Latisse for Longer, Thicker, Fuller Eyelashes

Latisse is the marketing name for a medication called bimatoprost. The FDA approved it as a treatment for hypotrichosis of the eyelashes with hypotrichosis being abnormally sparse hair growth. Bimatoprost, which is also sold under the name Lumigan, was originally made to treat glaucoma. It worked but increased the growth of the eyelashes proved to be a common side effect. Latisse was therefore developed to make clients’ eyelashes grow longer, thicker and darker. It both increases the number of eyelashes and makes them grow longer.

Latisse is designed to be used at home by the patient. Before using Latisse, the patient should wash their face and remove their contact lenses and make-up. The patient uses Latisse by dabbing it along the lash line of the upper eyelid at night with the sterile applicators that come with the kit. They should not put it directly in their eye or along the lower eyelid. Blinking will automatically spread the Latisse to the lower eyelid. The client should use the medication for at least two months to get the desired results. If the client stops using Latisse, their eyelashes will eventually revert to their original condition.

Risks of using Latisse

Latisse can cause a number of side effects. They include dry, itchy or red eyes, darkened eyelids or darkened brown pigments in the iris. If Latisse drips off the eyelids, it can cause hair growth around the eyes.

The client should never reuse an applicator but throw it out immediately after using it. Reusing an applicator can cause an allergic reaction or an eye infection.

Who should not use Latisse?

Latisse is safe for most people, but pregnant women should not use it, and nursing women should at least consider waiting to use it. It is not yet known what effects Latisse might have on developing babies or very small children.

People with eye conditions like conjunctivitis or uveitis should not use Latisse. Neither should anybody with an infection or allergy around the upper eyelid use Latisse. People who are prone to macular edema should also not use Latisse.

Latisse contains an ingredient that reduces eye pressure that is caused by the amount of aqueous humor filling the eye. People being treated for glaucoma or other conditions that cause an abnormally high pressure need to tell their doctor about it before using Latisse. The doctor will need to monitor the client’s eye pressure during the treatment. The client should also inform their doctor if they are planning to have eye surgery soon.

At the John Bull Center for Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Medispa, we provide Latisse to our patients who struggle with thin or not enough lashes. With the help of Dr. John Bull, we can determine if Latisse is right for you. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us today, to schedule a consultation.