LATISSE®
Definition: LATISSE® solution is a product by Allergan that is really bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03 %. It is a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis (not enough lashes) used to grow eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and darker. [1]
How Does it Work?
LATISSE® is believed to affect the growth (anagen) phase of the eyelash hair cycle. It does this in two ways: first, it increases the length of this phase; and second, it increases the number of hairs in this growth phase. The exact way it works is unknown and under review through clinical studies. [1] . LATISSE® contains bimatoprost, the same active ingredient that is in the glaucoma medication Lumigan.
How to Apply LATISSE®
Latisse is applied each night before bed. It should be the last product you apply to your face, and contacts should be removed before applying Latisse. Latisse comes with a sterile applicator. Patients are instructed to place one drop of LATISSE® solution on the area of the applicator closest to the tip but not on the tip. The applicator is then drawn along the skin at the base of the upper eyelashes from inner to outer (nose to ear). Latisse is not for application to the lower eyelid. If excess solution remains beyond the eyelid blot it off, and then dispose of the applicator. Repeat with a new sterile applicator on the other eye. [1]
Precautions
Always use the sterile, disposable, FDA-approved applicator provided in the kit. Don’t try to apply LATISSE® with a cotton swab or other applicator. The LATISSE® applicator is specially designed to hold a drop and release a drop, and other applicators may increase infection risk.
Only use LATISSE® once a night as overuse may increase the chance of experiencing eye redness or itchiness. [1]
Timing and Results
LATISSE® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% works gradually with full results after 12 to 16 weeks. Once you begin treatment, you must continue applying the topical solution each night and follow the directions for best results. If you stop using LATISSE®, your eyelashes are expected to return to their previous appearance over several weeks to months. [1]
In one clinical study 78% of participants (versus 18% for vehicle) experienced a significant increase in overall eyelash prominence (including elements of length, fullness, and darkness) at week 16. [2]
Side Effects and Safety
The most common side effects after using LATISSE® solution are itching eyes and eye redness. This was reported in approximately 4% of patients. [3] LATISSE® solution may cause other less common side effects which typically occur on the skin close to where LATISSE® is applied, or in the eyes. These include darkening of the eyelid skin which may be reversible, and increased brown pigmentation of the colored part of the eye which is likely to be permanent [3]
If you develop an ocular condition such as trauma to the eye, infection, experience a sudden decrease in visual acuity, have ocular surgery, or develop any ocular reactions, particularly conjunctivitis and eyelid reactions, you should immediately seek your physician’s advice concerning the continued use of LATISSE® solution. [3]
It is possible for hair growth to occur in other areas of your skin that LATISSE® frequently touches. This is why any excess solution outside the upper eyelid margin should be blotted with a tissue or other absorbent material to reduce the chance of this from happening. It is also possible for a difference in eyelash length, thickness, fullness, pigmentation, number of eyelash hairs, and/or direction of eyelash growth to occur between eyes. These differences, should they occur, will usually go away if use of LATISSE® is stopped. [3]
If you are using LUMIGAN® or other products in the same class for elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), or if you have a history of abnormal IOP, you should only use LATISSE® under the close supervision of your physician. [3]
Due to the new FDA clearance (2009) of this product not all long term side effects have been tested. LATISSE® is currently only available through a physician.