BNNVARA Eyelash Serums & Safety: The Nuance of Syrene

Eyelash serums support the natural growth cycle of your eyelashes. Each hair goes through a growth phase, a transition phase, and a resting phase. The active ingredients in eyelash serums mainly prolong the growth phase, allowing eyelashes to become fuller and longer.

Many effective serums work with prostaglandin analogues: substances that resemble the body's own prostaglandins, which influence hair growth, among other things. A prostaglandin analogue is not a medicine itself, but a related substance. There are different variants, each with a slightly different profile. Important: lower doses are used in cosmetics; the drug bimatoprost may not be used in cosmetics; the permitted variants are milder and are applied differently.

The difference between cosmetic and medicinal applications lies in three factors: Amount (dosage) Where you apply it (lash line vs. directly into the eye) How long you use it daily (weeks vs. months or years) Medical drops are used in the eye for long periods of time and in higher concentrations. Cosmetic serums are applied in low doses along the lash line for a limited period of time. This leads to a different risk profile.

Serums differ because:

there are different prostaglandin analogues,


the concentration varies per brand,


some formulas add peptides, which means a lower dosage is sufficient.

This variation explains why not all serums have the same effects or sensitivities.

The focus on safety is justified. Eyelash serums work through a biological mechanism, and every active cosmetic ingredient should be accompanied by an honest discussion about possible discomfort.

Applying too much, too often, or too close to the eye is the main cause of irritation.

Influencers often show spectacular results without explaining the active ingredient, possible side effects, or safe use. Some "natural" claims are also misleading.

This concerns effectiveness, risks, instructions for use, and differences between serums. That is why nuance is so important.

The explanation below shows what is correct, what is missing, and how you as a user should understand this for each claim.

What is correct: the types of side effects may overlap.
What is missing: dosage, location, and duration of use vary radically.
This makes the risks and their frequency different.

What is correct: PAP is known to occur with long-term use of bimatoprost 0.03%. What is missing: there is no evidence that this occurs with low cosmetic doses when used correctly. Cosmetic case reports are rare, mild, and often reversible.

What is correct: a small amount can get into the eye if applied incorrectly.
What is missing: no study shows "tens of percent."
The only available study shows approximately 5% on the eyelid.

What is correct: this sometimes happens with long-term daily use of medication. What is missing: cosmetic serums are not applied to the iris, contain lower concentrations, and are used for shorter periods of time. The risk is very small when used correctly.

What is correct: that is possible.
What is missing: irreversible effects occur almost exclusively as a result of prolonged use in the event of irritation or incorrect use.
Most cosmetic side effects are reversible.

What is correct: medical drops contain 0.01–0.03% (bimatoprost). What is missing: there are no legal serums with 0.1%; cosmetic dosages are lower and depend on the type of analogue.

What is correct: bimatoprost is very effective.
What is missing: it may not be used in cosmetics.
There are no legal serums in the Netherlands that contain this substance.

What is correct: prostaglandin analogues have a pharmacological effect. What is missing: this also applies to other permitted cosmetic ingredients such as retinol or azelaic acid. The classification of a drug depends on its concentration, application, purpose, and claims.

Risks associated with cosmetic serums mainly arise from: applying too often or too much; rubbing the product into the skin or into the eyes; continuing to use despite irritation; combining with other products around the eyes; prolonged daily use without a maintenance phase. When used correctly, side effects are almost always mild and reversible. Serious complaints usually arise from prolonged overuse or incorrect use.

Because users want to know exactly what they are applying: Superlash has been on the market for 11 years and was recently inspected by the NVWA. The product complies with all EU directives for cosmetics. It contains a prostaglandin analogue in a mild dosage, well below the concentrations used in studies. The formula contains peptides, which means that a lower concentration of prostaglandin analogue is sufficient. The substance and dosage used differ from some serums discussed in the reports. If you have any questions or experience irritation, please feel free to contact us.

Daily phase (12–16 weeks): apply one thin line along the upper lash line, not on the skin, not in the eye, do not use more often than prescribed. Maintenance phase: 2–3 times per week is sufficient to maintain the result. Discontinuation: stop use immediately in case of irritation, redness, or sensitivity; contact your doctor if symptoms persist. Hygiene: clean hands, clean applicator, do not share. Avoid use in case of eye infections or inflammation.

Eyelash serums can produce impressive results by prolonging the growth phase of eyelashes. They really work, which is why it is so important to provide clear information about how they work, their safety, and how to use them correctly.

There are risks, but they are easily manageable in practice. When used correctly, eyelash serums are safe, and most possible side effects are mild and reversible. Stories about serious complaints can almost always be traced back to incorrect use or continued use despite irritation.

Our commitment is clear: transparency, factual explanations, and practical guidance.
So that you, the user, understand what works, what to look out for, and how to use a serum safely. And if you have any questions, doubts, or complaints, we are always here to help.