The Truth About Coconut Oil for Eyelash Growth: Does It Work?

Looking for longer, fuller eyelashes without turning to harsh chemicals? Coconut oil might just be the natural solution you’ve been searching for. This beloved oil has earned its spot in the beauty world thanks to its deep moisturizing properties and ability to nourish both skin and hair. From DIY hair masks to skincare treatments, coconut oil has become a go-to for many beauty enthusiasts seeking chemical-free alternatives. But recently, its supposed ability to promote eyelash growth has sparked a lot of buzz.

Beauty experts and influencers alike swear by coconut oil, claiming it can thicken and strengthen lashes while reducing breakage. But is this just another beauty myth, or can coconut oil truly encourage longer, fuller eyelashes?

In this article, we’ll dive into the science behind eyelash growth, explore the benefits of coconut oil, and gather expert opinions to determine if this natural remedy is as effective as it’s made out to be—or if it’s simply another overhyped trend.

Read More: 8 Easy Ways To Use Castor Oil For Growing Eyelashes

Does Coconut Oil Help Eyelashes Grow?

Coconut oil is often hailed as a miracle solution for longer, fuller lashes. While it doesn’t work quite as some might expect, it can still benefit your eyelashes.

Coconut oil doesn’t actually lengthen your lashes beyond their natural growth limit. Every lash has a predetermined maximum length it can reach, and no oil can push it further. However, what coconut oil does help with is ensuring your lashes reach their full potential.

Our lashes often start to thin and break before they hit their maximum length, and this is where coconut oil can make a difference. Studies show that while coconut oil doesn’t directly stimulate growth, it can prevent breakage and promote healthier lashes. Its conditioning and strengthening properties help keep your lashes from falling out prematurely. Additionally, coconut oil’s antibacterial qualities can protect against issues like blepharitis and styes, which can lead to lash loss.

So while coconut oil may not magically lengthen your lashes, it can certainly help them stay strong and healthy, allowing them to grow to their full potential.

How to Grow Eyelashes with Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is made from coconut milk and meat. Compared to many other oils, coconut and organic coconut oil have a denser, meatier feel. Instead of sprinkling and pouring it onto the skin, it is frequently scooped out of a pot and rubbed into the skin to distribute it evenly.

The oil offers vital elements required for hair nourishment and repair.

However, is coconut oil beneficial for eyelashes, and if so, how does it function? The research on the effect of coconut oil on hair thus far has only examined the hair on your head, but theoretically, the findings also apply to eyelash hair.

Read More: 10 Easy Hacks To Grow Thicker Eyelashes Naturally

Coconut Oil’s Benefits for Eyelashes

Coconut oil’s moisturizing, antimicrobial, and protective qualities have made it a fantastic beauty mainstay for skin and hair. It can enhance the health of your brows and lashes in the following ways:

Hydrates your Brows and Eyelashes:

Coconut oil’s lauric acid has restorative qualities that can seep into hair strands. Additionally, it is very moisturizing because it penetrates the hair shaft more effectively than any other oil. Slowing down moisture loss is another way coconut oil can help your hair stay hydrated.

Makes your Brows and Eyelashes Stronger:

From sun damage to harsh chemical products, your lashes and brows endure much stress. These delicate hairs require a great deal of protection.

Moisturizing your lashes and eyebrows can prevent breakage. Research shows that applying coconut oil to eyelashes both before and after washing can also reduce protein loss. Since protein makes up our hair follicles, getting enough protein is essential for hair development.

Keeps Brows and Lashes Free of Germs:

Due to its medium-chain fatty acids, coconut oil can shield eyelashes and eyebrows from dangerous microorganisms. These acids also contain antifungal and antibacterial qualities, protecting them from fungal and bacterial infections.

How to Use Coconut Oil for Eyelashes?

Coconut oil can be a powerful ally in your quest for healthier, fuller lashes. You can use it in different ways, whether directly applying virgin coconut oil or incorporating it into a homemade eyelash serum.

While many beauty stores offer eyelash serums containing ingredients like coconut, castor, or essential oils, these products can sometimes be pricey and not entirely natural. The benefit of commercial serums is that they often come with an applicator, making the process easy and mess-free. But if you’re looking for a more natural or affordable option, coconut oil alone can do wonders.

Shop Here: Virgin Coconut Oil 

Here are some tips to get the most out of coconut oil for your lashes while keeping things simple and effective:

• Apply Overnight: Coconut oil works best when left on overnight. After cleansing your face and applying your usual skincare products, gently apply coconut oil to your lashes before bed. Alternatively, you can apply it right before showering to avoid the oil mixing with excess water, which can cause brittleness.
• Use a Small Amount: A little goes a long way. Take a small amount of coconut oil with a cotton swab, skincare spoon, or even a disposable mascara wand. If your coconut oil is too thick, simply rub it between your fingers to melt it down.
• Gentle Application: Avoid applying too much pressure to your lashes. Apply the oil with gentle downward strokes with your cotton swab, mascara wand, or ring finger. You can also apply it as you would mascara, ensuring an even coating.
• Remove Waterproof Mascara: Coconut oil is excellent for removing makeup, especially waterproof mascara. To do so, generously apply coconut oil to a cotton pad and gently press it against your eye for 5-10 seconds. Afterward, wipe downward until all mascara is removed.
• Using Your Fingers: If you prefer to use your fingers, start by washing your hands thoroughly. Take a small amount of coconut oil with your index finger, rub it between both index fingers, and then gently massage the oil along your lash lines while keeping your eyes closed.

By incorporating coconut oil into your routine, you can nourish your lashes, prevent breakage, and help them look fuller and healthier. This simple, natural remedy can be a great addition to your beauty regimen!

 Read More: What Happens If You Keep Rubbing Your Eyes? 10 Possible Risks!

Shop Here: Eyelash Serum

Side Effects of Using Coconut Oil for Eyelashes

Unlike unpopular opinions, coconut oil doesn’t necessarily negatively impact the skin or cause any side effects when used to strengthen eyelash hair follicles and promote their easy and steady growth.

That being said, some people who use coconut oil on their eyelashes rarely experience possible side effects, including:

• You can momentarily lose your vision if the coconut oil enters your eyes.
• Some consumers discover that applying coconut oil-based skin care products causes outbreaks or exacerbates their acne.
• Like many other rich moisturizers or oils, coconut oil may cause milia, which are hard keratin plugs that can develop around the eyes.

More Tips And Precautions For Stronger Eyelashes

Maintaining long and healthy eyelashes can be more challenging than we realize. Often, we neglect their care, leading to brittle, weak lashes. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to improve their growth and strength.

Here are some essential tips and precautions for stronger, healthier eyelashes:

1. Eat a Balanced Diet
   A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and proteins can work wonders for your lashes. These nutrients nourish the hair follicles and help maintain strong, resilient lashes. Include foods like salmon, chia seeds, and nuts in your diet to promote lash health.
2. Always Remove Eye Makeup Before Bed
   Never go to bed with makeup on. Leaving mascara or eyeliner on overnight can weaken and damage your lashes, leading to breakage. Gently remove all eye makeup before sleep to allow your lashes to breathe and repair themselves.
3. Brush Your Lashes Regularly
   Use a clean mascara wand or eyelash brush to comb through your lashes daily. This simple action can help promote blood circulation to the follicles, which encourages lash growth and keeps them looking fuller.
4. Check for Dandruff on Your Eyelashes
   Dandruff can accumulate on your lashes, leading to irritation or lash loss. If you notice flakes, gently clean your eyelashes with a mild cleanser or coconut oil to remove the buildup and keep your lashes healthy.
5. Keep Your Lashes Hydrated
   Just like the skin, your lashes need hydration too. Regularly moisturizing your lashes with natural oils like coconut oil, castor oil, or vitamin E can help prevent dryness, breakage, and make them stronger over time.

By following these simple tips and precautions, you can support the growth of healthy, strong eyelashes. Consistency is key, so incorporate these habits into your daily routine for the best results.

Read More: 7 Ways To Heal Burns With Coconut Oil Easily

Comparing Other Oils and Products with Coconut Oil

When contrasting coconut oil with other eyelash care treatments, several advantages and factors should be considered. In this section, we’ll discuss castor oil, lash serum, and mascara and how they compare to coconut oil.

Castor Oil vs. Coconut Oil for Eyelashes:

The primary distinction between castor and coconut oils is their texture and nutritional makeup. Coconut oil is lighter and more straightforward, yet both oils work well for eyelash growth. However, castor oil is heavier and may be more challenging to extract.

Lash Serum vs. Coconut Oil:

Lash serums frequently include a combination of chemical compounds and nutrients to encourage lash growth. But without the danger of chemical exposure, coconut oil provides a safe, all-natural substitute that strengthens and nourishes lashes.

Coconut Oil vs. Mascara:

Coconut oil offers long-term advantages, whereas mascara is a cosmetic for short-term eyelash improvement. Frequent application of coconut oil can result in longer, thicker, and healthier natural lashes, reducing the need for intense mascara.

Considerations Before Using Coconut Oil

To check for allergic responses, perform a patch test before using coconut oil. Take care when using the oil to prevent direct contact with the eyes, and be aware of the possibility of eye discomfort.

Remember that results can vary when employing natural therapies and that patience is essential. It’s crucial to consider additional elements, such as the general state of your eyelashes and any skin or hair disorders that could impair growth.

Furthermore, although coconut oil is safe for most individuals, it should not be used by those with specific coconut allergies. Always use premium, organic virgin coconut oil to reduce the chance of irritation and optimize the possible advantages.

Read More: 7 Effective Ways to Use Coconut Oil for Faster Relief from Eczema 

Conclusion

For eyelashes, coconut oil provides deep hydration, strengthening, and breakage prevention, among other advantages. Its antibacterial qualities also help maintain a healthy lash line. There is little scientific proof that it directly promotes eyelash growth even though it nourishes and conditions lashes. Coconut oil does not follicularly extend or thicken lashes but can keep them from becoming brittle.

Is it worthwhile to use, then? Yes, if you want a natural lash conditioner; no, if you wish for noticeable development results.

Castor oil, which is very high in ricinoleic acid, eyelash serums containing peptides and biotin, or prescription medications like Latisse, are options for people who want to grow their eyelashes more quickly. Even if coconut oil doesn’t have the intended effects, it can still promote general lash health when combined with a healthy diet and appropriate lash care.

• Sep 2018
  Written by Somapika D
• Mar 2025
  Edited by Ankita