What is LATISSE®?

Latisse® is a treatment approved by the FDA since 2008, used to compensate for the lack of eyelashes and to increase lash growth, length, thickness or tint.

A glaucoma medication

Latisse® is based on Allergan ‘s Lumigan, a drug used to treat glaucoma of the eye. The main symptom of glaucoma is an increase in IOP (intra-ocular pressure). Lumigan was initially applied in the form of eye drops, but patients reported that the side-effects of this treatment included a stimulation of eyelash growth and darkening of the eyelashes.

An innovative product for lashes

LATISSE®is an innovative product available since the first quarter of 2009 in the United States for the treatment ofeyelash lengthening. Used under prescription only, this drug called Latisse® solution ophtalmologique bimatoprost 0.03% from Allergan, is used in the treatment of hypotrichosis of the eyelashes, a condition resulting in a scarcity or sometimes even a lack of eyelashes.

Latisse® solution works in two ways to stimulate lash growth:

• 1 – By increasing the lash’s lifespan, the growth phase (anagen phase),
• 2 – By also providing the ingredients needed to stimulate lash growth during this phase.

What we do know is that in clinical trials, most people noticed a change in their lashes in around 4 to 8 weeks. At 16 weeks, 78% of patients saw a significant increase in lash length, thickness and darkness.

What does the eyelash growth treatment involve?

Daily treatment is performed at the base of the eyelash on the upper eyelid with an applicator, so results are gradually visible from 8 weeks onwards, with the final result achieved by 16 weeks. The effect of the treatment can last up to 5 months (average lifespan of the eyelash) if the treatment is interrupted. To maintain the effect, we therefore recommend continuing treatment.

Every evening, before going to bed, remove all make-up from around your eyes, take out your contact lenses, wash your face thoroughly, and once your eyelids are dry, you can apply Latisse® solution. Simply apply a drop of solution to the sterile applicator brush, then apply to the upper eyelid in a single stroke. The product will go down the lashes of the lower eyelid by itself, simply by closing your eyes.

The applicators supplied are sterile and therefore single-use for one eye only. Change the applicator for the other eye, to avoid any risk of contamination from one eye to the other. The product is packaged in sterile dosettes, which should not be placed in direct contact with the outside environment, fingers or any other surface during use, to prevent eye infections. Each box of Latisse comes with 60 disposable applicators.

Who can benefit from an eyelash treatment?

Latisse® eyelash treatment is recommended for people suffering from hypotrichosis, i.e. reduced development of the hair system or irregular hair growth. You can take the treatment if you wish to lengthen, thicken or darken your eyelashes. It can also be prescribed for women who have lost their eyelashes after chemotherapy.

However, there are certain precautions you should take before starting treatment. Avoid taking the treatment if you have no visible eyelashes, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or intend to do so, or if you have an eye infection.

If you find that your lashes are too short, too thin or too light, contact Dr Hayot, an ophthalmologist specializing in eye rejuvenation.