Peptides & Botanicals: Nature’s Real Lash Science
Researched & Written by: Dr. Liana Evans, Cosmetic Scientist (PhD)
Introduction
Lashes aren’t just beauty accessories. They’re delicate, expressive, and deeply tied to feminine identity. And yet, in a market flooded with lash serums that burn, darken the skin, or barely work at all, it can feel like true, natural lash growth is a myth. LashGrow was born from a single idea: that a woman shouldn’t have to trade safety for results.
Instead of a single synthetic compound or yet another gimmick, LashGrow is built on the science of bioactive peptides, time-tested botanicals, and clinical hydration agents. This white paper explores the research behind each key ingredient and explains why this unique blend supports natural lash growth—gently, effectively, and without compromise.
The Modern Lash Dilemma
False lashes, glue, lash extensions, lash lifts—all marketed as beauty-enhancing tools, but often responsible for lash thinning, breakage, and follicle damage. At the same time, mainstream lash serums have become dominated by prostaglandin analogs: synthetic hormones originally developed for glaucoma. These can work, yes, but often come with a cost:
- Eye irritation
- Skin discoloration
- Fat atrophy around the eyes
- Changes in iris color
Many women are left with two unappealing choices: harsh pharmaceutical options or overpriced, ineffective "natural" serums.
LashGrow offers a third path.
A New Approach: Stimulate, Nourish, Protect
LashGrow takes a multi-pathway approach:
- Stimulate: Bioactive peptides encourage growth at the follicle level
- Nourish: B-vitamins and botanical extracts improve lash density, structure, and resilience
- Protect: Hydrators like Sodium Hyaluronate and Aloe Vera lock in moisture and soothe the lash line
Instead of forcing unnatural growth, LashGrow supports the environment your lashes need to thrive.
The Ancient Ritual of Lash Beauty
Lash grooming and enhancement date back to Ancient Egypt, where kohl was used not just for beauty but protection. Cleopatra’s lashes were darkened and thickened with natural oils and powders. In the Victorian era, women brushed their lashes with vaseline or castor oil.
We’ve always wanted longer lashes. What’s changed is our relationship to science. Rather than relying on folklore alone, LashGrow combines ancient wisdom with modern, peer-reviewed evidence. The result? A ritual you can feel good about.
The LashGrow Ingredient Deep Dive
1. Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 is a lipopeptide specifically designed to improve the appearance of eyelashes by stimulating the expression of keratin genes at the follicular level. Keratin is a critical structural protein in lashes, and by encouraging its production, this peptide directly supports thicker, longer lashes. It works by binding to cell receptors in the follicle that trigger protein synthesis, increasing the lash hair's length and density from the root.
In vitro studies have demonstrated that Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17 can increase hair strand length by up to 25% within two weeks. Importantly, it does this without triggering the inflammatory responses often seen with synthetic hormone analogs, making it ideal for sensitive skin and eyes.
Reference: Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33(4):331–35.
2. Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1
This tripeptide is a hybrid compound composed of biotin (Vitamin B7) and matrikine peptides. It strengthens the connection between the dermal papilla (the base of the lash follicle) and the lash shaft. This reduces the likelihood of lash fallout due to friction, rubbing, or cosmetic use. Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 also promotes the production of anchoring proteins such as laminin and collagen IV, reinforcing the base from which the lash grows.
Clinical studies have shown that application of this peptide reduces lash shedding and enhances bulb adhesion. It also promotes longer retention of the lashes in the anagen (growth) phase, extending the visible life of your natural lashes.
Reference: J Cosmet Dermatol. 2009;8(2):150–158.
3. Clover Extract (Biochanin A)
Biochanin A, derived from red clover, is a potent isoflavone known for its ability to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase—the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is responsible for follicle miniaturization, which leads to thinner, weaker lash hairs and even premature loss.
By blocking this process, Clover Extract helps maintain lash thickness and density. It also delivers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, supporting a healthy follicular environment. In studies, combining Biochanin A with peptides resulted in a significant increase in hair density after 12 weeks.
Reference: Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2014;7:287–296.
4. Ginseng Root Extract
Used for centuries in Korean and Chinese medicine, ginseng is revered for its ability to boost microcirculation and energize the lash line. Its active compounds, ginsenosides, stimulate blood flow to the lash follicle, allowing essential nutrients and oxygen to reach the cells responsible for growth.
In a controlled study on mice, ginseng extract enhanced follicle size and increased the number of active follicles. It also demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, helping to prevent lash loss due to stress or skin irritation around the eye.
Reference: J Med Food. 2012;15(5):419–426.
5. Green Tea Extract (EGCG)
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the most active component of green tea, and it's particularly effective in combating oxidative stress—a key contributor to lash weakening and loss. EGCG is a polyphenol with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. It protects the follicle against free radical damage and supports dermal papilla cell growth.
In vitro studies show EGCG can stimulate human dermal papilla cells, which are responsible for hair growth regulation. Its soothing properties also reduce redness or irritation around the lash line, especially for users prone to inflammation or dryness.
Reference: Phytomedicine. 2007;14(7–8):551–555.
6. Sodium Hyaluronate
This low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid penetrates the skin barrier to hydrate and plump the delicate tissue around the lash base. Lash follicles, like follicles, require moisture to function optimally. Dehydrated follicles become fragile, leading to brittle, breakable lashes.
Sodium Hyaluronate draws moisture deep into the dermis and helps retain it, supporting stronger, more elastic lashes. In clinical trials, it increased skin hydration by more than 20% within two weeks of topical use, making it a cornerstone ingredient for healthy lash support.
Reference: J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2012;5(3):29–36.
7. Vitamin B Complex (B3, B5, B6, B7)
This synergistic blend of B vitamins serves multiple lash-enhancing roles. Niacinamide (B3) boosts microcirculation, delivering nutrients to the lash root. Panthenol (B5) helps thicken and moisturize lashes, improving their sheen and flexibility. Pyridoxine (B6) regulates protein metabolism, supporting keratin structure. Biotin (B7) is essential for keratin production—without it, lashes become brittle and sparse.
Biotin deficiencies are clinically linked to hair loss and weak, thinning strands. By replenishing these nutrients topically, LashGrow supports the structural integrity and vitality of each lash.
Reference: Skin Appendage Disord. 2017;3(3):166–170.
The Prostaglandin Problem
Pharmaceutical lash serums often rely on prostaglandin analogs. While effective for some, these hormone-based compounds are associated with:
- Red, itchy eyes
- Darkened eyelids
- Loss of fat around the eye socket (hollowed appearance)
- Changes in eye color (especially blue to brown)
LashGrow was deliberately formulated without these ingredients. Instead, we turned to gentle, research-backed alternatives that still deliver.
What Makes LashGrow Different
- 4 peptides selected for lash-specific follicle stimulation
- 8 botanical extracts, chosen for their antioxidant, circulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects
- 7 hydrators to soothe and protect the lash line
- 100% prostaglandin-free
- Safe for daily use, even with sensitive eyes or lash extensions
Conclusion
LashGrow isn’t just a lash serum. It’s a return to what works. A blend of real science, natural wisdom, and feminine care. It’s not about forcing growth; it’s about creating the ideal conditions for your lashes to thrive.
Grow what’s yours. Naturally. Safely. Powerfully.
*Disclaimer:
This document summarizes publicly available ingredient research and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or claim specific health outcomes for LashGrow as a finished product.
References & Resources
- Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33(4):331–35.
- J Cosmet Dermatol. 2009;8(2):150–158.
- Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2014;7:287–296.
- J Med Food. 2012;15(5):419–426.
- Phytomedicine. 2007;14(7–8):551–555.
- J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2012;5(3):29–36.
- Skin Appendage Disord. 2017;3(3):166–170.