How You Can Get Sexy Long Lashes
There is nothing sexier than batting your eyelashes at a guy from across the room, but when your lashes feel brittle, thin, or are falling out, you're more apt to more on a pair of big sunglasses than flaunt them. We tapped into our experts to get the latest and greatest on lash treatments, tricks, and techniques to get longer-looking lashes.
Related: VIDEO: Maximize Your Lashes
Q: I've heard a lot about the new eyelash growth treatment. Does it work, and is it safe?
A: The newly FDA approved eyelash treatment LATISSE® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03%) has been on the market since early 2009, says Real Beauty expert Dr. Eric Schweiger, M.D. Latisse is a daily solution you apply topically to the upper eyelashes. In a clinical study, patients noticed improvement in two months with full results after four months. Continued use as necessary to maintain benefit. I have prescribed Latisse to many patients and thus far all have reported noticeable success with it. The most common side effects after using Latisse are an itching sensation in the eyes or eye redness, which were reported in under 5% of patients. Rare side effects include darkening of the eyelid skin. Latisse users should also know that a few patients who used topical bimatoprost for glaucoma (they put it in the eye) had a change in color of the pigmented part of the eyeball. While this has not been seen yet in users who apply Latisse to their eyelashes, it is a theoretical potential side effect of which patients should be aware.
Related: How Claire Danes Got Longer Lashes with Latisse
Q:
How can I make my lashes look longer naturally?
A: Curl them. Gently squeeze once at the roots and hold down for five seconds. Then, place the mascara brush at the base of your lashes, jiggle it slightly, and pull it through in a slow zigzag motion. This will evenly coat each lash without weighing them down.
Related: An Asian Gal's Guide to Eyelash Curling
Q:
What's the best way to apply mascara to your lower lashes?
A: Lightly tap the mascara wand against your lashes to give them just a hint of color and definition, recommends Real Beauty makeup expert Shalini Vadhera.
Related: Real Beauty's Ultimate Mascara Challenge
Q: How do I stop my eyelashes from falling out?
A: There can be a number of different factors, but to start, avoid using old makeup. It's extremely important to keep tabs on how long you've had your beauty products, particularly eye makeup. Most mascaras contain an antibacterial agent in the formula, protecting your eyes from bacteria for around three to six months. Your risk of getting an eye infection from an old mascara increases as you wait longer and longer to throw it out.
Related: Find Out When Your Makeup Expires
Related Links
Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
