Latisse is the first approved prescription eye drop found to be effective to treat inadequate or not long enough eyelashes. This treatment has the capability to grow lashes longer, fuller and darker. Latisse is actually a version of a glaucoma drug called bimatoprost (brand name Lumigan, manufacturer Allergan, Inc.). It has been in use as a glaucoma drug since 2001 and during that period, eye doctors and their glaucoma patients noticed a hair growth side effect, with longer, thicker eyelashes appearing over time. The medical term for inadequate eyelash growth is called hypotrichosis however Latisse has been approved purely for the cosmetic benefits of its use.

As with any prescription medication cautions and side-effects exits that patients should be aware of. First of all since the pharmaceutical structure of Lattice is the same as a glaucoma drug, its use must be approved and followed closely by an eye doctor and as a result, routine measurement of intra-ocular pressure of the eye is required. Aside from its intended promotion of longer and thicker eyelashes, Latisse has the potential to increase the brown pigmentation of the iris (the color part of the eye). This color change is likely to be permanent. Some patients also report symptoms of eyelid redness, itching, burning and blurred vision. Pregnant or nursing mothers should not use Latisse and if any type of eye surgery is planned consultation with your eye doctor is required.

Latisse is applied by dabbing it on the upper lash line each night with a supplied sterile applicator. The drug spreads to your lower lash line automatically as you blink. According to the manufacturer, you should never apply it into your eye directly or onto your lower lid and before you apply, your face must be clean and your makeup and contact lenses removed. Applicators must be discarded after each use to avoid serious problems, such as an eye infections or allergic reactions. Care must be taken in applying Latisse carefully since it may promote hair growth on other skin areas. After approximately two months of nightly use, patients may begin to see results. After three or four months a treatment schedule of every two days may be recommended. Recent studies to date report an eyelash length increased of 25 percent, thickness and fullness increased by 106 percent and eyelash darkness increased by 18 percent. Patients that use Lattice should be aware that its eyelash benefits are not permanent such that if its use is discontinued eyelashes will return to their previous appearance. Our office is always available to answer additional questions.