Latisse® is a breakthrough treatment to enhance eyelash prominence by increasing length, thickness, and darkness. Available only through prescription, Latisse is a once-daily treatment applied to the base of the upper eyelashes. Patients using Latisse can expect to experience longer, fuller, and darker eyelashes in as little as four weeks, with full results in sixteen weeks.
Latisse is the first and only FDA approved treatment for hypotrichosis of the eyelashes. Hypotrichosis is another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes. This condition is usually present at birth and may involve abnormal hair growth in several areas of the body. Latisse can also provide successful results for any patient seeking improvements to their eyelashes for aesthetic results.
If you want longer, fuller, and darker eyelashes, you are most likely a candidate for Latisse. Not everyone, however, may be right for the treatment. Dr. Alexander will evaluate your medical history to determine if you are a good candidate. You should not use Latisse if you have an active eye condition, such as an eye infection, or have broken or irritated skin on your eyelid. If you are using products for elevated intraocular pressure (glaucoma), you should use Latisse only after consulting with Dr. Alexander.
Utilizing his advanced knowledge and expertise of comprehensive skin care, Dr. Alexander takes the time to address all of these potential concerns with you during your appointment to ensure that you receive safe, quality care from a doctor you trust.
Latisse causes eyelashes to grow because of its active ingredient: bimatoprost. Although the precise mechanism of action is not known, research suggests that the growth of eyelashes occurs by increasing the percent of hairs in the anagen (or growth) phase. Eyelashes can grow longer, thicker, and darker because bimatoprost can also increase the duration of this growth phase.
Latisse does not replace mascara, as it creates lashes that are actually longer and darker, instead of just appearing to be so. Mascara can be used as a nice complement to Latisse in order to further enhance your lashes and create a fuller, more attractive look.
To obtain the best results for your eyelashes, Latisse should be applied routinely with consistency and precision. It is important to apply the medication each night, as part of your daily routine. Latisse should be applied after makeup and contact lenses are removed, and other skincare products have already been applied.
Latisse is applied with a disposable applicator that is coated in one drop of the solution and then applied to the skin at the base of the upper eyelashes, similar to how liquid eyeliner is applied. It is important to blot any excess solution from the area in order to prevent it from spreading to other areas. Each Latisse applicator should only be used once to prevent any contamination or infection. If you miss an application one night, you should not try to catch up. Simply stay on schedule and continue to apply Latisse each night.
Dr. Alexander will provide you with specific instructions about applying Latisse and will show you how it is done in the office.
For most patients, results become noticeable after four weeks of treatment with Latisse. Full results are usually visible after 16 weeks. Patients can track the progress of their results through regular photographs. Common side effects after using Latisse are eye itching or eye redness. Less common side effects after using Latisse include skin darkening and darkening of the iris, (which may be permanent), eye irritation, dryness or redness of the eyelids. It is important for patients to notify Dr. Alexander if they experience any side effects from Latisse.