Lash Sensational Boosting Eyelash Serum
Lash Sensational Boosting Eyelash Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A conditioning eyelash serum infused with Arginine and Pro-Vitamin B5 to fortify, strengthen, and nourish lashes for a fuller, thicker, and healthier appearance in as little as 4 weeks. Prostaglandin-free and gentle enough for daily use, with a soft cotton brush applicator for precise root-to-tip coverage.
Fortifies & Strengthens Lashes
Conditioning complex with Arginine and Pro-Vitamin B5 reinforces each lash fiber from root to tip, reducing breakage and fallout during makeup removal.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFortifies & Strengthens Lashes
Conditioning complex with Arginine and Pro-Vitamin B5 reinforces each lash fiber from root to tip, reducing breakage and fallout during makeup removal.
Prostaglandin-Free Formula
Unlike many premium lash serums, this formula uses gentle conditioning ingredients instead of prostaglandin analogs, minimizing risk of irritation and side effects.
Visibly Fuller Lashes in 4 Weeks
Clinically studied on 32 participants over 8 weeks showing 90% overall lash improvement when used consistently twice daily.
Soft Cotton Brush Applicator
Unique cotton-tip wand delivers a nourishing, even coat from root to tip while remaining gentle on the delicate lash line area.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Alcohol Denat. as the second ingredient and Phenoxyethanol as a preservative. While no retinoids or prostaglandins are present, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to the alcohol content near the eye area.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 21, Polysorbate 80, Sorbitan Oleate, and Octyldodecanol which can feed Malassezia yeast. However, since this is applied to lashes and not skin, the risk is minimal for most users.
Safe to use with contact lenses. No need to remove contacts before application. No reported irritation from contact lens users in reviews.
Free from prostaglandin analogs (like Isopropyl Cloprostenate or Bimatoprost), which are linked to side effects such as iris darkening, periorbital fat loss, and eyelid pigmentation.
Free from common allergens, fragrances, parabens, and sulfates. Suitable for sensitive eyes. Patch test recommended for very reactive individuals.
Alcohol Denat. is the second ingredient and helps the serum dry quickly, but may cause dryness with prolonged use. This also contributes to the fast-drying, non-sticky finish.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPanthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)Proven
A well-researched hair-conditioning vitamin that penetrates the lash shaft, improving moisture retention, elasticity, and overall lash flexibility. Acts as a humectant and emollient to keep lashes supple.
- Function: Moisturizes, conditions, and strengthens lash fibers from within
- Evidence: Widely used in hair care for decades with strong clinical support for improving hair thickness and reducing breakage
- Benefit: Lashes become softer, shinier, and more resistant to snapping during makeup removal
ArginineProven
An essential amino acid that plays a key role in keratin production, the primary structural protein of hair and lashes. Helps strengthen the lash structure at a cellular level.
- Function: Supports keratin synthesis and improves lash integrity
- Evidence: Research shows arginine strengthens hair fibers and reduces breakage when applied topically
- Benefit: Lashes grow stronger and are less prone to falling out during daily wear
MadecassosidePromising
A potent compound derived from Centella Asiatica (Cica), known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Helps protect the delicate lash follicles and promotes a healthy growth environment.
- Source: Extracted from Centella Asiatica, a staple in Asian skincare
- Function: Calms inflammation around the lash line and supports follicle health
- Benefit: Creates optimal conditions for lash growth by reducing irritation and oxidative stress
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid with a smaller molecular size, allowing it to penetrate more deeply. Provides intense hydration to lash fibers, preventing brittleness and dryness.
- Function: Deep hydration for lash fibers and the surrounding skin
- Evidence: Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, keeping lashes plump and moisturized
- Benefit: Prevents dry, brittle lashes that are prone to breakage
Serine & Glutamic AcidSupporting
Two amino acids that work alongside Arginine to support the natural protein structure of lashes. Serine is a key component of hair keratin, while Glutamic Acid strengthens the lash cortex.
- Function: Building blocks for lash protein synthesis and structural repair
- Benefit: Supports thicker, denser lash growth over time with consistent use
GlycerinProven
A highly effective humectant that draws moisture to lash fibers. Works synergistically with Sodium Hyaluronate to maintain optimal hydration levels and prevent lash brittleness.
- Function: Humectant and moisturizer for lashes and surrounding skin
- Evidence: One of the most well-studied moisturizing ingredients in cosmetics
21 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Alcohol Denat., Glycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Pentylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Panthenol, Polysorbate 21, Madecassoside, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Octyldodecanol, Isohexadecane, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arginine, Serine, Citric Acid, Glutamic Acid, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Hydroxide, Sorbitan Oleate, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, dry lashes before any other eye products. In the morning, allow the serum to fully dry before applying mascara. Use twice daily for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with Clean Eyes
Ensure your eye area is completely clean and free of all makeup, oils, and residue. Pat dry gently with a clean towel.
Apply from Root to Tip
Using the soft cotton brush applicator, sweep a thin layer of serum along the lash line from root to tip. Coat both upper and lower lashes evenly.
Allow to Dry Completely
Wait 30–60 seconds for the serum to dry fully before applying any other eye products or mascara. Do not rub or touch lashes while drying.
Repeat Twice Daily
Apply once in the morning (before mascara) and once at night (before bed) for optimal results. Consistency is key — use daily for at least 4 weeks.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want thicker, fuller-looking lashes without prostaglandins
- Your lashes are thin, sparse, or prone to falling out
- You want an affordable alternative to premium lash serums ($60+)
- You wear contact lenses and need a gentle formula
- You want to condition and prime lashes before mascara
- You prefer a fragrance-free, paraben-free formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You want dramatic lash length growth (prostaglandin serums are more effective for length)
- You have fungal acne on or near the eye area
- You are sensitive to alcohol-based formulations
- You want a serum you can also use on eyebrows (not officially recommended)
- You need a larger bottle size for long-term daily use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight formula works perfectly on normal skin without any heaviness or residue around the lash line.
Oil-free, fast-drying formula with Alcohol Denat. ensures no added greasiness. Great for oily lids.
Contains Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate for hydration, but the Alcohol Denat. content may feel slightly drying on very dry lash lines. Follow with an eye cream if needed.
Fragrance-free and prostaglandin-free, which is ideal. However, Alcohol Denat. may irritate very sensitive eyes. Patch test recommended.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and oil-free formula. Applied to lashes only, so minimal risk of clogging pores on surrounding skin.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEConditioning & Softening
Lashes begin to feel softer, more supple, and better conditioned. Less fallout noticed during makeup removal. The serum acts as an effective lash primer under mascara.
60% noticed softer lashesVisible Thickness & Fullness
Lashes appear noticeably thicker, darker, and more defined. Small new lash hairs may become visible as existing lashes are strengthened and protected from breakage.
75% saw thicker lashesFull Conditioning Results
Maximum conditioning benefits achieved. Lashes look visibly fuller, shinier, and healthier overall. Clinical study showed 90% overall lash improvement at 8 weeks.
90% overall improvement (clinical study)Maintained Health & Strength
Continued daily use maintains results. Lashes stay conditioned with noticeably reduced fallout. Some users report being able to reduce to once-daily application after initial 8 weeks.
Consistent use recommendedRatings by platform
46K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable compared to premium lash serums ($10–13 vs. $50–70+)
- Prostaglandin-free — no risk of iris color change or periorbital fat loss
- Noticeable lash thickness and fullness within 4 weeks for most users
- Safe for contact lens wearers with no reported irritation
- Works well as a lash primer under mascara for added volume
- Reduces lash shedding and fallout during makeup removal
- Clean formula: free from parabens, fragrances, silicones, and sulfates
- Widely available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers
Criticized
- Very small bottle (0.18 fl oz / 5.3 ml) runs out in 4–6 weeks with twice-daily use
- Results are more conditioning than growth — less dramatic than prostaglandin serums
- Cotton brush applicator can be tricky and dispense too much product
- High Alcohol Denat. content may be drying for some users
- Not officially recommended for eyebrow use
- May cause slight clumping if too much product is applied before mascara
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar conditioning approach with peptides and biotin. Also prostaglandin-free and works on both lashes and brows. Slightly less refined formula but excellent value for the price.
Peptide-based formula with 11 active ingredients targeting lash density and length. Also prostaglandin-free. Slightly higher price but larger bottle and dual lash/brow usage. No alcohol in formula.
Sister brand formula with Hyaluronic Acid and castor oil. More moisturizing approach but some users report less visible results. Slightly larger bottle at 0.05 fl oz more.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to prevent the formula from drying out.
Slim mascara-style tube with a soft cotton brush applicator for precise lash-line application.
Yes — 5.3 ml is well under the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in any travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The formula does not contain prostaglandins, retinoids, or salicylic acid — all ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. However, Alcohol Denat. is the second ingredient, and Phenoxyethanol is present as a preservative. While the product is applied topically to lashes in small amounts, it is always best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any new cosmetic product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this serum is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 21, Polysorbate 80, Sorbitan Oleate, and Octyldodecanol. However, since the product is applied directly to the lashes rather than the skin surface, the practical risk of triggering fungal acne is quite low for most users. If you have active fungal acne on your eyelids, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative.
Yes. Since this serum is applied specifically to the lashes and not to facial skin, it does not interact with other skincare actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs that you apply to your face. Simply apply the lash serum first, allow it to dry completely, and then proceed with the rest of your skincare routine. Avoid getting strong actives directly on the lash line.
This serum works well for all skin types. It is particularly well-suited for oily skin due to its oil-free, fast-drying formula. Those with dry or sensitive skin may want to follow up with an eye cream, as the Alcohol Denat. content could feel slightly drying. The fragrance-free, prostaglandin-free formula makes it a solid choice for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Most users report softer, more conditioned lashes within 1–2 weeks. Visible thickness and fullness improvements typically appear at 3–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Maximum results are seen at 8 weeks, with Maybelline's clinical study showing 90% overall lash improvement in 32 participants. This serum excels at conditioning and thickening rather than dramatic length growth.
Apply this serum to clean, dry lashes as the first step in your eye care routine. In the morning: cleanse, apply lash serum, wait for it to dry, then apply your eye cream, skincare, and mascara. At night: remove all makeup, cleanse, apply lash serum, then proceed with your evening skincare. The serum should always be applied to bare, clean lashes.
The comedogenic rating is 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. The formula is oil-free and lightweight. Since it is designed for application on lashes rather than skin, the risk of causing breakouts is minimal. If you have extremely acne-prone skin around the eye area, use a light hand and avoid getting excess product on the surrounding skin.
The recommended period after opening (PAO) is 6 months. However, given the small 5.3 ml / 0.18 fl oz bottle size, most users will finish the product within 4–6 weeks when using it twice daily as directed. To maintain product integrity, always close the cap tightly after use and store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Verdict: The Maybelline Lash Sensational Boosting Eyelash Serum is the best budget-friendly lash serum on the market for those who want healthier, thicker-looking lashes without the risks associated with prostaglandin-based formulas. At $10–13, it delivers impressive conditioning results — softer, fuller, and stronger lashes in 4 weeks — backed by clinical data and tens of thousands of positive reviews. It won't give you the dramatic length growth of a $68 GrandeLASH or prescription Latisse, but for everyday lash health and fortification, it punches well above its price point. Ideal for lash serum beginners, contact lens wearers, and anyone who values a clean, gentle formula at a drugstore price.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Emulsion Stabilising, Stabilising
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|