You may have heard that it is not recommended to use Latisse on lower lashes even though Latisse is an FDA-approved, topical medication that helps to grow thicker, longer, and darker eyelashes. Why do dermatologists recommend against using Latisse on lower lashes? We’ll dig into that in a bit, but first, let’s learn more about what Latisse is and how it works.
What is Latisse and How Does it Work?
Latisse, originally known as Lumigan, was originally intended to be used as an eye drop to treat glaucoma. While patients were using Lumigan to treat their glaucoma, they realized that their eyelashes were becoming thicker and longer. Researchers reformulated Lumigan into Latisse and conducted trials to see how well Lumigan worked at thickening and lengthening eyelashes for people with hypotrichosis. It was found to be effective and safe, and Latisse was introduced to the general population. Latisse is now used on patients who qualify as good candidates to lengthen and thicken eyelashes in 8-16 weeks.
So, how does Latisse work? Latisse is a liquid solution that contains bimatoprost, which was approved by the FDA in 2008 as an eyelash growth medication. Scientific data suggests that Latisse works by causing eyelashes to spend more time in the growth phase of the hair cycle. This allows your eyelashes to grow to a new length and thickness.
Can Latisse Be Used on Lower Lashes?
Dermatologists do not recommend using Latisse on lower lashes. Applying Latisse to areas beyond the upper lash line may cause excess hair growth in unwanted areas. For best results, Latisse should only be applied to your upper lash line.
Does Latisse Make Lashes Thicker or Just Longer?
Latisse makes lashes thicker and longer. Some people see a difference in four weeks, but full growth can be seen at 16 weeks. Clinical trials have shown a 25% increase in lash length, 106% increase in lash thickness, and 18% increase in lash darkness. To obtain the best results, Latisse should be used once daily for 16 weeks. Using Latisse more than once a day will not help your lashes grow thicker or longer more quickly.
How Do You Apply Latisse?
Latisse comes with sterile applicators that you use to dab one drop of Latisse on the upper lash line each night. As you blink, Latisse is distributed to your lower lash line. However, as we mentioned above, do not directly apply Latisse on lower lashes as it may cause excess hair growth outside of the treatment area. Once you have applied Latisse, blot any excess liquid from the eyelid and dispose of the applicator. A new applicator should be used for each application.
Is Latisse Safe?
Yes, Latisse is safe. As with any medications, there are possible side effects. These include excess hair growth, an itching sensation in the eyes, or eye redness. Less common side effects include skin darkening, eye irritation, dry eyes, and redness of the eyelids. If a new ocular condition, such as trauma or infection, occurs, speak with your dermatologist immediately about continuing to use Latisse.
You can find more answers to frequently asked questions about using Latisse via Latisse’s official website. You can contact our offices to discuss Latisse or other cosmetic dermatology procedures available through Vujevich Dermatologist Associates. Vujevich Dermatology Associates offers medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology from some of the most highly trained physicians and clinicians in the greater Pittsburgh area. You can reach our team at 412-429-2570 or visit our contact page to see all of our locations. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.