Get Longer Lashes with Latisse
Long, thick, and dark eyelashes are sought after characteristics with potential to elevate our confidence and self perception. We’ve all used mascara, the most accessible and traditional way to highlight and thicken the lashes. Artificial lashes are all the rage and with dramatic outcomes. Then there’s Latisse, or bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03%, which is an FDA-approved treatment to grow eyelashes for those lacking (1).
How it works:
There are three phases for an eyelash: the growth phase (anagen), the degradation phase (catagen), and the resting phase (telogen). Bimatoprost works by increasing the percentage of follicles in the growth phase, resulting in longer lashes (2). Bimatoprost also stimulates cells to release pigment which darkens the lashes. The lashes thicken as well because the actual hair bulb and hair production cells are stimulated.
In a study looking at 276 people where about half were given Latisse and the other half placebo, at week 16 the Latisse group had more than doubled the lash fullness! Latisse is a prostaglandin analog which means it binds to prostaglandin receptors in the cell, and prostaglandins have hormone-like effects that stimulate growth. Originally prescribed to reduce pressure in the eye for glaucoma, it was noted that eyelashes were growing (3). In 2010 Latisse became approved for use to grow eyelashes (4).
Is it safe to put this on my eye?
We are stimulating hair growth with a hormone-like substance so proper consideration of use is warranted. Latisse’s safety has been established in trials, and its safety stems from the fact that when used to grow lashes, there is no contact with the actual eye (5). There are also studies showing it’s safety in pediatric patients (6). Side effects like itchy eyes are more likely to happen when the medicine gets in the eye; application for cosmetic purposes involves only the upper eyelid, with careful attention to avoid contact with the actual eye (7). The most common side effects are itchy or red eyes which happen in about 4% of cases. In a study looking at the long term safety (1 year), side effects were localized, non serious, mild in severity, and reversible (8).
Will this change my eye color?
This medicine stimulates pigment producing cells, accounting for the lash darkening. When used as an eye drop to treat glaucoma, brown spots on the colored part of the eye can and do occur, and this is irreversible. When we use the medicine on the upper lash only, and avoid getting it in the eye and lower lid, the incidence for darkening becomes rare (9).
For those with inadequate lashes, Latisse is a relatively safe, affordable, and effective treatment to grow, thicken, and darken your lashes. A prescription is required for use; schedule a complimentary ‘Latisse virtual visit’ to see if you are a good candidate for treatment. Mention this blog and get 10% off your next treatment. 16 weeks of treatment currently costs $175.
Resources
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5414776/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20384750/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20730536/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3185096/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20384750/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27022239/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28122407/