Posted by: Skin And Cancer Institute in Uncategorized

If you dream of thicker, longer lashes, you can get a medication from your dermatologist called Latisse that will give you just that. This can replace messy eyelash glue and false lashes, as well as pricey eyelash extensions.

What is Latisse?

Latisse is a medication for glaucoma that has a happy side effect—it makes eyelashes grow longer and thicker than they could on their own.

How Does Latisse Work

Latisse (bimatoprost) makes eyelashes grow. It’s similar to prostaglandin, which is a natural chemical in the body.

How Latisse Was Discovered

Doctors started prescribing bimatoprost to glaucoma patients in 2001. Six to eight weeks later, not only did the medication treat the glaucoma, they noticed that it also made their eyelashes grow.

I’m I a candidate for Latisse?

Latisse is used to treat patients with “inadequate” eyelashes. This often refers to women who’s lashes have thinned with age. But plenty of people feel their lashes are “inadequate,” even if they are still young.

My Eyelashes Are Normal. Now What?

You can still use Latisse if your eyelashes are normal. Many people with normal eyelashes like the extra boost in volume and length that Latisse gives them.

How to Get Latisse

You can get Latisse from your dermatologist at The Skin and Cancer Institute.

How Much Does it Cost?

A 30-day supply of Latisse costs about $120. That’s about $4 a day. Because Latisse is for cosmetic purposes, it is not covered by insurance.

What Does It Look Like

Latisse comes in a tiny bottle and that looks like eye drops. It also comes with a disposable applicator. The liquid is clear.

How to Use Latisse

Each night, put a drop of Latisse on the clean applicator and apply it to the top eyelashes only. You’ll want to start at the inner corner of your eye and paint it across the lash line, just like eyeliner. Throw away the disposable applicator and remember to use a fresh one daily.

Side Effects

  • Redness, dryness, or itching of the eyes.
  • Hair growth on other areas of your skin where the medication touches.
  • Brown discoloration of the Iris
  • Darkening of the skin around the eyelids

What Happens if I Stop Using Latisse

Your eyelashes will go back to their regular growth pattern if you stop using Latisse.