On December 26, 2008, the drug company Allergan announced that the FDA had approved Latisse 0.03% as a treatment for hypotrichosis (the medical term for sparse eyelashes).

 

The active ingredient in Latisse is bimatoprost. It has been used for the treatment of eye disorders like glaucoma for years. It was noted that those on glaucoma medication grew longer lashes. One thing led to another and now we finally have a product that works to grow lashes. Can you believe it? I can write a prescription for you to grow longer lashes! I do not think your insurance will cover it and it will cost $120. According to Allergan, when Latisse is applied once daily to the upper lash line (this product should not be used on the lower lashes), lasher are longer and thicker in 8 weeks, with full results in 16 weeks. You’ll need to keep using it to maintain those results — once use is discontinued, lashes begin to return to their original state.

 

In studies, subjects tolerated Latisse well — the primary reported side effects were eye redness or itchiness and darkening of the eyelids. Anyone considering using this, or any, drug should discuss the specifics of their medical history (particularly if they are already taking the glaucoma drug Lumigan) with their doctor. To find a dermatologist in your area go to www.aad.org.