Latisse is a prescription treatment for inadequate or not enough lashes (hypotrichosis). If you are using prescription products for lowering eye pressure or have a history of eye pressure problems, only use Latisse under close doctor care. If you have risk factors for glaucoma, consult your eye care specialist before starting Latisse. Do not use Latisse solution if you are allergic to one of its ingredients. We are happy to talk with you about whether Latisse is right for you.
Only Latisse has been approved by the FDA as a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis used to grow eyelashes.
Latisse is believed to affect the growth (anagen) phase of the eyelash hair cycle 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.
Latisse received its FDA approval in December 2008, after a team of 16 experienced doctors from all over the country conducted clinical studies. Latisse is from Allergan, a specialty pharmaceutical company. Approximately 1.5 million kits of Latisse have been sold.
The most common side effects after using Latisse solution are an itching sensation in the eyes and/or eye redness. This was reported in approximately 4% of patients. 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 skin darkening, eye irritation, dryness of the eyes, and redness of the eyelids.
If you develop a new ocular condition (e.g., trauma or 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.
Latisse solution is a once–a–day treatment you apply yourself each evening to the base of the upper eyelashes. DO NOT APPLY in your eye or to the lower lid, because excess hair growth outside the treatment area may occur. Before applying Latisse each night, ensure your face is clean, makeup and contact lenses are removed, and any other facial care products have already been applied.
Remove an applicator from its tray. Then, holding the sterile applicator horizontally, place one drop of Latisse solution on the area of the applicator closest to the tip but not on the tip.
Immediately draw the applicator carefully along the skin at the base of the upper eyelashes (where the eyelashes meet the skin) going from the inner part of your lash line to the outer part. DO NOT APPLY in your eye or to the lower lid because excess hair growth outside the treatment area may occur.
Blot any excess solution beyond the eyelid with a tissue.
Dispose of the applicator after one use. Repeat for opposite eyelid, using a new sterile applicator to help minimize any potential for contamination from one eyelid to another.
Some important dos and don'ts:
- Do not apply to the lower lid or in the eye and blot excess solution with a tissue.
- Only use the sterile applicators supplied with Latisse to apply the product.
- Don't allow the tip of the bottle or applicator to touch fingers or any other unintended surface, as contamination by common bacteria is known to cause infections.
- Remove contact lenses prior to applying Latisse. Contact lenses may be reinserted 15 minutes afterwards.
- Remember, if you stop using Latisse, lashes will gradually return to their previous appearance.
Latisse users may start to see longer lashes at 4 weeks, with full growth at 16 weeks. The growth is gradual over time. If you miss an application, or a few, don't try to catch up. Just apply the Latisse treatment the next evening and stay on schedule. To achieve the full effect of Latisse - longer, fuller, darker lashes - you will need to use the product daily for 16 weeks. After that point, you should talk to your doctor about on-going use.
If you stop using Latisse, your eyelashes are expected to return to their previous appearance over several weeks to months.
The Brilliant Distinctions® Points Program allows you to earn points for each eligible treatment you receive from your physician. These points are redeemable for savings on future treatments, as well as select Allergan® products and ongoing opportunities for other valuable rewards. Please check the program website or ask your physician to learn more about what treatments you can earn points on once you activate into the program.
