LATISSE® solution is a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis used to grow eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and darker. Eyelash hypotrichosis is another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes.
To find out if you are a good candidate for Latisse, you must have a consultation with Daniel Townsend, M.D. in Boston or Kathryn Russo, R.N.P. in Wellesley. They can write you a presciption for Latisse that can be filled at yor pharmacy.
What is Latisse?
Latisse is the first prescription treatment approved by the FDA for the treatment of small or thin eyelash growth. When applied regularly on a daily basis, the Latisse product can result in the growth of significantly longer, fuller, darker upper eyelid lashes. The product was discovered by researchers who were working on another eye care product, and quickly marketed for lash growth. The mechanism of the product’s active ingredient, called bimatoprost, is not known precisely, but researchers believe the results are due to an increase of the percentage of lash development during the lash growth phase. About 80% of Latisse users report seeing a significant increase in the growth and fullness of lashes.
Who is a candidate for Latisse?
Any individual who wants to experience fuller, thicker, darker upper lashes is a potential candidate for the Latisse program. In research, even those with sensitive eyes were able to use the product successfully. However, there are some contraindications for its use. Any individual on antibiotics, heart medication, or other drugs, as well as those with neurological and certain other diseases, and those with severe allergies should discuss these conditions prior to beginning the program. In addition, pregnant women as well as those with skin infections or other conditions on the upper eyelids are not good candidates.
Is the lash growth permanent?
The lashes which grow as a result of the Latisse program will last for the natural duration of the eyelash growth cycle, which is usually 1 to 2 months.
How does Latisse work?
Latisse is a prescription product which you apply yourself at home. Prior to applying the product, you should wash your face and remove any makeup or creams. Contacts should also be removed. Prepare the special applicator by placing a drop of solution on the applicator and apply it to the base of the upper eyelid where the lash base meets the skin of the eyelid. Any excess solution should be blotted off with a dry tissue. Use a fresh applicator for each lid – never reuse an applicator. Some individuals have reported temporary itching or slight redness after application, but these conditions usually resolve once the body becomes accustomed to the product. Latisse is meant to be applied to the lid, not to the eye itself; however, if a small amount of the solution enters the eye, it will not harm the eye.
When will I begin to see results from Latisse?
Great eyelashes don't just happen overnight. That's why it's important to note that LATISSE®
(bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% works gradually and remarkably - with full results after 12 to 16 weeks. You will see initial results at 4 to 8 weeks of continued use. Once you begin treatment, you must continue applying the topical solution each night and follow the directions for best results.
Your eyelashes will experience real measurable growth. LATISSE® works from the inside out. As the treatment progresses, you'll begin to see changes in length, thickness and darkness gradually.
If you stop using LATISSE®, your eyelashes are expected to return to their previous appearance over several weeks to months.
How many Latisse treatments are needed?
The effects of Latisse remain only as long as the product is used. It must be applied every day in the initial 16 weeks of treatment in order to see the complete and optimal lash growth effects; however, many patients begin a maintenance phase after those initial 4 months, applying the product every 2 to 3 days to maintain the effect. Individuals should understand, though, that current recommended dosing instructions advise daily use of Latisse, even after the initial 16-week period. The product is meant to be used continuously, and once treatment stops, you can expect your lashes to return to their pre-treatment appearance at 4 to 6 weeks after ending treatment.
What are advantages of Latisse over other options?
Latisse is currently the only FDA approved prescription product for the growth and development of thicker, fuller, darker lashes; therefore, current alternatives include the use of false eyelashes or thick mascara. Latisse offers fuller, thicker, darker lashes without makeup or prosthetics, and actually causes additional lashes to grow.
Is Latisse approved for use in the USA?
Yes, Latisse is approved by the FDA for lash growth application in the United States.
Follow these guidelines for best results:
Once you know how to apply LATISSE®, it's important to understand a few simple tips to help you make your treatment as effective as possible.
- Think routine. Try to incorporate LATISSE® into your nightly routine - for example, after you've washed your face and brushed your teeth.
- Keep it handy. Store the LATISSE® bottle near your other skin care products or toothbrush, so you won't forget to apply it each night.
- Have patience. LATISSE® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% takes time to work. Only use it once a night, and don't overuse it, as this may increase the chance of experiencing eye redness or itchiness.
- Start fresh. If your eye makeup remover leaves an oily residue on your eyelids, wash off any excess oils with soap and water to ensure a clean surface before you apply LATISSE®.
- Follow the rules. Always use the sterile, disposable FDA-approved applicator provided in the kit. Don't try to apply LATISSE® with a cotton swab. The LATISSE® applicator is specially designed to hold a drop and release a drop.
- Don't play catch up. If you miss a dose one night, don't apply more just to catch up. Simply apply LATISSE® the next evening and stay on schedule.
- Beware of germs. Don't let the tip of the bottle or applicator contact your fingers or any other unintended surface, in order to avoid contamination by common bacteria known to cause infections.
There are possible side effects. The most common side effects after using LATISSE® solution are an itching sensation in the eyes and/or eye redness. This was reported in approximately 4% of patients. LATISSE® solution may cause other less common side effects which typically occur on the skin close to where LATISSE® is applied, or in the eyes. These include skin darkening, eye irritation, dryness of the eyes, and redness of the eyelids.
If you develop a new ocular condition (e.g., trauma or infection), experience a sudden decrease in visual acuity, have ocular surgery, or develop any ocular reactions, particularly conjunctivitis and eyelid reactions, you should immediately seek your physician's advice concerning the continued use of LATISSE® solution.
In the clinical study, 78% of participants (versus 18% for vehicle) experienced a significant increase in overall eyelash prominence (including elements of length, fullness, and darkness) at week 16.