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9 ways to get longer eyelashes without mascara
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While you may use mascara as a way to make your lashes appear longer and fuller, here are some natural ways to get longer lashes. - photo by Melinda Fox
While you may use mascara as a way to make your lashes appear longer and fuller, over time it can actually have the opposite effect. Most mascaras found on drugstore shelves contain aluminum powder, parabens and formaldehyde which can damage your delicate lashes (and cause more serious health problems).

However, pledging to avoid these eyelash poisons doesn't mean your days of beautiful eyelashes are over. There are natural methods to improve the look of your lashes. Here are nine ways you can naturally get longer eyelashes:

Use petroleum jelly

Dabbing vaseline on your eyelashes has multiple benefits. First of all, it immediately improves the appearance and luster of your eyelashes. Also, over time, the moisturizing effects of vaseline will stimulate lash growth and improve your overall eyelash health.

Avoid falsies

While false eyelashes add all the length and thickness you could want, they have a negative effect on your real lashes. Their presence restricts eyelash growth and removing them can pull out your natural eyelashes.

Eat healthy foods

What you eat affects your body and that includes your eyelashes. Foods high in iron (such as spinach and beans) as well as food high in folic acid (like milk, whole grains and legumes) are specifically beneficial to your eyelashes. Also, omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy lashes. Improving your lash length might be as easy as improving your diet.

Comb your eyelashes

Over time, debris builds up on your lashes. Combing your eyelashes releases this buildup and separates them so they appear thicker.

Apply coconut oil

You can use coconut oil to stimulate eyelash growth in a few different ways. Most simply, you can melt it in the microwave (be careful not to let it get too hot) and use a clean mascara wand to apply it to your lashes. Or you can mix coconut oil with avocado and castor oil to make a mask you can leave on your lashes while you sleep.

Massage eyelids

Eyelid massages increase blood flow and can stimulate your hair follicles and increase lash growth. However, be careful: rubbing your eyes too harshly can damage your eyes and increase wrinkles.

Use olive oil

Olive oil is a natural healing balm that is also a powerful hydrator for your lashes. Giving your eyelashes the moisture they need helps them grow thicker and fuller. Also, olive oil is a great way to remove mascara at the end of the day..

Avoid eyelash curlers

Take it easy with that eyelash curler. You don't have to remove curling from your routine completely but, exercise cautious. Your eyelashes are delicate. Handling them harshly like pressing hard for a long period of time or moving the curler while your lashes are clamped inside can cause them harm.

Take biotin supplements

Many people already know that biotin is great for growing long, healthy hair. However, you may not know that it also promotes long, healthy lashes. Invest in some biotin supplements to help improve the quality of your lashes.
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