Considering the popularity of false eyelashes and lash extensions, it’s safe to say that long eyelashes are one of the most dominant beauty trends. A study on the relationship between eyelash length and beauty revealed that women with long eyelashes are considered more attractive than their counterparts. The researchers believed that this preference is both a biologically adaptive phenomenon and a cultural effect.

Due to this trend, however, companies have been creating eyelash products — many of which have potentially harmful chemicals. The FDA warns that eyelash dyes have been known to cause serious eye conditions, including blindness. Meanwhile, eyelash extensions and false eyelashes require adhesives that can cause allergic reactions, irritations, and eye injuries. The good news is that you can have longer and healthier lashes by caring for them naturally. To illustrate, here are some natural care tips for eyelashes:

Avoid Using Harmful Lash Products

When it comes to lash care, patience is truly a virtue. Though false eyelashes and lash extensions can instantly make your lashes look longer, these can be harmful due to the adhesives used. On the other hand, using a lash growth serum every night is a safe and effective way to enhance your eyelashes’ appearance. These serums also make your lashes healthier by providing them with moisture and protecting them against any breakage. While they’re not an instant solution for longer lashes, lash serums prime your lashes so that they can look longer and darker over time.

Consume Food that Boosts Hair Growth

You can also enhance the appearance of your lashes by consuming a nutrient-rich diet. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that you consume a diet that contains protein, iron, fruits, and vegetables to promote healthy lash growth. You can also eat food rich in vitamins A, B, D, and E to strengthen and lengthen your lashes. For instance, vegetables like spinach and broccoli contain Vitamin E, which boosts cell regeneration for healthier lashes. Beans are also a good source of iron, biotin, and protein, which can improve the strength of your lashes.

Protect Your Lashes from Breakage

Many people unconsciously rub or tug at their lashes whenever they curl them, apply mascara, or remove their makeup. Unfortunately, these can cause your lashes to become brittle and prone to breakage. So if you want to prevent lash breakages, it’s important to be gentle with them when applying and removing your eye makeup. To illustrate, remove stubborn mascara with papaya seed oil instead of using harsh makeup removers. Unlike commercial makeup removers, papaya seed oil contains behenic acid, which can help in preventing hair breakages.

Brush Your Eyelashes Regularly

It may seem odd to brush your lashes, but it’s important to remember that they are made of the same components as the hair on your head. As such, brushing them regularly is a great way to maintain and strengthen them. This simple act evenly distributes the natural oils across your lashes so that they remain strong and nourished over time. To do this, you can use a clean spoolie or a lash comb to brush through the fine hairs. Do the process for fifteen to twenty seconds twice a day for the best results.

If you want longer and stronger lashes, don’t take harmful shortcuts. Instead, care for your lashes naturally by using safe lash growth serums, consuming a nutrient-rich diet, preventing lash breakage, and brushing your lashes. These simple practices will improve the appearance and the health of your lashes over time. That way, you won’t have to resort to the use of potentially harmful products.