?Patients who may have heard of the cosmetic dermatology product known as LATISSE ® may be wondering about how this treatment is used and what it is commonly used for. Knowing more about how the public uses LATISSE ® can help those who are new to this product to see whether the treatment can be beneficial for their cosmetic dermatology needs.
What is LATISSE ® ?
LATISSE ® is a prescription cosmetic product that is intended for application to the skin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved this product in 2008 based on specific clinical trials. Skilled physicians dispense this product to many patients annually.
Main Uses of LATISSE ®
The single primary use of LATISSE ® is to promote the growth of longer, thicker and fuller eyelashes in patients. LATISSE ® helps treat a condition where individuals do not grow eyelashes in a normal length. This condition is called hypotrichosis, and can be triggered by life events such as menopause.
Longer Lashes
The common use of LATISSE ® often results in longer and thicker lashes. LATISSE ® is applied with a specific applicator directly to the eyelash area. The maker of LATISSE ® , Allergan, specifies that LATISSE ® should only be applied to the eyelash area because of some reported side effects with the treatment. Patients have reported discoloration of the skin, as well as actual changes in the color of the iris, the outer part of the eye around the pupil. LATISSE ® has been known to turn the iris brown. Some individuals contend that the discoloration of the iris is caused by improper application of LATISSE ® into the eye. Others believe that this often permanent side effect is inherent with LATISSE ® use.
Other Uses of Similar Medications
There are no other approved uses of LATISSE ® . However, the active ingredient of LATISSE ® is also used in medications that treat specific eye conditions including glaucoma and ocular hypertension. LATISSE ® is not supposed to be used for medical conditions. Other prescription drugs are made specifically for this purpose.
Safety with LATISSE ®
In addition to the above-mentioned side effects, some patients also report itchiness or eye redness. Others have reported dark circles under the eyes. LATISSE ® should never be applied under the eyes, or on any other skin area than the specific eyelash area of the eyelid, because another side effect can be excessive hair growth in skin areas where LATISSE ® is applied. Medical experts also point out that patients who develop conjunctivitis or allergic reactions, including swelling and inflammation, should talk to their doctors about discontinuing the treatment.
Anyone who is looking at using LATISSE ® to grow longer lashes can talk to their local doctors about the specific risks and benefits of this prescription product. In close consultation with medical professionals, LATISSE ® can be a way for individuals to improve eyelash appearance without excessive mascara or false lashes. With education on appropriate and safe application, some doctors are confident in approving LATISSE ® treatment for patients. Take a look at all of the reported pros and cons of this product to evaluate whether it is right for your existing conditions.
