These Are The 7 Best Clean Eyelash Growth Serums On The Market

Some skin care products are more accessible than others given the divide between prescription-grade and over-the-counter (OTC) items. But thanks to modern technology and research, plenty of safe and effective OTC products are gaining traction.

One popular prescription item-turned-OTC holy grail: eyelash serums. While dermatologists can certainly provide access to clinically studied growth-focused formulas, there are more than a few A+ options on the market as is—here are our favorite clean lash serums that will enhance your lashes to falsies status in no time.

Here's the thing: Eyelash serums are not always formulated to actually make your lashes grow faster but instead nourish the lashes you already have. While some people may experience growth when using nourishing products, there isn't much clinical evidence to back up those claims. 

This doesn't mean OTC eyelash serums are useless, however. "I do think that the emollient properties of these oils may be helpful if the eyelashes or brows are becoming brittle and broken due to the use of mascara, adhesives, false eyelashes, and curling devices," board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, M.D., tells mbg. 

Some more popular ingredients, like peptides, have been researched in recent years and provide promising results for eyelash health. In this study1, researchers found that some peptides (myristoyl pentapeptide-17 and myristoyl hexapeptide-16) stimulate keratin production, a key factor in hair growth. The results of their study included increased lash curl, length, volume, and thickness. Increased growth itself, however, was not documented.

To sum it up: OTC lash serums can certainly encourage healthier lashes (read: longer, stronger, thicker, etc.) but will not likely encourage increased growth, per se. When your lashes are healthier, though, fallout and brittleness will likely decrease, meaning you'll hold on to your lashes for longer. And strong, thriving lashes certainly look longer, too.

Even with a list of A+ options, it can still be hard to decide which one is the best fit for you. The main thing to remember is that these serums can certainly improve the look and feel of your lashes and make them appear fuller, thicker, and healthier, even if they don't directly increase growth like prescription-grade options. Still, these are a few factors to consider:

At mbg, high standards are earned and there are no shortcuts. Our beauty editors stay up to date on the latest ingredient research and innovation. It's a dynamic, continuously evolving space, and it's important we look into the science so we can make informed choices about which formulas earn our stamp of approval (figuratively speaking).

Our high standards also come from testing products—many, many products. Our editors and writers rigorously test and research the products featured in our roundups to offer you the best, most informed recommendations. When we write reviews, you can trust we spend quality time with the formulas: We don't simply rave about products we've slathered on the back of our hand. We endorse products we've tried and loved. 

Learn more about our testing process and clean beauty standards here. 

Eyelash serums can offer a boost of nourishment that will encourage healthier-looking lashes, which can appear longer, thicker, and even darker. OTC products will not be as effective at actually stimulating growth, but dermatologists can provide prescription-grade products if need be. Otherwise, look for lash serums with clean, hydrating ingredients, and always remember to check before you buy to avoid less than stellar formulas. And remember: A high-quality mascara can help your lashes look even more fluttery on the road to lash transformation—here are some of our favorites if you're on the hunt.