How to Have Longer Eyelashes after 50
If you’re like me and miss having beautiful thick eyelashes after menopause today I am sharing the 3 eyelash enhancing options I have tried the last 4 years.
I started to realize that my eyelashes were thinning out in 2016 when I was beginning to write this 50ish blog and taking close-ups. It’s amazing how taking a close up photo of yourself over 50 makes you very aware of your wrinkles, thinning hair, and lack of eyelashes.
Along with my hair thinning, this has been the most surprising aspect of being over 50ish! I didn’t know hair loss and thinning eyelashes happened in my 50’s? I thought it happened later in life. Surprise!!! Menopause has been a very interesting time for me and I am sure it’s been a real eye-opener for you too!
Related Post: Lifestyle over 50: Where are my Eyelashes?
Eyelash Extensions
I began using eyelash extensions about 3 years ago right before my son’s wedding. This is the most expensive solution to having thicker lashes. Instant gratification always comes with a higher price. I haven’t gone back to getting eyelash extensions since COVID-19 changed our world because I found a cheaper way of having thick lashes. (Keep reading..)
Honestly, there were aspects of it that I loved about having eyelash extensions. I loved how they made me feel so put together when I woke up and I loved how wearing them cut down my time getting ready for work or play.
How Eyelash Extensions are Applied
The entire process takes about an hour (most people use it as an opportunity to have a quick nap), during which individual eyelash extensions are glued to the base of your natural lashes with an adhesive. You can’t open your eyes for the entire time.
It’s crucial not to get your lash extensions wet for 24-48 hours after application. To prolong their lifespan, it’s also important to avoid oil-based eyeliner, mascara, and you have to be careful when washing your face. This can especially be a bit of a nuisance in the shower.
When cared for properly, the extensions can last anywhere from two to six weeks and fall off gently, or as your natural lashes shed.
Pros:
- Eyelash extensions give you instantly beautiful eyes
- A fantastic way to look younger
- You wake up looking great without any other makeup on
- No need to apply mascara which cuts down your time putting on makeup
Cons:
- Upkeep is expensive. I had touch-ups every three weeks at a cost of 86.00 plus a 20% tip. So I was spending $103.20 on every visit.
- You can’t use eye creams around your eyelashes
- No oil-based makeup removers or eyeliner near the extensions
- Some people are allergic to the adhesive glue
Magnetic Eyelashes with Eyeliner
I decided to try magnetic eyelashes with magnetic eyeliner this spring when I couldn’t get my eyelash extensions done during the lockdown. I can also tell you to use false eyelashes but I found applying magnetic eyelashes with magnetic eyeliner so much easier! These magnetic eyelashes do not clip together over your own lashes which were very important to me. I have read reviews about losing eyelashes with the double locking magnetic eyelashes and was very concerned about using the other ones.
Basically, if you can apply eyeliner, then you can use these magnetic eyelashes with magnetic eyeliner. The tiny magnets at the base of magnetic false eyelashes will stick to the liner and holding place all day.
This was a total game-changer for me and I couldn’t wait to try it out. After several days of wearing these magnetic lashes consistently, I’m happy to report everything I’ve learned and even a few tips that might be helpful if you decide to go that route.
When you order your magnetic eyelashes make sure it comes with a liquid magnetic liner. I purchased from companies with many false eyelash options. You can mix and match depending on your mood without needing to buy bulk batches.
The best part? Each lash set will last 30 wears so you got a lot of bang for your buck.
How to Apply Magnetic Eyelashes with Magnetic Liner
Apply your magnetic liner just like you usually would. The magnetic liner is going to apply a little thicker than your traditional liner but that’s okay because you want it to hold your lashes in place.
Wait about 30 seconds before applying a second coat and then repeat on your other eye.
Once your second eye’s eyeliner is dry (after about 30 seconds) you can apply your magnetic lash strips.
To apply my lashes, I use the tweezers that came with my eyelashes. I like the thick edge that won’t damage your magnetic lashes when you pick them up. If you don’t have them, don’t stress. Just use tweezers or even your fingers if you like.
Now, place the first magnet on the inner corner of your lash line and slowly lay the magnets down. You will feel the lashes pull and connect to your eyeliner but afterward will not be able to feel them throughout the day.
Pros
- They do not require glue to apply and will, therefore, not be messy as the false eyelashes that one has to apply glue.
- Magnetic lashes are less expensive than the lash extension brands.
- They can be used more than once.
- Magnetic lashes are more hygienic as they will not require the application of glue which may lead to infections.
Cons
- Magnetic lashes cannot be bent and you have to apply them as they are which makes them look awkward when they do not correspond with the shape of the eyes.
- The magnetic lashes often sit just that little bit further from the lash line, making it more obvious that they’re not natural.
Eyelash Serum
I am back to using eyelash serum to grow my eyelashes again after wearing eyelash extensions for the last 3 years. The extensions were heavy on my already fragile eyelashes and it was shocking to see how short they were after all the extensions came off in March while we were staying home.
Getting my eyelashes healthy after wearing eyelash extensions for four years is why I didn’t go back to extensions once the salons opened this summer. My eyelashes were half the length when I took my extensions off.
What is Eyelash growth serum?
The most important role each eyelash growth serum ought to play is enhancing lash growth. At the same time, it should nourish the lashes and the skin around the eyes. As a result, lashes grow longer, stronger, and much thicker. In order for a lash serum to really make a difference, it has to affect the growth cycle of the hair.
There are two groups of lash serums: prescription and OTC. As is often the case, the prescription serum is a more potent product compared to one you can buy straight from a retailer. Currently, there’s only one prescription treatment available: Latisse.
The average eyelash growth serum treatment lasts three months. The first results can be observed after 4 weeks of daily use. Lashes ought to be much stronger and lesser of them fall out.
I have been using Revitalash Eyelash Growth Serum since May and have noticed my lashes are longer. I apply the serum in the morning just like putting on eyeliner to my top and bottom lashes.
Pros
- No more fake eyelashes
- With the right cosmetic advice and application, the results will pay off. There are types of serums for all types of lashes and for different needs, you will definitely find the products that satisfy you!
- It works if you buy the best eyelash serum and apply it every day!
- Lash serum is the only product that will naturally make your eyelashes grow, without the need for long and uncomfortable lash extension appointments or using fake lashes.
- By using a lash serum, you will not only save your money but plenty of time, too.
Cons
- There are many over-the-counter lash serums on the market, and you should be looking at the reviews before you buy them.
- Eyelash serum only grows your lashes, it doesn’t thicken them. If you want thicker lashes this product won’t give you thicker lashes.
- You have to wait over 2-3 months to see the results.
Related Post: After 50: Eyelash Serum or Eyelash Extensions
Final Thoughts
I have given you the pros and cons of each eyelash enhancing options I have used the last 4 years. I loved my eyelash extensions but they are very expensive and do break fragile eyelashes. The magnetic eyelashes with magnetic eyeliner are stiff but they give me the volume of lashes that I love and they are so easy to use. I only use them for special occasions, work, and photoshoots.
Otherwise, I will keep using the eyelash serum and wearing mascara on a daily basis.
I really enjoy having beautiful eyelashes because they do make me feel better about myself.
What are your thoughts?
Thank you for stopping by today!
xxooxx
This post contains affiliate links that may earn income for Hello I’m 50ish.
My eyelashes have always been short and sparse. dermal.MD eyelash serum has helped them grow fuller and longer. You can also apply it to your eyebrows to get that thicker look🥰🥰
Thank you for sharing!
HI Robin!! Finally I’m getting your updated posts! So happy about that:) And- am loving this post so much- lashes (and brows) I find are so important, especially as time goes by. I could never properly apply falsies, but ever since I tried magneti ones, I’m in heaven! I use the same ones you do:) Have agreat weekend xx
Lucy,
I don’t know why my WordPress blog isn’t updating on my iPhone but I’m glad you can see my latest posts!
Yes, even though I don’t like the black magnetic eyeliner (too dark for my taste) I really like how simple it is to apply the eyelashes.
I can’t do the fake lashes even though they look better so I’m happy with the magnetic ones.
Have a wonderful weekend!
One other thing about using eyelash serum. When you stop using it your eyelashes return to how they were before you started it, so in order to maintain long lashes you have to keep using it. Thanks for letting us know that they don’t thicken lashes. Mine are long enough, I just need more of them.
That is correct Susan!
The serum works with your eyelash growth cycle and once you stop using the serum they return back to where you started.
I saw that happen to mine this summer and I use it daily now.
Hugs,
Robin
Thank you for the review, Robin! I know how addicting extensions are, so I ruled those out right away! I’ve been playing with false lashes during Covid, because there was extra time, but was leery to drop the cash for the magnetic falsies. After your review, I think it might be time to splash out! Now to find one with brown or colored liners… (Black is just too harsh for me now!) Glad you are having great results with the serum! I know there had been eye color change issues when it first came out, and I didn’t want to risk changing the color of my eyes! I’ve found that since I started using coconut oil to take off my makeup (including mascara), that my lashes seem to be thicker and more full. Have a great weekend! And bat those lovely lashes!
I use castor oil on my brows and lashes and it seems to work.
I have the magnetic lashes and need to wear them again – you just reminded me of how much I love them. Eyelashes make such a difference in our appearance. Great post Robin – loved hearing your experiences!
xo,
Kellyann
So tempted to try these magnetic lashes. It all depends on weather I will be sensitive to the magnetic eyeliner. Worth trying though xx
That looks very very good. I never tried it but I think time will come that I have to!
I loved reading this Robin. I only tried one brand of magnetic lashes and I couldn’t get them to work . My hypothesis was that for me my eyes work very curved and so they wouldn’t stay. But I’m sure it depends on the company also.
But I have been using Rodan & Fields serum lately and I love it. I used it years ago but stopped because of the price but after trying so many other options I’m back to it!!
Xoxo
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com