Weird Ingredients that Work

In honor of this feature on “30 Beauty Products with Weird but Effective Ingredients”, here’s a closer look at the unconventional actives behind Plume’s lash system — and why they work.

At the core is a prostaglandin-free approach to lash enhancement — using a patented botanical system instead of hormone analogs. See how prostaglandin-free lash serums work and why this matters.

Coleus Forskohlii Root Oil

Long used in Ayurvedic medicine, Coleus Forskohlii has been studied for its ability to activate cellular signaling pathways (notably cAMP), which play a role in hair follicle activity.

In Plume: Coleus is part of a patented system designed to support the appearance of longer, fuller lashes by helping maintain the active phase of the lash cycle — without relying on prostaglandin pathways.

Organic Castor Oil

Castor oil is rich in fatty acids that help condition and protect hair fibers, improving flexibility and reducing breakage.

In Plume: Castor oil works synergistically with Coleus to support lash density and resilience — helping lashes appear thicker, healthier, and more conditioned over time.

The System: Why It Works

Rather than forcing follicle stimulation through prostaglandin analogs, Plume’s approach combines signaling support (Coleus) with structural conditioning (Castor Oil). This “support + protect” model is what allows visible enhancement without the side-effect profile associated with prostaglandins.

Cinchona Succirubra Bark Extract

Derived from South American bark, this botanical contains quinine-related compounds traditionally used in herbal medicine.

In Plume: used to support overall hair longevity and reinforce the health of the lash environment.

Full ingredient list

Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Organic Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Tussilago Farfara (Coltsfoot) Flower Extract, Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extract, Cinchona Succirubra Bark Extract, Water, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Glycerin, Honey Extract, Prunus Amygdalus (Sweet Almond) Oil, Sucrose Laurate, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Nasturtium Officinale (Watercress) Extract, Tropaeolium Majus (Indian Cress) Extract, Xanthan Gum, Coleus Forskohlii Root Oil, Carya Ovata (Hickory) Bark Extract.