LATISSE® is the first and only FDA approved treatment for hypotrichosis of the eyelashes. Hypotrichosis is another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes. LATISSE® is a breakthrough treatment to enhance eyelash prominence by increasing length, thickness, and darkness.
Available only through prescription, LATISSE® is a once-daily treatment applied to the base of the upper eyelashes. Patients using LATISSE® can expect to experience longer, fuller, and darker eyelashes in as little as four weeks, with full results in sixteen weeks.
How LATISSE® Works
LATISSE® causes eyelashes to grow because of its active ingredient: bimatoprost. Although the precise mechanism of action is not known, research suggests that the growth of eyelashes occurs by increasing the percent of hairs in the anagen (or growth) phase. Eyelashes can grow longer, thicker, and darker because bimatoprost can also increase the duration of this growth phase.
LATISSE® does not replace mascara, as it creates lashes that are actually longer and darker, instead of just appearing to be so. Mascara can be used as a nice complement to LATISSE® in order to further enhance your lashes and create a fuller, more attractive look.
Using LATISSE®
To obtain the best results for your eyelashes, LATISSE® should be applied routinely with consistency and precision. It is important to apply the medication each night, as part of your daily routine. LATISSE® should be applied after makeup and contact lenses are removed, and other skincare products have already been applied.
LATISSE® is applied with a disposable applicator that is coated in one drop of the solution and then applied to the skin at the base of the upper eyelashes, similar to how liquid eyeliner is applied. It is important to blot any excess solution from the area in order to prevent it from spreading to other areas. Each LATISSE® applicator should only be used once to prevent any contamination or infection. If you miss an application one night, you should not try to catch up. Simply stay on schedule and continue to apply LATISSE® each night.
Candidates for LATISSE®
If you want longer, fuller, and darker eyelashes, you are most likely a candidate for LATISSE®. Not everyone, however, may be right for the treatment. Your doctor will evaluate your medical history to determine if you are a good candidate. You should not use LATISSE® if you have an active eye condition, such as an eye infection, or have broken or irritated skin on your eyelid. If you are using products for elevated intraocular pressure, you should use LATISSE® only after consulting with your doctor.
Side Effects of LATISSE®
Although rare, the most common side effects of using LATISSE® are an itching sensation in the eyes and/or redness of the eyes. This was reported in approximately 4% of patients. LATISSE® may also cause other less common side effects which generally occur on the skin close to where LATISSE® is applied, or in the eyes. These include skin darkening, redness of the eyelids, eye irritation, and dryness of the eyes. These symptoms typically resolve after discontinuing LATISSE®. Contact your doctor immediately if you have any unusual side effects.
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