Many of us strive for long, thick, and dark eyelashes. Prominent eyes and eyelashes are considered a sign of beauty, confidence, and well-being. There are various techniques we follow to enhance the prominence of eyelashes. Though makeup can temporarily improve your eyelashes’ appearance, some long-lasting solutions are also available.
Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03% (Latisse®), a synthetic prostaglandin analog, to increase the length, thickness, and darkness of eyelashes. It is marketed under the brand name Lumigan, manufacturer Allergan, Inc, which is a prescription eyedrop used to treat glaucoma.
The eyelash growth was an unexpected side effect of Lumigan, which was seen in glaucoma patients. This led to the creation of Latisse, the only eyelash growth serum approved by the FDA.
For Latisse, a prescription from a skilled health professional is required. Specific guidelines should be followed carefully to avoid any side effects.
What is Latisse?
Latisse marks the use of bimatoprost solution 0.03%, an FDA-approved treatment to grow eyelashes for people with poor or not enough lashes. Latisse is a clinically-proven technique to make eyelashes longer, thicker, and darker.
Effectiveness
According to data published by the FDA, Latisse was effective in 79% of people who used it for eyelash enhancement (1). The effect of Latisse was more evident after 16 weeks.
Latisse brings a slight increase in the darkness of the eyelashes, but this is not as intense as its effect on eyelashes’ length and thickness.
Treatment for Hypotrichosis
Hypotrichosis is a condition that affects hair growth, resulting in inadequate eyelashes. Latisse is prescribed to treat this condition.
Sometimes eyelash hair loss occurs due to medications or cosmetics. In such conditions, Latisse treatment is recommended. If you want to boost your eyelashes, this treatment can help.
Latisse Treatment - Duration
Latisse treatment does not give instant results. It may take two months to notice any improvement in the length and thickness of eyelashes. If you fail to use Latisse regularly, it may take longer to show any results.
Generally, it takes three months for expected results to achieve. Latisse will be effective as long as you use it. It is advised to continue using Latisse, to maintain the thickness of eyelashes.
If you stop using Latisse, your eyelashes will lose thickness within a few weeks and return to the previous state.
How to Use
Latisse is an easy to use medication, and it takes a few minutes to apply it every day. You should follow all the instructions provided with the medication. A sterile applicator will be supplied with Latisse using which you need to apply the medication on your eyelids.
Washing your face hands before applying Latisse is a must; otherwise, it may cause irritation.
Some Tips to follow:
- While applying Latisse, avoid reusing of the applicator to reduce the risk of contaminating it.
- Remove any contact lenses before applying Latisse, and wait for thirty minutes to put them back.
- It is a prescription drug, hence it should be used by only you for whom it is prescribed.
- It is not recommended for people under age 18, and for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- If you develop any irritation or decreased vision, seek immediate medical help.
When to Use
Applying Latisse at night is generally recommended. Applying it before going to bed gives the solution enough time to infuse into your skin. Though it is designed for night-time application, you can use it in the morning if convenient.
Apply Latisse on a clean face without any cosmetics. Leave it for 15 to 20 minutes to dry before applying any products on your face.
Risks and Side Effects
Latisse is approved by the FDA and is safe for most people. However, sometimes you may experience some mild and uncommon side effects.
If you are suffering from any eye problems or infection and any skin allergies, then Latisse is not recommended for you.
Side effects include;
- Redness and itching of eyes
- Darkening of skin and hair growth on other areas of eyelids, which is reversible.
- Increased pigmentation of the eyes leading to darkened eyelids
- Dry eyes
Online Consultation
Latisse is a prescription medication, and a doctor’s consultation is needed before starting the treatment. On iLiveActive we offer online consultation and on doctor’s approval delivery of the medication will be done to your doorstep.
If you are concerned about your eyelashes and willing to get Latisse treatment from a skilled doctor, click here. Our U.S. licensed physician will review your treatment request, follow up, and, if appropriate, write a prescription.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply eye make-up while using Latisse?
It is ok to apply mascara, eye shadow, and other makeups while using Latisse. After applying Latisse, you should allow it to dry for 20 minutes. Once your skin absorbs it, you can apply makeup.
If you are planning to use Latisse at night, make sure you remove all the makeup and cleanse your face thoroughly before applying.
2. Where should I store Latisse?
Latisse can be stored at room temperature in a dry place. Avoid keeping it under direct sunlight. Keep the sterile applicators safely with packaging to avoid contamination.
3. Can I use Latisse to grow my eyebrows?
Though Latisse is not designed to grow your eyebrows, it can help grow long and thick eyebrows. In fact, a study has proven its beneficial effect in increasing eyebrows (2).
FDA has not approved Latisse treatment for eyebrows and is not generally recommended for the same. Some doctors may prescribe it for growing eyebrows when needed.
4. Is it true that my eye color will change with Latisse?
In some rare cases, it was seen that Latisse caused pigmentation of colored parts or iris of your eyes. It is essential to apply Latisse carefully so that it does not enter your eyes. It should be applied to upper eyelashes correctly and the excess solution should be wiped off.
5. What should I do if Latisse gets into my eyes accidentally?
You don’t need to panic if Latisse enters your eyes. When you apply it using a sterile brush, there is a chance that a small amount of solution might enter your eyes. This will not cause any harm. Try to reduce such incidents by applying it carefully every time.
Final Words
Latisse is an effective FDA approved treatment for achieving thicker, fuller, and darker eyelashes. If you are unhappy with your eyelashes, you can try this treatment. Consult a doctor, who can analyze your health condition and can prescribe Latisse.