Eyelash serums: A comprehensive review

Abstract

BackgroundEyelash serums, both prescription and over‐the‐counter, are gaining popularity for enhancing the appearance of eyelashes through various biologically active molecules. Categorized into prostaglandin analogs and non‐prostaglandin analogs, these serums claim increased strength, length, luster, and thickness. Current United States law also requires no efficacy or safety assessments by the Food and Drug Administration before approving products for consumer use, potentially posing health risks for patients seeking over‐the‐counter eyelash enhancements.AimsOur aims include exploring proposed benefits and adverse effects associated with eyelash serums, while providing evidence‐based clinical recommendations on their use. We aim to contribute valuable insights to the understanding of eyelash serums and their respective safety considerations.MethodsThe authors conducted a comprehensive electronic search across databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, and Google Scholar to evaluate eyelash serum ingredients. Articles were evaluated by two independent researchers for relevance, and the ingredients discussed were analyzed and given clinical recommendations for eyelash serums based off the Oxford Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine.ResultsResults highlight bimatoprost's efficacy, supported by numerous studies evaluating safety and adverse effects. Other prostaglandin ingredients show potential benefits, but further studies are encouraged to enhance the understanding of respective safety profiles. While non‐prostaglandins ingredients show promising data, more studies are needed due to a lack of formal evidence in eyelash serum use.ConclusionAs the cosmeceutical market for eyelash serums is growing, dermatologists need to be knowledgeable about evidence‐based information regarding prescription and over‐the‐counter eyelash serum products before making recommendations to patients.