Losing lashes and eyebrows is a common side effect of chemo, and the regrowth period can be painfully slow! The team at #OurTribe got together to compile their best tips and products to help you through this time.
During chemo, tribe member Jessica used ice packs to brows and lashes, like tiny cold caps for your face. The use of cold closes (or “vasodilates” if you’re feeling fancy) the blood supply where it’s applied, and this prevents the chemo from penetrating these regions. For those who have already lost lashes, eye drops are a must have in your purse as your eyes are more likely to become irritated. If irritation persists or eyes become red, speak to your oncology nurse about a prescription drop. Paige Woodward, NP, likes Systane or Refresh Drops.
For others, a lack of eyelashes can cause constant eye tearing. Since you’ll need to carry tissues with you anyways, why not be eco-friendly with these organic cotton cuties.
Several tribe members used castor oil at the base of their lashes to promote growth. Castor oil contains a high percent of Ricinoleic acid which penetrate the pores of skin and hair follicles and is essential in hair growth. It is also antibacterial, extremely moisturizing and has anti-acne abilities! Castor oil’s main downside is it’s gloppy consistency, and as tribe member Emma puts it, “let’s just say it’s definitely only a night time ritual!” To make the process less messy, BaeBody’s Castor oil serum comes with teeny tiny lash line sized brushes. It can be used on brows as well.
While you’re waiting for the Castor oil treatment to kick in, Cherry Blooms will give you the look of salon lash extensions that are easy to apply at home.
It adds microfibers to your existing lashes, and luckily it’s waterproof in case you fall into the “eyes water all the time” category.
It adds microfibers to your existing lashes, and luckily it’s waterproof in case you fall into the “eyes water all the time” category.
Skin Research Laboratories Neulash and Neubrow are favorites of tribe member Lori. According to Lori, even before chemo her eyebrows were lacking, but since using Neubrow, she no longer “draws” her eyebrows on before leaving the house!
One downside, she noticed when not using the product, her lashes and brows returned to their prior, thinner state.
One downside, she noticed when not using the product, her lashes and brows returned to their prior, thinner state.
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The priciest, but perhaps most lauded in the Tribe, is Rodan + Field’s Enhancements lash boost. in about 8 weeks, This nightly eyelash-conditioning serum features a unique proprietary formula thickens and lengthens stubbly post chemo lashes.
If all the products in the world still don’t stimulate your brows, Microblading is a more permanent solution. Check out our blog post for more info.
Do you have any favorite products or tips to help bring back your eybrows and lashes? If so comment below, we’d love to learn from you!