How To Make Eyelashes Darker Without Mascara

Whatever your eye shape or color, having dark eyelashes can open up your eyes and make them look bigger and brighter. Many people turn to mascara to create this effect, but is there a way you can make your eyelashes darker without having to apply mascara every morning?

closeup of a woman's eye and her lashes

6 effective ways you can make your eyelashes look darker without mascara are:

  1. Lash tinting
  2. Castor oil
  3. Vaseline
  4. Magnetic lashes
  5. Eyelash extensions
  6. Lash serum

Why Skip Mascara?

Mascara is an easy and convenient way to get darker eyelashes, but it has some downsides too.

There may be many reasons you might want to take a break from mascara, including:

  1. It’s time-consuming – you’re fed up with applying it every morning
  2. It smudges –you could do without the under-eye smudges every afternoon
  3. It’s temporary – it washes off at the end of the day and you have to re-apply it the next morning
  4. It can dry out your eyelashes – wearing mascara every day could cause your eyelashes to become dry and brittle over time
  5. It’s not for everyone – some people simply don’t like wearing mascara. Perhaps it irritates their eyes or they simply feel it does not suit them.

Luckily, there are a few ways you can darken your eyelashes without having to put on mascara every morning.

How To Make Your Eyelashes Darker Without Mascara

woman staring into the distance. She has brown eyes and mascara on her lashes.

1. Lash Tinting

Lash tinting is an ideal option if you want to make your eyelashes darker without mascara. It is especially good for those whose lashes are naturally pale.

You will probably find you don’t want or need to use mascara after getting your eyelashes tinted.

Eyelash tints usually last for about a month. It is recommended you see a reputable beautician, but you can also get at-home lash tint kits.

Be wary though as the eye area is delicate and vulnerable. Always do a patch test first and be sure to follow the instructions on the pack.

2. Try Castor Oil

Castor oil is reputed to make your eyelashes grow longer, thicker, and darker. However, be aware it is not an overnight solution.

To reap the lash-enhancing benefits of castor oil, apply nightly to your lashes after washing your face (always do a patch test first to ensure it will not cause irritation to the eye area).

Apply a small amount of castor oil with a clean cotton swab to the base of your lashes. Alternatively, you can use a clean mascara wand to apply it.

In the morning wash the oil off your lashes with warm water and a washcloth.

Castor oil will have the best results for those whose eyelashes are already somewhat dark. It won’t have very noticeable results if your eyelashes are blonde.

3. Vaseline

In a similar way to natural oils, Vaseline can help make your eyelashes look darker, at least temporarily. It will also soften and condition your lashes.

Apply a thin layer with a clean finger or a cotton bud to your eyelashes each night, taking care not to get it into the eyes.

You can also apply a thin layer to your eyelashes in the morning and then curl them, as a natural, subtle alternative to mascara.

Again, this will only really work if your eyelashes are already somewhat dark. It won’t have significant darkening effects for those with blonde lashes.

4. Magnetic Lashes

Magnetic lashes are a type of false lash that attach to your eyelashes with magnets. They create the illusion of darker, longer and thicker lashes. They are reusable and are not too heavy on your lashes.

You simply apply a top layer and a bottom layer as close to the lash line as possible. They then click together and stay in place all day for a dramatic look without mascara.

However, if you have long, light eyelashes and you’re looking for a more natural look, tinting may be a better option.

5. Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions are a great semi-permanent option that will make your lashes look longer and darker without having to apply mascara every morning.

Lash extensions are individual lashes that are glued to the ends of your natural lashes to make your lashes fuller, longer, and darker.

They come in a variety of materials such as silk, mink, and synthetic options. There are varied options depending on the volume you want, from 50 to 100, with varied lengths and curl.

Lash extensions last as long as the eyelash growth cycle, about six weeks, but it is recommended that you get refills about every two to three weeks to avoid patchy areas.

If your lashes are very light they may need to be tinted first so they blend in seamlessly with dark extensions.

They are not the cheapest option, however. Expect a price range of about $80-$100 to get eyelash extensions done at a reputable salon.

6. Try A Lash Serum

There are many lash serums on the market that promise to promote longer, darker and thicker eyelashes.

If you do choose to try a lash serum, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and do a patch test first.

Latisse is the only lash serum that is FDA-approved. It is used to treat patchy or thinning eyelashes and you have to get it on prescription.

It also has some potential side effects, including itchy eyes and discoloring of the eyelids.

Speak to your doctor to see if Latisse could be suitable for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How Can I Make My Eyelashes Look Thicker Without Mascara?

You can make your eyelashes look thicker without mascara by darkening your lash line. To do this, you can use clay or gel eyeliner (kohl is ideal). Apply a thin line directly to your lash line. You can also use a thin brush with black eyeshadow to create the same effect.

Can You Color Eyelashes With Hair Color?

You should NEVER use hair dye anywhere near your eyes, as it contains chemicals that are dangerous to your eyes. Instead, make sure you look for a dye that is specially formulated for use on your eyelashes.

Does Dying Your Eyelashes Make Them Fall Out?

Tinting your eyelashes regularly can dry them out and cause them to become brittle, which could lead to them breaking off. If you tint your eyelashes regularly, it’s a good idea to use a conditioning lash serum or natural oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, or even Vaseline on your lashes on a regular basis.