Let's get something out in the open right from the start: Hair Folli manufactures a lash serum, which means we're naturally biased. If that makes you skeptical of this comparison, fair enough—you should be.
But here's the thing: after years developing formulations, studying competitors, and working with Australian suppliers in this space, we've learned what actually creates results versus what's just clever packaging and marketing claims. And honestly? Sometimes our competitors do things better than we do.
So while we can't claim complete objectivity (no brand can), we can offer insider perspective on what makes lash serums work, what the trade-offs are between different approaches, and when you might be better off choosing a competitor over us.
This is our honest take on the Australian lash serum landscape in 2026—including where Hair Folli fits and where it doesn't.
For balanced results and safety, peptide-based serums like Hair Folli ($88), RevitaLash ($170), or The Ordinary ($23) work within 4-10 weeks without prostaglandin risks. For fastest results with higher side effect potential, prostaglandin formulas like GrandeLASH ($105) deliver in 4-6 weeks. Australian-made options include Hair Folli and Lash Rehab, both TGA-compliant and formulated for local conditions.
What Actually Makes a Lash Serum Work?
Before diving into specific products, it helps to understand the two main approaches to lash growth—because they work completely differently.
Peptide-Based Approach (What We Use)
Peptide serums use amino acid chains like myristoyl pentapeptide-17 and biotinoyl tripeptide-1 to support keratin production in lash follicles. They work by nourishing the natural lash growth cycle, strengthening existing lashes, and helping them reach their full genetic potential.
- Timeline: 4-10 weeks for visible results
- Side effects: Very low (under 5% irritation rate)
- Risks: No eye color changes, safe for all eye colors
- Best for: Long-term use, sensitive eyes, sustainable results
Prostaglandin Approach (Competitors Use This)
Prostaglandin analogs (like isopropyl cloprostenate or bimatoprost) extend the active growth phase of lashes, forcing them to grow longer than they naturally would. Originally developed for glaucoma treatment, this approach delivers faster, more dramatic results—but with trade-offs.
- Timeline: 4-6 weeks for initial results
- Side effects: 15-25% irritation rate
- Risks: Possible eyelid darkening, 1-3% risk of iris color change in light eyes
- Best for: Speed over safety, short-term use, brown eyes
Neither approach is inherently "better"—they're different tools for different priorities. We chose peptides for Hair Folli because we wanted a formula safe for long-term daily use without eye color risks. But if you want maximum speed and accept the trade-offs, prostaglandins work faster.
Hair Folli Eyelash Serum: Our Product (Yes, We're Biased)
Price: $88 AUD
Where to buy: hairfolli.com
Results timeline: 4-6 weeks for visible changes
Obviously we think our product is good—we wouldn't sell it otherwise. But let's be honest about what it does well and where it falls short.
What Hair Folli Does Well
We formulated this specifically for Australian conditions, which matters more than you might think. Sydney's hard water, Melbourne's variable weather, Brisbane's humidity, and Perth's intense UV all affect lash health differently than European or North American climates.
The formula uses 3% myristoyl pentapeptide-17 (clinical concentration), biotin for structural strength, hyaluronic acid to prevent brittleness, and Australian botanicals like Kakadu Plum for antioxidant protection. It's 100% vegan, prostaglandin-free, and manufactured in Australia to TGA standards.
Most users see visible improvements within 4-6 weeks—lashes look longer, feel stronger, and shed less. The irritation rate in our customer feedback sits around 3-4%, which is low for this category.
Where Hair Folli Falls Short
Let's be honest about the limitations:
Not the fastest option: Prostaglandin serums like GrandeLASH work quicker if speed is your only priority.
More expensive than budget options: The Ordinary's peptide serum costs $23 versus our $88. You're paying for Australian formulation, higher peptide concentration, and additional botanicals—but if budget is tight, cheaper options exist.
Not the most clinically documented: RevitaLash has more published studies and clinical trials. We have customer feedback and formulation science, but we're a smaller brand without the research budget of established international companies.
Takes patience: Nothing visible happens for the first 3-4 weeks. If you expect overnight results, you'll be disappointed.
Who Should Choose Hair Folli
Hair Folli works best for people who want peptide-based results without prostaglandin risks, have sensitive eyes or light-colored eyes (no iris darkening risk), prefer Australian-made products, or want a balance of safety and effectiveness.
It's not right for anyone wanting absolute fastest possible results, needing maximum clinical documentation, or working with a very tight budget.
Shop Hair Folli Vegan Lash Serum
GrandeLASH-MD: The Speed Option (With Trade-Offs)
Price: $105 AUD
Where to buy: Sephora Australia, Adore Beauty
Results timeline: 4-6 weeks
GrandeLASH uses isopropyl cloprostenate, a prostaglandin analog that delivers faster results than peptide serums. Most users see noticeable changes by week 4-5.
The trade-off: Higher irritation rates (10-15% of users), potential for temporary eyelid darkening, and 1-3% risk of permanent iris darkening in light-colored eyes. It's also more expensive than Hair Folli at $105.
When to choose this: If you have brown eyes, no eye sensitivity history, want maximum speed, and accept the side effect risks. Not recommended during pregnancy or nursing.
Why we don't use prostaglandins: We wanted a formula safe for unlimited long-term use without eye color concerns. Prostaglandins work faster but come with risks we weren't comfortable with for a daily-use product.
RevitaLash Advanced: The Premium Peptide Option
Price: $170 AUD
Where to buy: Adore Beauty, select salons
Results timeline: 6-8 weeks
RevitaLash is a well-established peptide-based serum with extensive clinical testing and ophthalmologist validation. The formulation is solid, the safety profile is excellent, and the brand has strong credibility.
The honest comparison: RevitaLash uses similar peptide technology to Hair Folli. You're paying $170 versus our $88 primarily for brand reputation, more extensive clinical documentation, and premium packaging.
When to choose this: If maximum clinical validation matters to you, you want an established international brand, or you prefer purchasing through beauty retailers like Adore Beauty rather than direct from a brand website.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum: The Budget Option
Price: $23 AUD
Where to buy: Priceline, Sephora, Adore Beauty
Results timeline: 10-12 weeks
The Ordinary uses the same core peptide (myristoyl pentapeptide-17) as more expensive options, just in a simpler formula without the supporting ingredients like botanicals and specialized conditioning agents.
Results take longer—typically 10-12 weeks versus our 4-6 weeks—but if you're budget-conscious or want to test the lash serum category before investing more, it's a solid entry point.
When to choose this: Limited budget, very sensitive eyes (extremely gentle formula), or first-time lash serum user wanting to test with minimal financial commitment.
Lash Rehab: The Australian Competitor
Price: $89 AUD
Where to buy: thelashrehab.com
Results timeline: 4-8 weeks
Lash Rehab is Australian-made, dermatologically tested in Australian labs, and positioned similarly to Hair Folli as a vegan, peptide-based alternative to prostaglandin serums.
They use a slightly different peptide blend and have strong customer testimonials. Both products work—this comes down to personal preference, ingredient profile preference, or which brand's approach resonates with you.
Quick Comparison: At a Glance
| Product | Price | Timeline | Approach | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Folli | $88 | 4-6 weeks | Peptide + botanicals | Balance of results + safety |
| GrandeLASH | $105 | 4-6 weeks | Prostaglandin | Speed over safety |
| RevitaLash | $170 | 6-8 weeks | Premium peptide | Maximum clinical testing |
| The Ordinary | $23 | 10-12 weeks | Basic peptide | Budget + gentle |
| Lash Rehab | $89 | 4-8 weeks | Peptide blend | Australian alternative |
How to Choose: A Decision Framework
Here's how to decide based on your priorities:
If safety is your top priority: Choose peptide-based options (Hair Folli, RevitaLash, The Ordinary, Lash Rehab). No eye color risks, very low irritation rates, safe for long-term daily use.
If speed is your top priority: Consider prostaglandin options (GrandeLASH) if you have brown eyes and accept the trade-offs. Peptide serums take 2-4 weeks longer but without the risks.
If budget is your priority: Start with The Ordinary ($23). It works, just takes longer and requires patience.
If you prefer Australian-made: Hair Folli or Lash Rehab are your options, both TGA-compliant and formulated for Australian conditions.
If you have very sensitive eyes: The Ordinary (most gentle), followed by Hair Folli or RevitaLash. Avoid prostaglandin serums entirely.
If you have light-colored eyes (blue, green, hazel): Never use prostaglandin serums due to iris darkening risk. Stick with peptide-based options exclusively.
How to Actually Use Lash Serum
Application technique matters as much as product choice:
Clean and dry: Remove all makeup and wait 5 minutes after washing your face. Water dilutes serum effectiveness.
Thin line only: Apply along upper lash line where lashes meet skin, like applying eyeliner. Don't glob it on—more product doesn't speed results.
Let it absorb: Wait 90 seconds before applying other products.
Once daily is enough: More applications don't work faster. Once at night is optimal.
Lower lash line optional: Focus on upper lashes. Blinking naturally transfers some serum to lower lashes.
Timeline expectations: Weeks 1-3 (nothing visible—this is normal), Week 4 (subtle changes start), Weeks 6-8 (clear improvements), Week 12+ (maximum results for your genetics).
FAQs: Common Questions About Best Eyelash Lash Serums
Will my lashes fall out if I stop using serum?
No, your lashes won't suddenly fall out. They'll gradually return to their baseline appearance over 2-4 months as enhanced lashes complete their natural cycle and shed. New lashes will grow according to your natural genetic blueprint without the serum's support. This is normal and expected—serums support ongoing growth, not permanent transformation.
Can I use lash serum with lash extensions?
Yes, but modify your technique. Apply only to the skin at your lash line using a cotton swab or fine-tip applicator—don't touch the extension bonds. Use oil-free formulas like Hair Folli or GrandeLASH that won't break down adhesive. Wait 48-72 hours after fresh extensions before starting serum. This actually helps—you're strengthening natural lashes underneath so they're healthier when extensions come off.
Are lash serums safe during pregnancy?
Peptide-based serums (Hair Folli, RevitaLash, The Ordinary) are generally considered lower risk with minimal systemic absorption, but always consult your obstetrician before use. Prostaglandin serums (GrandeLASH, Latisse) are not recommended during pregnancy or nursing as prostaglandins can affect uterine contractions. When in doubt, wait until after pregnancy and nursing—lash serums aren't essential, and your baby's health comes first.
Will lash serum change my eye color?
Only prostaglandin-based serums (GrandeLASH, Latisse) carry iris darkening risk—approximately 1-3% in light-colored eyes (blue, green, hazel). This change is permanent and irreversible. Peptide-based serums (Hair Folli, RevitaLash, The Ordinary, Lash Rehab) have zero eye color risk because they work through completely different mechanisms. If you have light eyes, stick with peptide formulas exclusively.
How long until I see results from a lash serum?
Peptide serums typically show visible improvements in 4-10 weeks depending on formulation strength and your individual lash cycle. Prostaglandin serums work slightly faster at 4-6 weeks. Nothing visible happens in weeks 1-3—this is normal biology, not product failure. Your lash follicles are responding, you just can't see it yet. Take weekly photos to track subtle progress. Maximum results appear around 12 weeks for most people.
Our Honest Recommendation About Choosing Your Best Eyelash Serum
If we're being completely transparent: most peptide-based lash serums with clinical-grade peptide concentrations work similarly. The differences between Hair Folli, RevitaLash, and Lash Rehab are more about price point, brand preference, and supporting ingredients than fundamental effectiveness.
Choose based on what matters to you: Australian-made credentials, budget constraints, brand reputation, or specific ingredient profiles. If you want our product, we think it offers a solid balance of safety, results, and value. If you prefer a competitor, that's genuinely fine—we'd rather you use a good serum consistently than buy ours and use it sporadically.
The most important decision isn't which brand you choose—it's choosing peptides over prostaglandins if safety matters to you, and committing to consistent daily use for 8-12 weeks minimum.
The Hair Folli Content Team works with Australian formulation chemists, manufacturing partners, and hair wellness specialists to create science-informed content about lash and hair health. We collaborate with optometrists and dermatologists to ensure safety information accuracy. This comparison was created to provide honest, balanced information—even when it means recommending competitors. We're a small Australian brand, not a research institution, so we focus on transparency about our limitations while sharing what we've learned from working in this space. Customer feedback and industry experience inform our content, and we update articles regularly to reflect new research and formulation improvements.