Latisse®

If you are experiencing eyelash thinning, loss, or lightening in color, Latisse is a great solution to reverse these symptoms. When used correctly, Latisse is a proven solution for creating longer, fuller, and darker lashes.

Latisse (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03%) is the only FDA-approved solution for the enhancement of eyelashes. Allergan, the manufacturers of Latisse, created a medicated eye drop in 2001 for the treatment of glaucoma and began to notice that users of the eye drop were experiencing thicker, darker, and longer eyelashes. Seven years later, they introduced Latisse.

Latisse can provide effective results when used under the proper guidance and prescription of a skilled professional. Seeing an eye care professional like Dr. Landes is extremely important when using any products around your eyes.

How Latisse Works

Latisse is prescribed to patients experiencing hypotrichosis – or the loss or reduction of eyelash growth.

Latisse works by:

  1. Increasing the duration of the growth phase of your eyelashes
  2. Increasing the number of eyelashes in the growth phase

Latisse is applied nightly to the base of your upper eyelashes after removing contact lenses and cleaning the area. It may take 16 weeks to get the maximum results, though you may start to experience longer lashes in just four weeks.

Common Side Effects of Latisse

Because Latisse is an ophthalmic solution, it will not damage your eyesight if the solution gets into your eyes. The most common side effects are redness, itching, ocular irritation, or dry eye symptoms, however only 3-4% of users actually experience any of these side effects. Some users may also notice their skin darkening where the product is applied – this is called hyperpigmentation and is reversible with discontinued use.

The most common misconception about the side effects of Latisse is that it can change your eye color from blue or green to brown. Increased iris pigmentation was reported when the same formulation of bimatoprost ophthalmic solution was instilled directly into the eye to treat glaucoma. Although increased iris pigmentation was NOT reported in the initial clinical studies with Latisse, patients should be warned of this potential side effect since it is the same formulation as the drop to treat glaucoma.  Notably, the cases of increased pigmentation in users of the glaucoma drop only involved the brown parts of the iris becoming browner.  No cases of blue or green eyes becoming brown have been reported. None of Dr. Landes’ patients have experienced this side effect.

Without proper instruction, the likelihood of side effects can increase. To reduce the risks of side effects and to ensure you obtain the results you wish to achieve, you should consult an eye care professional.

If you are interested in Latisse for thicker, longer, and darker lashes, contact us to set up a consultation with Dr. Landes at 330.864.3937.