When you turn 40, there seems to be some secret little evil switch that turns on in our body. Once on, things begin to wrinkle up, sag, and drop off.
We don’t get asked if we want it on or when’s the best time to start it.
No, the body seems to decide for itself.
But, I have found that there is a way to weaken the switch’s power, to lessen its effects on our body.
But before getting to that, I have to gripe just a little bit.
One of the things this heartless little switch turned on in my body was the button to release various and random hairs in my eyebrows and eyelashes.
So one morning, I woke up with five fewer eyebrow hairs and eyelashes. No big deal, right?
But each day a few more dropped out and then a few more the next day. This kept happening until I looked one morning at my barely-there eyebrows.
And let’s not even discuss the eyelashes.
What makes it worse is I have Graves disease which affects my thyroid. And one of the “side effects” of this condition is thinning hair (including eyelashes and eyebrows) when my thyroid levels aren’t within range.
But, a visit to my doctor determined I was in range.
Now, some may be saying, that’s no big deal. You can just get some fake lashes and draw in some nice, thick eyebrows.
But who has time for that every day? I don’t.
I’m working from home and homeschooling two children and raising them on my own.
I didn’t have time every day to sit down with makeup, brushes, and tools to paint on my face.
And most mornings, I was so tired, I would probably end up putting the eyelashes on my eyebrows.
I can handle doing this on special occasions, but not daily when I’m just out with the kids or running errands.
So, I had to find a solution that was less time-consuming, used natural ingredients, and fit into my budget.
Naturally, I turned to Google and started researching natural remedies on how to grow long eyelashes and thick, luscious eyebrows.
I discovered there are specific ingredients that promote hair growth. Some of the main ones are castor oil, olive oil, and aloe vera.
Castor oil promotes growth of long eyelashes
Castor oil nourishes and stimulates the hair follicles, helping to promote lustrous and voluminous eyelashes. It’s also known to fight micro-organisms that block growth.
Not only does it support eyelash growth, it also helps to thicken eyebrows.
Olive oil adds volume
This well-known natural remedy for thicker hair growth is also very effective in growing longer eyelashes and thicker eyebrows.
It’s rich in vitamin E and oleic acid which add volume while nourishing your lashes and brows.
One other side benefit is olive oil helps keep the lashes dark for a thicker appearance.
Aloe vera moisturizes
Aloe contains several vitamins and nutrients that promote the growth of eyelashes. It keeps both your eyelashes and eyebrows moisturized which aids in retaining the hairs.
Using this information, I created a recipe for growing eyelashes and eyebrows which worked for me. One important note when using natural remedies: it works as long as you’re consistent in using it.
I’ve found if you stop for long periods of time, the growth also stops and eventually you’ll go back to where you began.
With this information in mind, here is my recipe to grow long eyelashes and thicker eyebrows:
1/2 tsp aloe vera gel
1 tsp castor oil
1/2 tsp olive oil
I mixed these ingredients in a small container with a lid, and I bought a lash and eyebrow wand to apply it.
Each night, after cleansing my face, I apply a generous amount to my eyebrows and lashes. I massage it in for better absorption and then sleep with it on through the night.
The next morning, I cleanse my face as usual and go on with my normal morning routine.
If you use fresh aloe vera gel, it’s best to mix just enough for one application so you have a fresh batch each time. However, I have placed it in the refrigerator overnight when I’ve mixed too much and it was fine for me the next evening.
Is a topical treatment enough?
One thing I’ve learned over time, it’s not just what we put on our faces that matters, it’s also what we feed our bodies that can create lasting results.
There are internal causes of hair loss (like thyroid problems) and these have to be addressed for any topical treatment to be effective. So be sure to rule out any medical causes of your hair loss by talking with your doctor before starting a natural remedy.
With that being said, there are foods we can eat to promote healthy hair growth, such as dark green leafy vegetables, beans, brown rice, and fruits containing vitamin C.
Also, foods rich in vitamin E help to encourage hair growth and eliminate dry and brittle lashes. Some great sources include almonds, kale, spinach, blueberries, and avocados.
Add to this an adequate amount of water each day and you’re on your way to longer, thicker lashes and brows.
Do the oils not irritate your eyes?