Latisse®, also known as bimatoprost ophthalmic solution, is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for improving inadequate eyelashes. Latisse® works by making your eyelashes longer, fuller, and darker*.
Background
Latisse® started as a version of a glaucoma medication used to regulate eye pressure. Eye doctors using it for glaucoma patients began to notice an astonishing side effect of the medication—longer lashes. You need a prescription to use it.
How Does It Work?
Your eyelashes grow in phases, which means that they will fall out and allow new lashes to grow periodically. Latisse® works by extending the growth phase of your lashes and increasing the overall number of hairs. When using the medication, you will first notice a change in eyelash length, followed by thickness and then darkness. Latisse® provides gradual results, and most patients see full results by week 16 of use. Once you stop using the medication, your lashes will gradually return to their original state in the next several weeks or months.
How Do I Use It?
Latisse® comes with sterile applicators for you to use. You should not re-use these applicators, because after one use, they are no longer sterile and could lead to infection.
You use Latisse® by applying it to your upper eyelashes every night. Your skin should be clean and you should not be wearing any makeup or contact lenses. Do not apply Latisse® to your lower eyelid. The medication will distribute itself to your lower lash line as you blink.
Once you start to see full results, your medical professional may have you start using Latisse® every two days instead of daily in order to maintain your results.
Are There Side Effects?
The use of Latisee® may cause an increase in brown pigmentation in the colored part of the eye. About 4 percent of patients report experiencing red and itchy eyes. Eyelid darkening is also possible, but this will reverse when you stop using the medication. You should talk to your doctor if you already take medications for eye pressure issues, and let your doctor know if you develop an eye condition or infection, or need to have eye surgery.
You might not be a candidate for Latisse® if you have severe allergies, certain skin infection, or are pregnant. Your medical professional can help you determine if Latisse® is right for you.