Castor oil also contains Vitamin E, proteins, and Omega fatty acids that condition, strengthen, and moisturize hair. [1] X Research source Look for cold-pressed castor oil and avoid anything meant for industrial use. [2] X Research source

Coconut oil is a highly effective moisturizer that is quickly absorbed by the skin so it can begin working faster. [3] X Research source Coconut oil reduces protein loss in your hair to repair and nourish your eyelashes. [4] X Research source The medium chain triglycerides found in coconut oil may also help waterproof and protect your hair from drying out when you use products that can sap the moisture from your hair. [5] X Research source

Jojoba oil is an emollient that is also very efficient in unclogging hair follicles that may not be growing hair or growing hair inefficiency. Sweet almond oil contains biotin, a B vitamin that is believed to strengthen hair and increase growth. [6] X Research source Vitamin E is often sold in capsules. Pierce the capsule with a needle and squeeze it into your serum. Vitamin E is said to keep your hair follicles healthy by increasing circulation and strengthening hair.

Swipe the cotton swab over your lashes or run the spoolie brush through your lashes. Make sure your lashes are completely coated with the serum. You can also apply the serum with the tip of your fingers (this may help liquify the coconut oil if it has solidified). Just be sure your fingers are clean so you don’t get any dirt or germs in your eyes. These ingredients won’t harm your eyes if a little of the serum drips into them, but your vision may be temporarily blurry. It’s a good idea to try to avoid contact with your eyes.

Prescription growth serums work by tricking your hair follicles into a longer growth period. With a longer growth period, your lashes may, in fact, grow longer than your genetics would normally allow. These serums do have some severe side effects, so discuss these with your doctor before asking for a prescription. Vitamin E is very rich and can clog pores. If you are prone to breakouts or oily skin, you may want to try another ingredient or just be extra careful not to get any on your skin. [8] X Research source

Separating your lashes by combing can also make them appear longer.

Use the pads of your fingers to very gently rub the base of your lash line. Use circular motions and don’t tug or pull on the skin.

If you are constantly pulling out your eyelashes as you remove the false lashes, you can actually cause traction alopecia, which means your lashes will no longer grow. [11] X Research source

Try to avoid waterproof mascara, as it can dry out your eyelashes, which makes them more prone to breaking. [13] X Research source

Eat dark greens like broccoli, kale, spinach, and Swiss chard for vitamin A and C. Vitamin deficiencies can actually cause your eyelashes to fall out. [15] X Research source Proteins like turkey, chicken, nuts, beans, lentils, eggs, yogurt, and cheese will give your body the building blocks it needs to grow new hair. [16] X Research source Bananas, beer, oats, and raisins contain silica, a mineral that may increase hair thickness. [17] X Research source

If you have stubborn mascara that won’t come off (like a long-lasting or waterproof mascara), try an oil-based makeup remover to break it down. Gently rub the oil over your eyelid, then hold a cotton pad against your eyelid for about 30 seconds. Swipe the pad downward and this should remove most of the mascara. Rubbing itchy eyes can also cause damage to your lashes. Try allergy-fighting eyedrops instead and keep your hands in your lap!