Latisse is a prescription medication used to grow longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes. It is a solution applied to the base of the upper eyelashes using a small, disposable brush. Latisse was developed by the pharmaceutical company Allergan and was originally approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2008 to treat hypotrichosis, a condition characterized by inadequate or not enough eyelashes.
The active ingredient in Latisse is bimatoprost, a synthetic prostaglandin analog. Prostaglandins are naturally occurring compounds that play a role in various bodily functions, including the regulation of eye pressure. Bimatoprost works by increasing the length of the eyelash growth cycle, resulting in longer and thicker eyelashes. It also increases the number of hairs that grow during each cycle.
Latisse is applied once daily, usually at bedtime, to the base of the upper eyelashes. The solution should be applied to the skin of the upper eyelid margin at the base of the eyelashes. It is important to avoid getting the solution in the eye or on the lower lid. If the solution gets into the eye, it is not expected to cause harm, but it may cause temporary changes in the color of the iris (the colored part of the eye).
Latisse is a safe and effective treatment for hypotrichosis when used as directed. The most common side effects are eye irritation, dryness, and redness. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own. Less common side effects include darkening of the skin around the base of the eyelashes, increased brown pigmentation of the iris, and growth of hair in other areas of the face.
It is important to note that Latisse is a prescription medication, and it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It is not recommended for use in individuals with certain medical conditions, such as glaucoma or allergies to bimatoprost or any other ingredients in the product. It is also not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Latisse can be a good option for people who want longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes but do not want to undergo lash extensions or other more invasive treatments. It is also a good option for people who have hypotrichosis, a medical condition that causes inadequate or not enough eyelashes. However, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the medication with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
In summary, Latisse is a prescription medication used to grow longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes. It is applied once daily to the base of the upper eyelashes and is safe and effective when used as directed. However, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting treatment and to follow the instructions for use carefully to avoid potential side effects.