“Minoxidil should never be used on eyelashes”: a doctor warns about this viral trend to lengthen them
On social networks, a new beauty practice is the talk of 2026. Content creators are applying a well-known hair treatment directly to the lash line to accelerate growth. However, specialists are sounding the alarm about this misuse, which could put your eye health at risk.
When ghost lashes go overboard
In recent years, minimalist beauty has profoundly changed eye rituals. Extensions have been abandoned in favor of a more natural look, and the “ghost lashes” phenomenon on TikTok – bangs of lashes left bare, without mascara – has propelled growth serums to the rank of must-have skincare products.
However, the quest for the perfect look is taking some Internet users further than the products designed for this purpose. Tutorials now show how to apply minoxidil, the famous hair loss treatment, directly to the lash line to stimulate growth.
The reasoning seems simple: if this drug boosts hair follicles on the scalp, why shouldn’t it have the same effect on the eye bangs? As a result, the videos are multiplying and the number of people tempted by this trick is rapidly increasing.
Dr Julian Prosia takes the floor
Faced with this growing trend, the American optometrist Prof. Dr. Julian Prosia posted a video on Instagram to set the record straight. According to him, minoxidil should never be applied near the eyes.
The doctor also points out that the product leaflet explicitly states that it must not come into contact with mucous membranes, particularly those of the mouth and eyes.
“Even though minoxidil promotes hair growth, it should never be used on eyelashes.”
An ingredient that irritates, a contour that suffers
Dr. Prosia points in particular to the presence of propylene glycol in many minoxidil formulations. This ingredient, used as a solvent, can cause severe irritation on contact with the ocular surface or eyelids.
The potential side effects are far from trivial: redness, stinging, dryness and burning. What’s more, the eye contour is one of the most fragile areas of the face, amplifying the risks.
- Minoxidil is a drug designed to treat certain types of alopecia.
- Its instructions prohibit contact with mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth.
- The propylene glycol in these formulas can irritate the ocular surface.
- Possible symptoms include redness, tingling, dryness and burning.
- Its use on eyelashes has not been foreseen or tested by the manufacturers.
The eye area does not have the same resistance as the scalp. As a result, even a small amount of unsuitable product can trigger an unpleasant, even long-lasting reaction.
Why is this detour so appealing?
Minoxidil is known to be effective on certain types of alopecia, which first prompted content creators to experiment with it on eyebrows, then eyelashes. The logic seemed coherent, at least on the surface.
However, topical use on the scalp is not transposable to an area as sensitive as the eyelids. On the other hand, the promise of rapid results remains a powerful incentive to try this type of viral trick.
Safe alternatives for lash care
For those who wish to enhance the density of their eyes without risking eye irritation, there are serums on the market specifically formulated for eyelashes. These treatments have been developed to respect the sensitivity of the eye contour area.
The specialist therefore recommends turning to these products rather than diverting a hair treatment. These serums are often enriched with peptides, fortifying agents and moisturizing active ingredients adapted to this delicate area.
Admittedly, the results are more gradual than those promised by some viral videos. What’s more, their safety profile is much better adapted to the eye contour area, making them a much more reasoned option for caring for your natural bangs.
By choosing a product designed for this purpose, you protect both the quality of your look and the long-term health of your eyes.
