Many people dream of having longer, fuller, and healthier eyelashes. While the market is flooded with expensive commercial serums, a growing number of beauty enthusiasts are turning to a more natural and cost-effective alternative: making their own. Creating a DIY eyelash serum allows you to control exactly what ingredients you’re putting near your sensitive eye area, avoiding harsh chemicals and potential irritants. This guide is designed for beginners and will provide simple, clear instructions on how to make eyelash serum using just a few nourishing, natural ingredients, putting you on the path to the beautiful lashes you desire.

Long, thick eyelashes are often seen as a symbol of beauty and elegance, but achieving them doesn’t have to mean relying on expensive beauty products or risking irritation from synthetic formulas. By creating your own eyelash serum, you can nourish your lashes naturally while tailoring the recipe to suit your specific needs. With a few simple ingredients and some quick preparation, you’ll have a custom-made serum that supports healthy lash growth and strength. Plus, the added bonus of knowing exactly what ingredients are going onto your delicate eye area.
Benefits of Using a DIY Eyelash Serum
While there are numerous eyelash serums on the market, many can be expensive and may contain potentially harmful chemicals. By making your own serum at home, you have complete control over the ingredients and can customize it to suit your preferences and needs. Additionally, using natural oils and vitamins can provide nourishment and support for your lashes without harsh chemicals or preservatives.
Making your own eyelash serum is also a cost-effective option compared to purchasing pre-made products. Most DIY recipes call for simple and affordable ingredients that you may already have in your pantry or bathroom cabinet
7 Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Eyelash Serum
Step 1: Gather Your Natural Ingredients
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few simple items. The foundation of most homemade eyelash serums is a blend of nourishing carrier oils. For this recipe, you will need high-quality, cold-pressed castor oil, sweet almond oil, and a source of vitamin E, such as vitamin E oil or a liquid capsule. For your tools, you will need a small, clean bowl for mixing, a small funnel, and an empty, sterilized mascara tube with a wand applicator. You can easily purchase new, empty mascara tubes online, which is the most hygienic option for storing and applying your serum.

Step 2: Sterilize Your Container
This is a critical step for safety. Because you will be applying the serum so close to your eyes, you must ensure your container and tools are completely clean to prevent bacterial growth and potential eye infections. If you have purchased a new, sterile mascara tube, you can skip this step. If you are reusing an old mascara tube, you must clean it thoroughly. Remove the stopper, fill the tube with warm, soapy water, and use the wand to scrub the inside. Rinse it completely and then sanitize it by soaking the tube, stopper, and wand in rubbing alcohol for several minutes.
Step 3: Measure and Combine Your Carrier Oils
Now you can start mixing your serum. A great base recipe involves combining equal parts of your chosen oils. Using your small mixing bowl, carefully measure out one teaspoon of castor oil and one teaspoon of sweet almond oil. Castor oil is the star ingredient, celebrated for its richness in ricinoleic acid, which is believed to nourish hair follicles and promote healthier growth. Sweet almond oil is a lighter oil, rich in fatty acids and vitamins, that helps to condition and strengthen the lashes without being too heavy, creating a balanced and effective blend.
Step 4: Add Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps to nourish and protect your lashes while also acting as a natural preservative to extend the shelf life of your homemade serum. If you have vitamin E oil in a bottle, add two to three drops to your mixture. If you are using vitamin E softgel capsules, carefully pierce one capsule with a clean pin and squeeze the contents directly into the bowl with your other oils. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly to ensure the vitamin E is fully incorporated into the carrier oils.
Step 5: Transfer the Serum
Once your oils are thoroughly mixed, it’s time to transfer the serum into its final container. This can be a tricky step, so work slowly to avoid spills. Place the small funnel into the opening of your clean, empty mascara tube. Carefully and slowly pour the oil mixture from the bowl through the funnel and into the tube. Be careful not to overfill it; leave a small amount of space at the top to accommodate the wand and stopper. Once the tube is filled, press the plastic stopper firmly back into the opening.

Step 6: Mix the Serum
With the stopper and wand in place, you can give the serum a final mix. Screw the cap on tightly and shake the tube gently for about 30 seconds. This ensures all the oils are perfectly blended together right before your first use. Before applying the serum to your lashes, it is absolutely essential to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the serum to a discreet area of your skin, like your inner wrist or behind your ear, and wait 24 hours to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction to any of the oils.
Step 7: Apply the Serum
To apply your homemade serum, start with a completely clean face, free of any makeup. Dip the clean mascara wand into your serum and wipe off any excess on the rim of the tube; a little goes a long way. Carefully apply a thin layer of the serum to your upper lash line, from the root to the tip, as if you were applying mascara. You can also apply a small amount to your lower lashes if you wish. It is best to do this at night before bed to allow the oils to work overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Often Should I Apply DIY Eyelash Serum?
For best results, you should apply your homemade eyelash serum once daily, preferably at night. Applying it before bed allows the nourishing oils to be fully absorbed without being disturbed by makeup or environmental factors. Consistency is key, so try to make it a regular part of your nightly skincare routine.

Is It Safe to Put Castor Oil on My Eyelashes?
Yes, for most people, it is safe to use high-quality, pure castor oil on their eyelashes. It has been a popular home remedy for hair health for generations. However, it is a thick oil, and it’s crucial to use only a small amount to prevent it from getting into your eyes, which can cause irritation and blurry vision. Always perform a patch test on your skin first to check for any allergic reaction.
How Long Does It Take to See Results from Homemade Eyelash Serum?
Results can vary greatly from person to person, as they depend on your individual hair growth cycle. With consistent nightly use, many people begin to notice that their lashes feel more conditioned and appear healthier within a few weeks. More noticeable changes in length and thickness may take two to three months of dedicated application. Patience and consistency are essential.
How Should I Store My DIY Eyelash Serum?
You should store your homemade serum in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, as light and heat can cause the natural oils to break down and go rancid more quickly. A medicine cabinet or a drawer is a perfect spot. A properly stored, all-natural serum should stay fresh for about three to six months.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to My Eyelash Serum?
Yes, you can customize your serum with other beneficial oils. Some popular additions include:

- Coconut Oil: Known for its moisturizing properties that can help prevent lash breakage.
- Lavender Essential Oil: One or two drops can be added for its soothing scent, but be extremely careful as essential oils are very potent and can cause irritation if they get in your eye. Always dilute them properly.
Conclusion
Creating your own eyelash serum is an empowering, simple, and natural approach to lash care. By combining the nourishing properties of castor oil, almond oil, and vitamin E, you can craft a personalized product free from synthetic chemicals. The process is as simple as gathering your oils, mixing them in a clean container, and applying the serum nightly with a mascara wand. Remember that consistency and patience are your best friends on this journey. Now that you have a clear understanding of how to make eyelash serum, you can start creating your own natural blend for healthier, more beautiful lashes.
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.