Those with small or thin eyelashes in the Addison, Illinois area may find success in achieving thicker, fuller or darker eyelashes through LATISSE®. This is the first prescription treatment that is approved by the FDA for the treatment of small or thin eyelash growth and many have found success through it. The product should be applied regularly on a daily basis to achieve the desired results of the treatment. It is applied at home by the patient using an applicator that should be discarded after every use. Applicators should never be reused.

Researchers believe that results are due to an increase in the percentage of lash development during the lash growth phase, although the mechanism of the product's active ingredient is not known exactly. Reports indicate that roughly 80% of those who use the product report significant increase in the growth or fullness of their lashes. Those considered candidates for LATISSE® include individuals who would like fuller, thicker or darker upper eyelashes. Even those with sensitive eyes have used the product successfully. Those on antibiotics or heart medication or other drugs, and those who have neurological or certain other diseases may not be considered candidates. Those with allergies should discuss their condition before beginning treatment. Pregnant women and those who have skin infections and other conditions on the upper eyelids are not good candidates for treatment. Patients should discuss their candidacy for LATISSE® with a medical professional in Addison before beginning treatment.

The lash growth will last for the duration of the eyelash growth cycle, which is usually around one to two months. Before applying the product, patients should wash their face and remove makeup or creams. They should also remove their contacts before beginning. The applicator must first be prepared by placing a drop of the solution on it and then it may be applied to the base of the upper eyelid where the lash base meets the skin of the eyelid. Excess solution should be blotted off using a dry tissue. A fresh applicator should be used for each lid, discarding each after use. Some patients have reported slight redness or itching after application of the treatment, but these should resolve as the body becomes accustomed to the product. The product should not be applied to the eye, but if a little of the solution gets in the eye, it will not harm it.

Results with this treatment are gradual and initial results may begin to appear after four to eight weeks of continued use. Full effects should become evident after 16 weeks of the initial application. The effects of the treatment remain as long as the product is used and it should be applied every day for the first 16 weeks. Many patients may begin a maintenance phase after the first 16 weeks in which they apply the treatment every two to three days to maintain the effect ot he treatment. The recommend dosing instructions calls for continued daily use even after the first 16-week period. Once treatment stops, the lashes may return to pretreatment appearance after four to six weeks.

Learn more about LATISSE® in Addison, Illinois.