Our eyes are one of our most defining facial features, yet 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 lackluster, missing fullness and definition. Thankfully, there is now a solution – Latisse.
Latisse is a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis (shorter, thinner or otherwise inadequate eyelashes) that can help your lashes to grow longer, darker, and fuller than before and is the only product of its kind to be FDA-approved.
 

How does Latisse work?

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 periods of time, giving them the chance to thicken and lengthen. 
 

Why do I need a prescription for Latisse?

Latisse is only available by 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 any makeup and 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 any more frequently than that 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 clinical study. 
Other side effects that sometimes occur include redness of the eyelids, darkening of the skin, dryness of the eyes and irritation on the skin close to where Latisse has been applied. If you experience a 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, however, 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 which includes one bottle and 30 single-use applicators. This price can vary depending on your supplier.