For centuries, women have sought to enhance the length and thickness of their eyelashes. Naturally, eyelashes are meant to protect the eyes from debris and prevent things from getting dangerously close to the eye. However, as people applied materials like kohl, a mixture of soot and other mineral ingredients, they realized it enhanced the look of their eyes. Darkening and lengthening lashes with kohl soon became a sign of femininity.
Varying methods of eyelash enhancement continued through the ages, and by the 20th century, women were using mascara, eyelash curlers, and false lashes to enhance their eyes. Surgical enhancement was also used to lengthen and thicken the lashes and add depth to the eyes. More recently, methods have been discovered for lengthening, darkening, and thickening lashes that are medically approved and effective.
Latisse, a product originally intended for use as a glaucoma medication, is the first and only prescription strength treatment that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The active ingredient is Bimatoprost, a chemical found in glaucoma medication that increases the release of fluid from the eyes. This reduces the pressure in the eye, and research indicates it also lengthens the anagen, or growth, phase. This means eyelashes experience a prolonged period of growth, giving them more time to lengthen and thicken. The product was developed by the Allergan company, the same company responsible for the development and distribution of Juvederm.
Paula Gilmartin, regional manager and aesthetic nurse trainer at Dermalounge, a medical spa in California, says that patients need to apply the gel to their eyes for 12 to 16 weeks on the nightly basis. Full results are typically seen within three months, but the growth phase will return to normal if a user stops applying Latisse. Users are encouraged to time their use to correlate with upcoming special events in their life, especially if they do not intend to use the product long-term. For instance, a bride should consider starting Latisse about four months prior to her wedding to ensure complete results, and to be sure she will not experience side effects with application.
There are a number of benefits to choosing Latisse over other methods of enhancing your lashes. Most women use mascara, and are pleased with the results. However, cleaning mascara off the lashes at the end of the day can be time-consuming, and can also damage and thin the lashes over time. Mascara wands must also be replaced about every four months, and daily use can get costly over time. Mascara may also not be that effective for women whose lashes are extremely thin and light to begin with. A woman undergoing chemotherapy may find mascara is not a thickening option because her lashes are extremely sparse. False lashes are another option, but they can be uncomfortable and difficult to apply. Using Latisse will enhance lashes to the point you may find mascara, false lashes, and curlers unnecessary.
Risks of using Latisse are relatively minimal. There is a chance eyelashes may grow in varying thicknesses, or darker or lighter in shade. There is also a chance lashes can grow in crooked, and brown pigment in the eye may darken. The gel application may cause itching, redness, eye irritation, and dryness. Certain people have experienced a skin discoloration on their eyelids or other areas where Latisse is applied. It is also important to keep in mind that Latisse will grow hair on any skin it touches. If you accidentally smears the gel into areas around the eyes, you will need to wipe it with a tissue. Speak with your doctor or dermatologist prior to application if this is a concern of yours.
It is important to stop application if you experience eye trauma or infection unrelated to the product. If you have a sudden decrease in vision or you contract conjunctivitis (pink eye), or you have an eyelid reaction, stop using the product until you have consulted your doctor. These conditions are more than likely not affiliated with Latisse, but the gel may irritate the existing problem. Those who contract conjunctivitis while using Latisse will need to replace their current wand prior to restarting applications. Finally, if you find you are in need of ocular surgery, you need to postpone use of Latisse until you have received clearance for use from your doctor.
Latisse can be prescribed by your doctor, but more than likely you will want to speak to a dermatologist or visit a medical spa. Nonprescription eyelash enhancement treatments are on the market, but Latisse is the only substance guaranteed to work. If you currently undergo aesthetic skin treatments at a medical spa, you can speak with a clinician at your usual location. Those in the San Francisco area can visit Dermalounge for a free consultation concerning use of Latisse, as well as other skincare technologies. The clinic is owned by a licensed California physician, and they offer effective and professional treatments in a spa-like environment.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
