5 Easy And Affordable Ways To Get Longer, Healthier Eyelashes

DIY lash serum for longer thicker eyelashes - collage: woman looking into mirror while brushing her eyelashes, woman with her eyes closed applying serum to eyelashes with a roller bottle

How To Get Longer Eyelashes Naturally

A few years ago now, a desire for longer and thicker eyelashes led me into a brief and unfortunate encounter with eyelash extensions. As in: I went and got them, then endured a brutal 72 hours of itching and burning before getting them removed.

Apparently my eyes simply arenโ€™t destined for long, luxurious eyelashes, which is rather disappointing because I really loved the way they looked! :-) Oh well. There is a certain point when the price of “beauty” is just too high to pay, and itchy, burning eyes is definitely one of those points!

Related: 15 Quick and Easy Remedies For Itchy, Red Eyes

After that debacle, I decided to look into other ways I might augment my somewhat skimpy lashes. That lead to the discovery of the super simple DIY lash serum I’ll be sharing with you today, along with few other tips and tricks I’ll share at the end of this post!

Check out my video at the end of the post where I try Magnetic Eyelashes for the first time.

DIY lash serum for longer thicker eyelashes - ingredients for eyelash serum: lavender oil, roller bottle, fractionated coconut oil

How To Make A Nourishing DIY Lash Serum

Youโ€™ll need:

DIY lash serum for longer thicker eyelashes - collage: woman's hand putting fractionated coconut oil into a roller bottle using an eyedropper, woman's hand putting a drop of lavender oil into the roller bottle full of fractionated coconut oil

Directions:

Remove the top from a glass roller bottle and fill it with fractionated coconut oil. Add a single drop of lavender essential oil on top of the coconut oil, then replace the roller top. Shake the bottle gently to combine the oils.

DIY lash serum for longer thicker eyelashes - woman putting serum on her eyelashes using a roller bottle

To use the serum, gently roll it over your lashes. Use clean fingers to spread the serum evenly along the length of your lashes, but be careful not to pull or tug on them. (And take care not to get any of the serum in your eyes as well!)

For best results, apply the serum once a day at bedtime. The beneficial fatty acids in the coconut oil will help moisturize and strengthen your lashes over time, while the lavender oil provides additional nourishment (and it just smells nice!) :-)

Related: 9 Practical Ways To Use Fractionated Coconut Oil In Everyday Life

4 More Ways To Promote Longer, Healthier Eyelashes

DIY lash serum for longer thicker eyelashes - collage: woman's hands putting tea bag into water, woman with wet teabags on her eyes.

1. Apply Green Tea

Green tea features beneficial properties like flavonoids that can help with lash growth. Just dip a cotton ball into warm or cool green tea and swipe it over your eyelashes, where it will help stimulate growth and clean the hair follicles, allowing for more substantial growth to occur.

Related: All-Natural Tea Treatments For Common Ailments

DIY lash serum for longer thicker eyelashes - woman looking into mirror while brushing her eyelashes

2. Brush Your Lashes

Another way to keep your eyelashes healthy and help stimulate growth is by brushing them twice a day with a lash comb. Brushing helps to distribute the natural oils along the length of your lashes to help keep them strong and evenly moisturized.

Related: 7 Simple Hacks That Will Make Your Eyes Look Younger

DIY lash serum for longer thicker eyelashes - woman at table eating a healthy meal

3. Eat Protein And Vitamins

Help promote lash growth and keep them healthy by making sure your diet is high in both protein and vitamins. Foods like fish, eggs, beans, and yogurt are all good choices that can contribute to healthy lashes, and soy protein can help promote lash growth.

DIY lash serum for longer thicker eyelashes - woman holding an eyelash curler in one hand and making a thumbs down with the other hand

4. Be Nice To Your Lashes

And last but not least (as well as a good reminder for me): be gentle with your eyelashes! Anything that can damage your lashes should be avoided if possible, including false lashes and lash curlers.

It’s almost impossible to remove false lashes without pulling out at least an eyelash or two. And lash curlers can lead to damage as well, either by causing breakage, or if your hand slips and you accidentally yank out a number of lashes! 

So if youโ€™re in pursuit of longer lashes, I hope you’ll give some of these tips a try for yourself! :-)

Do you have any tips or tricks related to eyelashes?

YouTube video
Curious about magnetic eyelashes? Check this out.

Read This Next


Jill Nystul Photo

Jill Nystul (aka Jillee)

Jill Nystul is an accomplished writer and author who founded the blog One Good Thing by Jillee in 2011. With over 30 years of experience in homemaking, she has become a trusted resource for contemporary homemakers by offering practical solutions to everyday household challenges.I share creative homemaking and lifestyle solutions that make your life easier and more enjoyable!

About Jillee

Jill Nystul

Jill’s 30 years of homemaking experience, make her the trusted source for practical household solutions.

About Jillee

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33 Comments

  1. I tried everything including natural remedy but only Dermalmd Eyelashes Growth Serum really worked. My lashes had gotten thin after having a baby but dermalmd serum thickened them up and increased length. Took about 6 weeks to notice a big difference. My eyes are usually very sensitive to products and this did not cause any irritation at all!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  2. Great article! Thanks for sharing that knowledge with us! I used Latisse for a while, then switched to Careprost (generic Latisse) (itโ€™s a way cheaper). I love it! Iโ€™m so happy Iโ€™ve found โ€œHotlash247โ€ in Google and got Careprost. You can see a real difference in 2 weeks. I have used Careprost for a about year now. Itโ€™s worth it because my eyelashes are now extremely long and curly. When people talk to me, they end up staring at my eyes and smiling. I get so many compliments and comments. Absolutely beautiful. My eyelashes definitely became longer, fuller, and darker.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  3. Hi Jillee! I made this but had a hard time applying it to my lashes from a roll-on bottle. Instead, I put in a dropper bottle and cleaned an old eyebrow brush, put some serum in my palm, rolled the brush in the serum, and brushed it onto my lashes. This seemed to be a much easier way for me. I am also trying this on my brows. As my hair began to thin with age, I noticed my lashes and brows doing so, as well. My brows are nearly non-existent! Does anyone out there know a magical brow growing cure?? If so…HELP!!!!!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • I live in Western Massachusetts, and we have a Walgreen’s Pharmacy near to where we live. They carry an inexpensive make up called “Wet and Wild.” I love their foundation, lipsticks, eye brow pencils and mascara. The mascara does the trick for my spare eyelashes and makes them so much longer than they are.
      Due to having glaucoma, I asked my ophthalmologist about any oil near my eyes, he told me that he would not advise doing that. He said that mascara was fine so long as it was not more than six months old.

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  4. I have been using emu oil off and on for years because I read somewhere it promotes hair growth. I wonder why whoever makes Rogaine hasn’t come up with an affordable option.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • Because they couldn’t make any money off of people!

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  5. I have only heard that CASTOR OIL can be used to improve eyebrow and eyelash growth/thickness.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  6. Thank you for all of your tips and hints. You have never let me astray! On this one, I think a video tutorial might be really helpful. I can’t picture how to apply it to my lashes without it getting in my eyes. Any chance of a video?

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  7. you forgot one amazing oil Castor oil most eyelash serum use castor oil as the base. My recipe
    in a small travel squeeze bottle. Combine 1/2 travel bottle castor oil, 1/4 avocado oil 1/4 coconut oil. Using a clean mascara brush or fine tip brush to coat eyelashes before bed.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  8. I agree. Proper diet also takes part. Moisturize your lashes to avoid itchiness and other problem in the future. BTW, These are most informative and so helpful information I have read. Well done!!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  9. I use castor oil on both my lashes and eyebrows. Simply apply with either your finger or a clean mascara wand. My eyelashes are conditioned and are filled in and long like they looked in high school! Be patient but it works! Also castor oil reduces dark circles and keeps eye area soft and lovely!! Highly recommend!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  10. I put a drop of lavender essential oil into my mascara tube. It does two things: promotes growth and extends my mascara by helping it not clump as quickly. Been doing it a long time. It works so well. I’m going to try your eyelash serum too! Thank you. :)

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  11. I have used just plain coconut oil for a good while. I rub it all around my eyes. My lashes have grown and gotten thicker

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  12. I thought maybe I was the only one wishing I had the lovely thick lashes I had when I was younger.. So… will try this but I hate the smell of coconut oil, going to try this pure argan oil I found.. one ingredient.. argan oil.. will let you know in 4 to 6 weeks how it goes.. Here’s to thick lashes!!!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • Almond oil is a major ingredient in many lash serums as well. You could try that out. As well as cold pressed castor oil :)

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  13. Sure I will give it a try. Thanks! These amazing home remedies are the most effective way in growing your lashes fabulously!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  14. Those are amazing tips. I ALWAYS put green tea bags on my eyes on my eyelids to make my eyes and skin look less tired, but I had no idea to helps to follicles too!.. %)
    As to coconut oil, I agree it’s helpful, but I just don’t tolerate oils any close to my eyeballs. :( So I have to use serums enhancers like Cherish Lash – I am quite satisfied with the length of my eyelashes after a course of it.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  15. Have you heard of Rodan and Fields? They have a product that is a mascara called Lash Boost! I’ve actually seen a difference on several family members that use this product and has also they have been using it on their eyebrows as well!! Imagine that paying for a product that is made for one reason but can also benefit for another. Two for the price on one!!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • I use Rodan and Fields Lash Boost and it is incredible. Lashes are beautiful. My friend uses it for brows and has seen significant results. Takes 4-6 weeks, but well worth it.

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  16. I’ve had same good results as Sandi. I add a drop or 2 of lavender oil to a new tube of mascara. My lashed have grown much longer. Google eyelash mites (ugh; we’ve all got them) and then get some lavender essential oil!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  17. After I started adding a drop of lavender essential oil to my mascara, I noticed a difference in my lashes! So easy…

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  18. My daughter has been using the Lash and Brow Building Serum from Mary Kay with great results!! Her lashes look amazingly longer and fuller!!! I have just ordered some for myself. (Not a DIY, obviously, but gets results).

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  19. Yes, I’ve heard castor oil is great for hair, brow and eyelash growth.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  20. I put a drop of lavender and a drop of cedarwood essential oils each time I buy a tube of mascara. I have noticed a difference in my lashes since I’ve been doing this.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  21. Can these be used by those that wear contact lenses?

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • Yes, but only after you’ve take out your contacts for the night (just to be safe!). :-)

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  22. I think castor oil really makes the hair shaft appear thicker not promote growth!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • I tried castor oil on my eyebrows to stimulate growth and either it worked or was amazing coincidence-unlike Ristasis (sp?prescription) it does not have to be done continually to maintain. It is my go-to if I happen to over-tweeze. So if it works for brows might just work for lashes….

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  23. Thanks. I really needed these ideas. My eyelashes actually suddenly started falling off one of my eyelids. They have kind of started to grow back. I feel like a space alien. I have been using castor oil at night and a lash serum by Rimmel.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.

Leave a Comment

33 Comments

  1. I tried everything including natural remedy but only Dermalmd Eyelashes Growth Serum really worked. My lashes had gotten thin after having a baby but dermalmd serum thickened them up and increased length. Took about 6 weeks to notice a big difference. My eyes are usually very sensitive to products and this did not cause any irritation at all!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  2. Great article! Thanks for sharing that knowledge with us! I used Latisse for a while, then switched to Careprost (generic Latisse) (itโ€™s a way cheaper). I love it! Iโ€™m so happy Iโ€™ve found โ€œHotlash247โ€ in Google and got Careprost. You can see a real difference in 2 weeks. I have used Careprost for a about year now. Itโ€™s worth it because my eyelashes are now extremely long and curly. When people talk to me, they end up staring at my eyes and smiling. I get so many compliments and comments. Absolutely beautiful. My eyelashes definitely became longer, fuller, and darker.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  3. Hi Jillee! I made this but had a hard time applying it to my lashes from a roll-on bottle. Instead, I put in a dropper bottle and cleaned an old eyebrow brush, put some serum in my palm, rolled the brush in the serum, and brushed it onto my lashes. This seemed to be a much easier way for me. I am also trying this on my brows. As my hair began to thin with age, I noticed my lashes and brows doing so, as well. My brows are nearly non-existent! Does anyone out there know a magical brow growing cure?? If so…HELP!!!!!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • I live in Western Massachusetts, and we have a Walgreen’s Pharmacy near to where we live. They carry an inexpensive make up called “Wet and Wild.” I love their foundation, lipsticks, eye brow pencils and mascara. The mascara does the trick for my spare eyelashes and makes them so much longer than they are.
      Due to having glaucoma, I asked my ophthalmologist about any oil near my eyes, he told me that he would not advise doing that. He said that mascara was fine so long as it was not more than six months old.

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  4. I have been using emu oil off and on for years because I read somewhere it promotes hair growth. I wonder why whoever makes Rogaine hasn’t come up with an affordable option.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • Because they couldn’t make any money off of people!

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  5. I have only heard that CASTOR OIL can be used to improve eyebrow and eyelash growth/thickness.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  6. Thank you for all of your tips and hints. You have never let me astray! On this one, I think a video tutorial might be really helpful. I can’t picture how to apply it to my lashes without it getting in my eyes. Any chance of a video?

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  7. you forgot one amazing oil Castor oil most eyelash serum use castor oil as the base. My recipe
    in a small travel squeeze bottle. Combine 1/2 travel bottle castor oil, 1/4 avocado oil 1/4 coconut oil. Using a clean mascara brush or fine tip brush to coat eyelashes before bed.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  8. I agree. Proper diet also takes part. Moisturize your lashes to avoid itchiness and other problem in the future. BTW, These are most informative and so helpful information I have read. Well done!!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  9. I use castor oil on both my lashes and eyebrows. Simply apply with either your finger or a clean mascara wand. My eyelashes are conditioned and are filled in and long like they looked in high school! Be patient but it works! Also castor oil reduces dark circles and keeps eye area soft and lovely!! Highly recommend!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  10. I put a drop of lavender essential oil into my mascara tube. It does two things: promotes growth and extends my mascara by helping it not clump as quickly. Been doing it a long time. It works so well. I’m going to try your eyelash serum too! Thank you. :)

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  11. I have used just plain coconut oil for a good while. I rub it all around my eyes. My lashes have grown and gotten thicker

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  12. I thought maybe I was the only one wishing I had the lovely thick lashes I had when I was younger.. So… will try this but I hate the smell of coconut oil, going to try this pure argan oil I found.. one ingredient.. argan oil.. will let you know in 4 to 6 weeks how it goes.. Here’s to thick lashes!!!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • Almond oil is a major ingredient in many lash serums as well. You could try that out. As well as cold pressed castor oil :)

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  13. Sure I will give it a try. Thanks! These amazing home remedies are the most effective way in growing your lashes fabulously!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  14. Those are amazing tips. I ALWAYS put green tea bags on my eyes on my eyelids to make my eyes and skin look less tired, but I had no idea to helps to follicles too!.. %)
    As to coconut oil, I agree it’s helpful, but I just don’t tolerate oils any close to my eyeballs. :( So I have to use serums enhancers like Cherish Lash – I am quite satisfied with the length of my eyelashes after a course of it.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  15. Have you heard of Rodan and Fields? They have a product that is a mascara called Lash Boost! I’ve actually seen a difference on several family members that use this product and has also they have been using it on their eyebrows as well!! Imagine that paying for a product that is made for one reason but can also benefit for another. Two for the price on one!!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • I use Rodan and Fields Lash Boost and it is incredible. Lashes are beautiful. My friend uses it for brows and has seen significant results. Takes 4-6 weeks, but well worth it.

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  16. I’ve had same good results as Sandi. I add a drop or 2 of lavender oil to a new tube of mascara. My lashed have grown much longer. Google eyelash mites (ugh; we’ve all got them) and then get some lavender essential oil!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  17. After I started adding a drop of lavender essential oil to my mascara, I noticed a difference in my lashes! So easy…

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  18. My daughter has been using the Lash and Brow Building Serum from Mary Kay with great results!! Her lashes look amazingly longer and fuller!!! I have just ordered some for myself. (Not a DIY, obviously, but gets results).

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  19. Yes, I’ve heard castor oil is great for hair, brow and eyelash growth.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  20. I put a drop of lavender and a drop of cedarwood essential oils each time I buy a tube of mascara. I have noticed a difference in my lashes since I’ve been doing this.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  21. Can these be used by those that wear contact lenses?

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • Yes, but only after you’ve take out your contacts for the night (just to be safe!). :-)

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  22. I think castor oil really makes the hair shaft appear thicker not promote growth!

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.
    • I tried castor oil on my eyebrows to stimulate growth and either it worked or was amazing coincidence-unlike Ristasis (sp?prescription) it does not have to be done continually to maintain. It is my go-to if I happen to over-tweeze. So if it works for brows might just work for lashes….

      Please log in or create a free account to comment.
  23. Thanks. I really needed these ideas. My eyelashes actually suddenly started falling off one of my eyelids. They have kind of started to grow back. I feel like a space alien. I have been using castor oil at night and a lash serum by Rimmel.

    Please log in or create a free account to comment.