1.       Putting mascara on and taking it off has got to be pretty rough on your lashes, right? 

It can definitely be rough on your lashes and cause damage. 

Some tips…

1)    Use gentle, ophthalmologist tested, and oil-free make-up removers such as Clinique Take the Day Off. It dissolves long wearing even waterproof eye make-up. It is safe to use around the eyes, and appropriate for contact lens wearers. 

a.     Another brand to try: They’re Real Remover, by Benefit. If you've ever worn their mascara, even though it isn't waterproof, it can still be a pain to remove. This formula is also safe for around the eyes, but it is a cream version, for all those who prefer not to use the liquid sister of eye make-up remover.

b.     Whichever you choose, you definitely want to use cotton rounds,

2)    And for heaven’s sake ladies, be gentle! Swipe softly in a downward stroke in order to minimize pulling out or damaging your eyelashes.

3)    You will the want to follow with a cleanser that is safe to use on and around the eyes. Try Caudalie Gentle Cleansing Milk which is gentle enough for around the eye area and will help facilitate further breakdown of eyeliner and mascara.

4)    Also if you can avoid waterproof mascara, that would be helpful.

2. There’s so much we can do to nourish our skin, but what are some things we can do for our eyelashes?

There are several lash conditioners on the market and if you think about it, lashes are hair follicles that we often neglect.  A few favorites include Chanel Beaute des Cils and Dior Diorshow Maximizer. Both can be worn as a primer under your mascara for added thickness, or what is even cooler is that they can be worn alone before bed due to their conditioning properties. Both contain a conditioning formula that fortifies and hydrates, while enhancing lash volume, density, and color.

Now if you want to grow your lashes or increase the volume, density, color and length….that will take more than a conditioner.  The best product on the market for proven lash growth is Latisse®.

3.       What are many women doing perhaps unknowingly that can damage their lashes?

Biggest mistake for eyelashes, besides aggressively rubbing the eye area, is false eyelashes and extensions. Overuse of both of these could result in ripping out the eyelashes themselves, or causing damage to the follicle which leads to them not growing back in.  The glue that is used for the application of false lashes can be the most damaging of all.  Its designed to stick to your lashes causing you to pull them out when removing them.  Steer clear if you can. 

4. Are there products (whether natural remedies or beauty store buys) that really work?

Latisse! Latisse! Latisse!

Latisse ® is an FDA approved prescription medication produced by Allergan that is approved to and indicated to grow eyelashes.  Clinical trials showed that Latisse provided patients with 106% fuller, 25% longer, and 18% darker lashes. 

5. Can you please list all of the steps (in detail) to complete the ultimate lash-care guide (including any relevant products)?

AM Routine

1)    Wash Face Gently around eyes

2)    Apply Lash conditioner such as Chanel Beaute des Cils and Dior Diorshow Maximizer

3)    Apply makeup as usual

PM Routine

1) Gently remove eye make-up with a gently with a gentle eye make-up remover & cleanse face.

-       Take a cotton round/pad and apply the eye make-up remover of choice. Gently stroke in a downward motion. Do not rub to towel dry, lightly pat with towel.

2)    Remove contacts if this applies.

3)    Apply one drop of Latisse via brush applicator to the eyelash margin on each eye. Do not put the product directly in your eye and do not apply it to the lower lids.   Blot away any excess. Dispose of the applicator and use a fresh one for each eye.

You will start seeing results after 4 weeks of consistent use with Latisse and up to 16 weeks for full results.