Lush, dark eyelashes are an object of desire, and people will go to incredible lengths to achieve them. Lash-growth serum is the latest trend, and the optometry team at Dr. L. R. Gabe in Navajo County, AZ advises that it could be a major risk to the overall health of your eyes. Unless approved by your eye doctor, using at-home lash-growth serums can have lifelong consequences.

What Is Lash-Growth Serum?

Along with mascara, implants, extensions, and other cosmetic enhancements, lash-growth serum is used to give people thick, beautiful eyelashes. These serums, which come as a gel or cream that you apply twice a day, stimulate eyelash growth by extending lash follicle growth phases and strengthening existing lashes so they don’t fall out. By maintaining more lashes, creating new growth, and promoting longer growth, the result is a thicker, darker set of eyelashes. Lash-growth serums have been extremely effective for people with thin eyelash conditions, but mainstream use has brought the safety of them into question.

Why Is It Dangerous?

Over-the-counter lash-growth serums aren’t FDA-approved. While they contain safe vitamins, the side-effects are extensive: itchy and red eyes, darkening eyelids, hair growth in unwanted areas where the serum was accidentally applied, irregular iris discoloration, and reduced eye pressure. While these aren’t considered medically significant, dry eye–related issues can become long-term problems. Coupled with any existing conditions, lash-growth serums can cause damage to tear film on the surface of each eye. Chronic redness and inflammation are another dangerous effect and can lead to the development of lifelong dry eye conditions.

Before trying any lash-growth products, always consult with your eye doctor. The vision care team at Dr. L. R. Gabe specialize in a variety of areas and can advise you on the best practices to ensure you’re taking care of your eyes properly. Call (928) 537-5565 today to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor and visit their website and Facebook page to learn more about their eye care center.