subject: All About Latisse: Uses, Costs, Risks And Results [print this page] It may seem minor to many, but those suffering from hypotrichosis would disagree. What is hypotrichosis? It's a condition defined by abnormal growth patterns of hair, and it can occur on several different parts of the body. People who have short, brittle, poorly pigmented or non-existent eyelashes suffer from hypotrichosis.
The good news--there is an FDA-approved drug available to encourage eyelash growth and correct the hypotrichosis. It's called Latisse, and like many medications, it was discovered and developed following its effects being seen as a result from a different medication.
Bimatoprost, the ingredient marketed as an eyelash thickener under the Latisse brand name, is also used in Lumigan. Lumigan is a specially formulated eye drop given to patients with glaucoma, and when hair growth was reported as a side effect, research began. Today, Latisse is widely used to promote growth, fullness and color of the eyelashes.
As mentioned, it is FDA-approved, but as with any drug, there are potential side effects. With Latisse, they are minor.
Before looking at possible side effects, however, let's see how Latisse is used and the expense of the product.
Latisse is applied in a thin layer to the upper eyelid, directly along the lid's edge where lashes are to grow. It should be applied modestly, evenly and daily. After daily usage for at least two months, full results begin to appear in the form of fuller, longer and darker lashes. These results will persist for as long as you diligently use the medication. If you cease using Latisse, your eyelashes will eventually return to their former condition--this product doesn't permanently correct hypotrichosis.
On average, you can expect to pay approximately $130 for a month's supply. This could vary, so be sure to discuss expenses and costs with your doctor before beginning the treatment.
Also, know that Latisse is not intended to be used on the lower eyelid and should never be applied there.
To the side effects--they are rare and minimal. However, before beginning any new medication or treatment, you should educate yourself on potential risks and side effects.
For Latisse, they include: red, itchy and irritated eyes; dry eyes; pigmentation problems, such as darkening of the eyelids or even the iris itself; and abnormal hair growth. If Latisse habitually runs or makes contact with areas other than the eyelid's edge, hair growth and hyperpigmentation can occur in those areas, as well.
It is possible that the darkening of the lids, irritating eye conditions and abnormal hair growth will subside after you stop using Latisse. However, pigment changes of/in the eye itself are unlikely to change after you discontinue the product.
There have been studies conducted to evaluate the success of Latisse on people who have suffered hair loss through alopecia, cancer treatments or other conditions. Results vary, showing success in some cases and none in others.
If you're affected by hypotrichosis and are interested in having thicker, longer, darker eyelashes, Latisse may be for you. Be sure to discuss your desires, concerns and finances with your doctor to guarantee you're a good candidate for the product.
