Longer, Darker, Thicker Natural Eyelashes

By George Bitar, MD

Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute

. http://www.bitarinstitute.com

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Longer, Darker, Thicker Natural Eyelashes

In December 2008, the FDA approved Latisse, the first drug approved to promote eyelash growth, making them longer, thicker and darker. It is available only by prescription and contains the active ingredient of the glaucoma drug, Lumigan.

Allergan, the company that manufactures Latisse, states that “users can expect to experience longer, fuller and darker lashes in as little as eight weeks, with full results expected in 16 weeks. If it is stopped, eyelashes will gradually return to their previous appearance as new lashes grow in.”

So How Does This All Work?

Latisse is believed to affect the growth 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. It works from the inside out so as your treatment progresses, you will see gradual changes in the length, thickness and darkness. It is applied at night directly to the upper lash line using a sterile, disposable applicator provided in the kit.

Is Latisse Safe?

Clinical trials on safety were performed by the manufacturer and approved by the FDA. Please consult with your doctor regarding any questions on trial results. Side effects were reported in 4% of users, with the most common being eye itching and redness.

Some users found that these irritations went away as they became accustomed to the product or began applying it properly.