Latisse) has been clinically proven to thicken and lengthen fine hairs such as eyelashes when used regularly. The drug may prolong the eyelash growth cycle before shedding.
Non-medical options for longer eyelashes
Medical options like Latisse deliver results in as little as 4 weeks, but, for many women, that’s just too long to wait. If you’re looking for more immediate results, the two most popular non-medical options are eyelash extensions and lash-boosting mascara.
Eyelash extensions consist of artificial lashes that are applied individually over your natural lashes as an alternative to strip lashes. They are applied with glue and can take six to eight weeks to fall off naturally. A full set, typically 70 to 80 lashes per eye, costs between $100 and $400 with refills ranging from $50 to $165. Improper application comes with the risk of traction alopecia or loss of eyelashes.
Like traditional mascara, lash boosting mascara gives natural lashes the appearance of being fuller, fuller and longer. However, it also contains ingredients like arginine, acidic proteins and provitamin B5 that are supposed to boost eyelash growth as well.
What does Dr. Skotnicki say?
Both eyelash extensions and lash-enhancing mascara enhance the appearance of natural lashes but do not appear to affect their growth. Unfortunately, eyelash extensions can damage the natural eyelash and some women develop an allergy to the glue used to apply them. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that lash-boosting mascara improves eyelash growth.
When it comes to long, full and healthy lashes, there are no shortcuts. Makeup and cosmetic procedures can improve the appearance of natural lashes, but changes in the length, thickness and number of lashes take time – even with approved medical treatments like Latisse. The best you can do is eat a healthy diet, make smart makeup choices, and consult a doctor before trying any home remedies or prescription remedies.
Originally published 01-12-2020 20:05:10.
