Your eyelashes grow, fall out, and replenish themselves in cycles just like the rest of your body hair. But if you feel that your eyelashes are too short, pale, or thin, you can do more than just blame genetics.
Apply False Eyelashes
Options for false eyelashes abound nowadays—from little "flares" that you can use to fill in bald spots to dramatic full sets you can layer over your natural lashes. Most falsies can be used a few times and are inexpensive, though they can be tricky to apply and take practice to achieve a natural look. Whatever you do, be sure to use a quality, non-irritating glue to adhere them to your lids.
Add Eyelash Extensions
Eyelash extensions are individual or clusters of lashes that adhere to your natural ones to thicken and extend them. When your natural lash falls out, so will the extension so these require some maintenance. The at-home kits are challenging to apply and yield results that last for two weeks as opposed to the eight weeks you can get from a professional application. However, the price tag can get hefty since you'll require frequent touch ups.
Eyelash Primers
Several companies offer eyelash primers, which are supposed to help your mascara be more effective and avoid clumping. This is an inexpensive option to try.
Eyelash Conditioners
Eyelash conditioners like Revitalash or Lilash work on the same principle as hair conditioners: strengthen thin or brittle lashes and help restore their natural growth cycle. This over-the-counter option is often available in both spas and from doctors.
Eyelash Serum
Latisse, currently the only FDA-approved prescription treatment to lengthen and thicken lashes, is a serum designed to prolong your eyelash growth cycle resulting in longer, thicker lashes. Originally developed as a glaucoma treatment, this serum is very effective. Unfortunately, it costs over $100 a month and as soon as you stop applying it, your lashes will return to their normal state.
Eyelash Curler & Mascara
This obvious choice is often overlooked, but in fact simply investing in a good quality curler and mascara can do wonders for your lashes. Mascara should be applied to the top and bottom of your upper lash, but not to bottom lashes, which can give you that buggy look.
Whatever your approach, remember that your eyelashes are primarily for protecting your eyes, so take care what you put near them. Also, trimming them will not do anything to stimulate their growth: it will only put you at risk for poking yourself in the eye.
Sources:
Latisse Manufacturer's Website: "Latisse." Web. Latisse.com 2010
http://www.latisse.com/
Revitalash Manufacturer's Website: "Revitalash Eyelash Conditioner." Web. Revitalash.com. 2010.
http://www.revitalash.com/
Eyelash-Growth.com: "Looking for an Eyelash Stimulator That Works." Web. Eyelash-growth.com. 2010
http://www.eyelash-growth.com/category/articles/
