Mascara is a necessary staple in many makeup routines. People praise it for its ability to darken, lengthen, and volumize eyelashes. However, there is often a misconception about whether mascara can actually make your eyelashes grow longer.
Let’s dive into the science behind this question and explore its effects on eyelash growth. Keep reading the article to know the answer to the question, “Can mascara make lashes grow longer or not?”
Photo by: Shiny Diamond
What Is Mascara?
Mascara is used to enhance the appearance of eyelashes. It typically comes in a tube or small container with a mascara brush applicator and is available in various formulas, including waterproof, washable, tubing, volumizing, lengthening, and curling.
The primary ingredients in mascara include pigments, oils, waxes, and preservatives, which work together to coat the lashes and create the desired effect.
The Myth of Mascara-Induced Growth
The notion that mascara can make your eyelashes grow longer is a common beauty myth. Mascara may coat your lashes with fibers to temporarily lengthen and volumize them, but in its traditional form, it does not contain any ingredients that can stimulate lash growth. Instead, it works by temporarily enhancing the appearance of your lashes.
Here’s how mascara achieves its effects:
- Pigmentation: Mascara adds color to the lashes, making them more visible and giving the illusion of thickness and length.
- Coating: The waxes and oils in mascara coat each lash, adding volume and a sense of fullness.
- Lengthening Fibers: Some mascaras contain tiny fibers that adhere to the tips of the lashes, creating a temporary extension effect.
These effects are purely dramatic due to the use of mascara, and they last only until the mascara is removed.
Eyelash Growth: The Biological Perspective
Eyelash growth is a natural process influenced by genetics and health. Lashes grow, rest, and fall out in a cycle similar to the hair on your head. This cycle consists of three phases:
Anagen (Growth Phase): This is when the eyelashes are actively growing. This phase can last from 30 to 45 days.
Catagen (Transition Phase): This brief phase occurs when the hair stops growing and detaches from the blood supply.
Telogen (Resting Phase): During this phase, the lash rests before eventually falling out and being replaced by a new one.
The entire eyelash growth cycle can take about three to four months.
Products That Actually Promote Eyelash Growth
While traditional mascaras do not promote eyelash growth, certain products and treatments are specifically designed to enhance lash growth. These include:
Eyelash Serums: Over-the-counter and prescription serums contain ingredients like peptides, vitamins, and prostaglandin analogs that can stimulate lash growth and improve overall lash health.
Biotin Supplements: Experts often recommend biotin, a B vitamin, for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails. While the evidence is mixed, some people find that biotin supplements help improve the strength and length of their lashes.
Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall hair health, including eyelashes.
The Role of Conditioning Mascaras
Some mascaras are formulated with conditioning ingredients such as peptides, vitamins, and natural oils. While these ingredients can help strengthen and protect the lashes, they do not directly cause them to grow longer. Instead, they can prevent breakage and promote healthier lashes, which may contribute to a fuller appearance over time.
Conclusion
In summary, mascara is an effective tool for enhancing the appearance of your eyelashes. It does not have the capability to make them grow longer over time. The apparent lengthening effect of mascara is purely temporary.
For those seeking to promote actual eyelash growth, products like eyelash serums, biotin supplements, and a nutritious diet are more promising options.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment to ensure it is safe and suitable for you.
Recommendation
Additionally, opt for a serum-infused lash primer. The popular brand Maybelline introduced the lash primer with an eyelash serum-infused formula. Regular use of this primer can help your eyelashes grow longer over time.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Serum Infused Tinted Lash Primer: Review, features, and performance, including before and after results.