Full, fluttery lashes. Everyone wants them, but if your existing ones are thinning due to age or you weren’t naturally blessed with a full fringe, achieving that wide-eyed effect can feel like an uphill battle. The good news? You don’t need to commit to extensions to make your lashes look noticeably fuller.
From growth-supporting serums and conditioning treatments to volumizing mascaras, there are plenty of ways to enhance what you already have. Below, we tapped the experts to find out their favorite formulas for getting the most out of your natural lashes — no extensions or salon appointments required.
This lash-conditioning serum
Both board-certified aesthetic physicians associate Rocio Romero of Row 89 and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shannon Humphrey approve of this lash-boosting formula from Revitalash. "This over-the-counter serum contains a prostaglandin analogue, which can influence the natural lash growth cycle, alongside conditioning ingredients that may help support lash resilience and reduce breakage," said Humphrey. Just note that prostaglandins or prostaglandin analogs can cause side effects such as eye irritation and eyelid darkening.
A prostaglandin-free alternative
For a prostaglandin-free eyelash serum, Dr. Humphrey is a fan of this one from Vegamour, which she said offers a different approach that focuses more on "improving the condition of existing lashes rather than pharmacologically stimulating growth." Conditioning ingredients may help minimize breakage, leaving lashes looking glossier, healthier and potentially fuller over time, she added. This one is also good for those with sensitive eyes who prefer a gentler, conditioning-focused approach to lash care.
This makeup-artist approved mascara
For makeup artist Tim Quinn, this mascara from Armani Beauty is a favorite. "I love that you can really build the volume without the lashes looking too heavy," he said. It features an oversized brush with a unique bristle-weave design that grabs and coats lashes from root to tip, helping create the appearance of thicker, longer, more defined lashes. To apply, Quinn recommended starting at the base, wiggling the brush and pulling it through to the tips. "That little movement helps create fullness while keeping the lashes nicely separated," he said.
A lash serum-mascara primer hybrid
One of the best ways to get the most out of your mascara is by using an eyelash primer, and this one from Lancôme is Quinn-approved. "I love a good lash primer, particularly when lashes have become a little finer — this one really helps give the mascara something to build on," said Quinn. "I apply a light coat and then go in with mascara before it completely dries." The result: lashes that appear thicker, longer and more voluminous, without having to pile on endless coats of mascara.
This lash-lifting curler
Even if your lashes are naturally long, a good curler can make all the difference in your final look. "The Tweezerman ProCurl Lash curler gives a nice lift and helps open up the eyes," said Romero. The curler is made with a wide, curved opening designed to reach lashes from the inner to outer corners along with silicone pads that provide a comfortable cushion to help prevent pinching and crimping.
A set of individual lashes
A long-wear tubing mascara
For an everyday mascara, Romero said you can't go wrong with this tubing formula from Blinc. Unlike traditional mascaras that coat lashes with pigment, this one uses tubing technology to wrap each individual lash in tiny, water-resistant tubes, creating the appearance of added length and definition. Romero also noted that it comes off with warm water and gentle pressure, meaning you don't have to worry about excessive rubbing or tugging that can weaken lashes and contribute to breakage over time.
A fatty-acid rich lengthening mascara
Our pick: Eye sensitivity can also increase with age, so this reader-favorite mascara from Merit is a good option for anyone with whose eyes have become drier or more easily irritated with the passage of time. It’s packed with fatty acids and olive oil esters to condition each lash. “I wear it everyday,” one reviewer commented. “It is the only mascara that does not irritate my eyes, it feels [lightweight] and gives a fresh, awake look.”