Latisse

Our eyes are one of our most defining features, but many of us are unhappy with them for one major reason – our lashes. Lashes are not only a practical feature, but a cosmetic one. Unfortunately, we have not all been blessed with long, curly, dark and luscious lashes that frame our face. In fact, many of us feel that our lashes are a little lacklustre and are missing the fullness and definition that they can bring. Thankfully, there is now a solution – Latisse.
Latisse is a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis (shorter, thinner, less or otherwise inadequate eyelashes) that can support your lashes to grow longer, darker and fuller than before. It is the only product of its kind to be FDA-approved.
 

How does Latisse work?

It is believed that Latisse works by increasing the length of the anagen phase of your eyelash hair cycle, which is the growth phase. This means that your eyelashes grow for longer, giving them chance to thicken and lengthen. 
 

Why do I need a prescription for Latisse?

Latisse is only available on prescription to ensure that it is only used by people who suffer from hypotrichosis, and so that your doctor can monitor your treatment.

How do I use Latisse?

Latisse is a home-application treatment. After removing your makeup and any contact lenses you may be wearing, you apply one drop of the solution to the base of your upper eyelashes every evening using the single-use applicator brush. It should not be used on the lower lashes as this can lead to excessive hair growth outside of the treatment area. 
For the best results, Latisse should be applied once a day for 16 weeks. Using Latisse more frequently will not yield any faster or better results.
 

Are there any side effects?

The most common side effect reported as a result of Latisse use is itching or redness of the eyes. However, this was only reported in around 4% of the patients in Latisse’s own clinical study. 
Other side effects that sometimes occur on the skin close to where Latisse has been applied include irritation, darkening of the skin, dryness of the eyes and redness of the eyelids. If you experience an change in your vision after using Latisse, you should immediately seek the advice of your optometrist. 
 

How quickly can I expect to see results?

Luscious lashes don’t happen overnight, even with Latisse. Growth is gradual and individual results may vary. However, most people who have used Latisse have noticed longer lashes around 4 to 5 weeks after starting treatment, with optimum results visible around the 4-month mark. 
Once you stop using Latisse your eyelashes will eventually start to regress to their original state, but your optometrist will be able to speak to you about a maintenance plan.
 

How much does Latisse cost?

One Latisse kit costs approximately $120 and includes one bottle and 30 single-use applicators. This price does vary depending on your supplier.