In 2021, it is not uncommon to want longer, thicker, darker, and more luscious eyelashes. Sometimes, extensions or glue-ons can be expensive or just a big hassle to deal with, and that’s where growth serums like Latisse come in.

 

Latisse offers women around the country the opportunity to boost their self-confidence without the potential risks of eyelash extensions or glue-ons. But before you go ahead and use it, make sure you know all the facts! Let’s explore:

 

What is Latisse and does it help grow thicker eyelashes?

 

Yes, Latisse is an eyelash growth serum that helps you achieve a more aesthetic fullness to your lashes, but it didn’t start out that way.

 

Latisse is actually the medication bimatoprost, which was originally used to treat glaucoma under the brand name Lumigan as eye drops. Once it was found that Lumigan led to an unexpected side effect – eyelash growth – Latisse was then created and marketed for those who want fuller, longer lashes.

 

Latisse is classified as a cosmetic medication that is FDA-approved in treating hypotrichosis (sparse eyelashes), and it must be prescribed by a doctor for treatment. However, Latisse is easy to acquire after a quick consultation with your doctor, who will also explain all the potential side effects.

 

What are the potential side effects of Latisse?

 

Latisse is meant to be regularly applied to the upper eyelid for maximized eyelash growth, but is not meant to be applied to the lower eyelid. With consistent use for at least two months, you will have optimal results in eyelash thickness and growth.

 

However, there are some risks to look out for. Potential side effects of Latisse include:

 

• Redness of the thin tissue over the white part of the eye (conjunctiva)
• Darkened eyelids
• Dry eyes
• Darkened brown pigmentation in the colored part of the eye (iris)
• Itchy, red eyes
• Hair growth around the eyes if the medication regularly runs or drips off the eyelids

 

Although darkened eyelids might fade when the medication is stopped, any changes in iris color are likely to be permanent. If you stop applying Latisse, your eyelashes may go back to what they looked like before.

 

Who can benefit from Latisse?

 

Many people who have shorter eyelashes want longer ones, and without them, they can often feel insecure. Instead of resorting to eyelash extensions or other tricks, people can benefit more with the natural results of Latisse. These people include:

 

• Those with genetically thinner or paler lashes.
• People with medical conditions that affect the eyes, eyelids, and eyelashes, leading to hair loss.
• People who have lost their hair due to an injury.
• Those who lost their hair due to radiation or chemotherapy during cancer treatment.

 

Key takeaways:

 

Since Latisse does not treat serious eye conditions, it’s unlikely that your health or vision insurance will cover it. Unless you are treating alopecia of the eyelids (a rare condition), you may have to pay out of pocket monthly, and wait patiently for results to show. It’s important to keep using it regularly if you want to maintain results.

 

If you’re curious about how Latisse can affect your eyelashes, or you’re concerned about any potential side effects, don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye doctor. As an eye doctor myself, your confidence is just as important as your health!