Olive oil may have some benefits that could potentially contribute to healthier and perhaps longer-looking eyelashes, but it doesn't actually cause them to grow in the sense of making them grow longer from the root. Here's why:
- Moisturizing and Conditioning: Olive oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins such as vitamin E, which have emollient properties. When applied to the eyelashes, it can help moisturize and condition them. This is beneficial because it prevents the lashes from becoming dry and brittle, which in turn reduces the likelihood of breakage. By keeping the lashes intact and preventing them from snapping off, they may appear longer over time.
- Nourishing the Follicles: The nutrients in olive oil can penetrate the hair follicles at the base of the eyelashes. This nourishment can promote a healthy environment for the lashes, which is conducive to their overall growth and strength. A well-nourished lash follicle is better able to support the growth and maintenance of a healthy lash.
- Improving Lash Appearance: In addition to its conditioning effects, olive oil can make the eyelashes look shinier and more lustrous. This enhanced appearance can create the illusion of fuller and healthier lashes, which might give the impression that they have grown.
To use olive oil for eyelashes, it's important to do so gently. Dip a clean mascara wand or cotton swab into a small amount of pure, extra-virgin olive oil and carefully apply it to the base and length of the lashes before going to bed. Be careful to avoid getting the oil in your eyes, as it may cause irritation. Then, wash it off in the morning with a gentle cleanser.
