LATISSE: Risks and Results

Since the ancient Egyptians used a soot based formula called kohl to darken royal eyelids and lashes some 6000 years ago, the quest for bigger, brighter and more radiant looking eyes has been the perennial pursuit of beauty mavens up to our present times. After all, the eyes are said to be the windows to the soul, and most of us would agree that sexy, sparkling, appealing eyes are a sign of health and vitality. Today women spend a considerable amount of time and money on cosmetics that draw attention to the eyes and enhance their appearance. But what if longer, lusher, darker eyelashes could be grown naturally, eliminating the need to bulk up with several applications of mascara, or pasting on false lashes or extensions? LATISSE ® , or bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03%, is the only FDA approved pharmaceutical on the market today intended for the treatment of hypotrichosis of the eyelashes (reduced or absent hair growth). The solution, available by prescription only, was developed by Allergan, Inc., and has undergone extensive testing in controlled clinical trials. It promises safe, effective and dramatic improvement in the growth, length and thickness of eyelashes. The results are not achieved overnight, but by applying a drop of this formula once nightly to each rim of the eyelid over a sixteen week period, significant growth and thickness of the lash is likely to be realized. Tests indicate a 78% success rate among participants, and the effects can be dramatically transformative. LATISSE ® should not be used when taking prescriptions for lowering eye pressure, or if there is a history of eye pressure complications, unless under close medical supervision. Over time, the solution may cause the skin of the eyelid to darken which may be reversible after discontinued use. Though it is not intended to have any direct contact with the eye, darkening of the iris may occur which can be permanent. LATISSE ® should be applied carefully with the included disposable applicators since hair growth may occur on skin that comes into frequent contact with the solution. Itching or redness of the eye may be experienced as a side effect when using this product. LATISSE ® offers a unique option for individuals seeking to enhance their natural eyelashes, though the risks associated with this product should be taken into consideration before the treatment process is begun. Consult a qualified Latisse provider for more information about LATISSE ® .