Long, sweeping eyelashes are universally associated with youth and vitality. But beyond their aesthetic appeal, eyelashes serve a critical biological function: protecting the eye from debris and dust. While mascara and extensions offer temporary fixes, true lash health begins at the follicular level.

To understand how to achieve naturally longer and fuller lashes, we must first understand the biology of how they grow—and why, as we age, that growth slows down.

The Science of the Lash Cycle

Just like the hair on your scalp, your eyelashes go through a distinct three-phase growth cycle. Understanding these phases is key to identifying effective treatments.

  1. The Anagen Phase (Active Growth): This is the phase where the lash is actively growing. It typically lasts between 4 to 10 weeks. At any given time, only about 40% of your upper lashes are in this phase (1).
  2. The Catagen Phase (Transition): In this short phase (around 2 weeks), the hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the blood supply. The lash stops growing but isn’t ready to shed yet (1).
  3. The Telogen Phase (Resting/Shedding): The hair lies dormant. Eventually, the lash falls out over 4-9 months, and the cycle begins anew (1).

As we age, the Anagen phase shortens. The body produces less collagen and keratin, leading to lashes that are thinner, more brittle, and prone to breaking before they reach their maximum length.

The Building Blocks of Lash Growth

So, what actually makes lashes grow? It isn’t magic; it’s cellular biology. To extend the growth phase and strengthen the hair shaft, your follicles require specific “triggers” and building blocks.

1. Peptide Signaling

Peptides are chains of amino acids that act as messengers, telling your cells to perform specific functions. In lash care, specific peptides, such as Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 (found in WideLash™), are essential for stimulating the synthesis of collagen and laminin—the proteins responsible for anchoring the hair bulb.

2. Keratin Support

Lashes are comprised of over 90% keratin. When keratin production slows, lashes lose their structural integrity and elasticity. To counteract this, modern biotechnology utilizes plant-based alternatives, such as Fision® KeraVeg18, which mimics the natural amino acid ratios of human hair to restore strength and shine.

3. Root Stimulation

Sometimes, the hair follicle simply needs to be “woken up.” Organic extracts, specifically those derived from pea sprouts (Pisum Sativum), have been shown to stimulate specific signal molecules at the root, effectively reactivating hair growth and pushing follicles back into the Anagen (growth) phase.

The “One Ingredient” Myth

Many generic lash serums rely on a single active ingredient—usually a basic moisturizer or a low-concentration peptide. While this might provide minor hydration, it fails to address the complex, multi-stage nature of lash growth.

At Agelyss, we believe in Total Transparency and maximum potency. We don’t rely on a single ingredient to do the heavy lifting. Instead, we utilize a synergistic blend of 5 clinically-proven trademarked ingredients to target every stage of the lash cycle.

The Agelyss Solution: Science-Backed Growth

Agelyss® Lash & Brow Enhancer was formulated to bridge the gap between gentle care and clinical results. By combining biotechnology with natural extracts, we address the three main causes of lash thinning: breakage, slow growth, and lack of hydration.

Here is the science behind our Lash & Brow Enhancer (2):

  • Lengthening with WideLash™: This patented ingredient focuses on the anchorage of the hair. By stimulating collagen synthesis, it ensures lashes stay in the follicle longer, allowing them to grow visibly longer and thicker.
  • Reactivation with AnaGain™: Derived from organic pea sprouts, AnaGain™ is designed to reactivate hair growth at the root, reviving brittle lashes and restoring density.
  • Structural Repair with Fision® KeraVeg18: This vegetable-based keratin mimics the proteins responsible for elasticity. It fortifies the lash structure to help prevent premature breakage.
  • Deep Hydration with Pentavitin®: Dry lashes break easily. Pentavitin® creates a moisture reservoir that lasts for 72 hours, strengthening the skin barrier function around the follicle.
  • Protection with Regu®-Fade: A nature-identical trans-resveratrol and powerful antioxidant that protects the delicate lash area and visibly enhances the appearance of brows and lashes.

The Bottom Line

Lash growth is a biological process that requires the right nutrients, signals, and hydration. By choosing a formula grounded in clinical research rather than marketing trends, you can effectively extend your natural growth cycle and enjoy fuller and longer lashes.

Read to experience beauty by science? Shop Agelyss Lash & Brow Enhancer