Many lash serums on the market promise dramatic growth—but not all achieve this in the same way.
Some rely on a class of ingredients known as prostaglandin analogues. While effective, these ingredients come with important considerations—especially for those with sensitive or ageing eyes.
Understanding how they work—and the potential side effects—can help you make a more informed decision.
How Prostaglandins Became Linked to Lash Growth
Eyelash serums first gained popularity after patients using prescription treatments for glaucoma noticed an unexpected side effect: their lashes became longer, thicker, and darker.
The ingredient responsible for this effect was bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analogue.
This discovery quickly made its way into the cosmetics industry, where similar compounds began to be used in lash serums marketed for growth.
What Are Prostaglandin Analogues?
Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances involved in various processes in the body.
In lash serums, prostaglandin analogues work by:
- Extending the growth phase of the lash cycle
- Increasing the size of the hair follicle
This can lead to noticeable lash growth—but it’s important to understand that these are biologically active compounds, not simply conditioning ingredients.
Potential Side Effects to Be Aware Of
While not everyone will experience side effects, prostaglandin-based formulas have been associated with:
- Eye irritation or sensitivity
- Redness around the eye area
- Darkening of the skin on the eyelids
- Changes in eye colour (particularly with prescription-strength products)
- Periorbital fat loss, which can contribute to a more hollowed appearance around the eyes
According to guidance from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO), prostaglandin-based treatments can be associated with a range of ocular and periocular side effects.
For those already experiencing sensitivity, dryness, or hormonal changes, these effects may be more noticeable.
👉 If you’re experiencing dryness or irritation, you may find this helpful:
What Causes Dry Eye—and How It Relates to Menopause
Regulation in Australia
In Australia, prostaglandins with a therapeutic effect—such as bimatoprost—are classified as prescription-only medicines.
This means they are not permitted in Australian-made, over-the-counter cosmetic lash serums without regulatory approval.
However, this does not necessarily prevent imported lash serums from containing prostaglandin analogues, depending on how they are formulated and classified in their country of origin.
Because of this, ingredient transparency becomes especially important when choosing a lash serum.
If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking the label for ingredients such as:
- Bimatoprost
- Latanoprost
- Tafluprost
- Travoprost
- Isopropyl Cloprostenate
- Dechloro Dihydroxy Difluoro Ethylcloprostenolamide
If an ingredient isn’t clearly explained, it’s always reasonable to seek further clarification before use.
A Different Approach to Lash Care
Not all lash serums rely on prostaglandins.
Many modern formulations focus instead on supporting the natural condition of the lashes, rather than altering their growth cycle aggressively.
This includes:
- Conditioning the lashes to reduce breakage
- Supporting strength and flexibility
- Helping lashes appear fuller over time
Peptide-based formulas, in particular, are designed to work with the natural biology of the lash, rather than overriding it.
erthlash™ is formulated without prostaglandins.
Instead, it uses a peptide-based approach to support:
- Stronger, healthier-looking lashes
- Improved lash condition over time
- A gentle experience for sensitive eyes
This makes it particularly suited to women experiencing changes in lash health due to age, sensitivity, or hormonal shifts.
Prostaglandin-based lash serums can deliver noticeable results—but they’re not the only option.
For many women, especially those with sensitive or ageing eyes, a gentler approach that focuses on long-term lash health may be a better fit.
Understanding the difference allows you to choose what’s right for you.
If you’re looking for a prostaglandin-free option designed with sensitive, ageing eyes in mind, you can explore erthlash™ lash serum here.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.