Latisse® eyelash enhancer is the first and only U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved cosmetic treatment for increasing the length, thickness and darkness of eyelashes. Available only through prescription, it is applied once a day to the base of the upper eyelashes. Results may be apparent within four weeks; full results take sixteen weeks. Once Latisse® treatment is discontinued, the benefits gradually end.
Application
Latisse® solution is applied at night. Contact lenses and makeup are removed; skincare products are applied before using the Latisse® solution. To prevent contamination, the Latisse® solution is applied with a single-use disposable applicator. The applicator, which is coated with one drop of solution, is applied to the base of the upper eyelid at the lash line. The applicator is moved from the inside of the lash line to the outside. Excess solution is blotted to prevent its spreading to other areas. A separate applicator is used for each eye. If contact lenses were removed, they can be put back in 15 minutes after Latisse® treatment.
Candidates
Anyone who wants longer, fuller and darker eyelashes may be a candidate for Latisse® treatment. Individuals who have eye infections, broken or irritated skin on their eyelids, or who use products for elevated intraocular pressure should not undergo Latisse® treatment. Full medical history is taken prior to the start of Latisse® treatment.
Side Effects
The common side effects of Latisse® treatment include the following:
- Eye itchiness
- Eye redness
- Skin darkening
- Eyelid redness
- Eye irritation
- Eye dryness
According to the manufacturer’s website, Latisse® treatment may cause increased brown iris pigmentation of the colored part of the eye which is likely to be permanent, although the occurrence is very infrequent.