WHAT IS LATISSE®?
Latisse® is a 0.03% bimatoprost ophthalmic solution approved for the treatment of hypotrichosis — a condition in which the eyelashes are inadequate. Latisse® is proven to stimulate the eyelashes so they may grow longer, fuller, and darker. Latisse® does require patience, but the results are worth it. The effects of Latisse® start to become visible after roughly four weeks of treatment, and optimal results are visible after 16 weeks. After maximum results have been achieved, the only way to keep your new, full lashes is to continue using Latisse®. If you decide to stop using Latisse®, your lashes will eventually return to their prior state.
HOW IS LATISSE® APPLIED AND USED?
Growing longer, thicker, darker eyelashes with Latisse® is as easy as following a few careful steps every night before going to bed. Before applying your Latisse® solution, remove all makeup, wash your face, and remove your contact lenses. Be sure to only use the FDA-approved sterile applicators that come with your Latisse® solution, and do not reuse applicators. When holding, opening, or using Latisse®, make sure the tip of the bottle and the applicator do not touch your fingers or any other surfaces except as directed.
Apply Latisse® solution to the base of the upper eyelashes only. By adhering to proper application techniques, you will begin to see new eyelash growth after about four weeks of use. If you wear contact lenses, wait 15 minutes between applying Latisse® and reinserting your lenses to minimize side effects and the risk for bacterial infections.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS AND RISKS OF LATISSE®?
Although Latisse® is associated with great benefits for eyelash growth, there are a few side effects. The most common side effects are itching or redness of the eyes. Less common side effects may include darkening of the skin around the eyes, eye dryness, and eye irritation. Usually these side effects occur as a result of having Latisse® solution come in contact with the affected areas. If you experience skin darkening, it may take up to several weeks for the condition to reverse itself and for your skin to return to normal. Although cases such as these are extremely rare, call Silverstein Eye Centers immediately for evaluation if you experience any vision disturbances or sudden changes in your visual acuity.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS WITH LATISSE®
To have a successful experience with Latisse®, be sure to make application a regular part of your nightly routine and store it near your skincare products so it is always within reach. If you miss an application, don’t fret — you can just start again tomorrow. Extra applications or doubling up on applications of Latisse® will not increase eyelash growth. Make sure you do not miss too many applications, as ceasing Latisse® treatment will cause your eyelashes to return to their previous state.
Many patients find it helpful to chart their progress on a calendar so you will be motivated as you come closer and closer to seeing growth and fullness in your lashes. You should expect to see some lengthening of your lashes after four weeks, and by the eight-week mark, you may see increased fullness and darker lashes. By week 16, you should achieve the maximum, full, dramatic results you are after, and after 16 weeks, you may want to talk to your doctor about continuing Latisse®. To maintain your results, you will need to use Latisse® long-term.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
To learn more about Latisse® and how it might help you, call Silverstein Eye Centers today at (816) 358-3600 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon.