Health Network News

Finally there is a way to grow your own eyelashes, naturally. A new drug called Latisse has been introduced to solve this age-old problem. Made by the Allergan company, this drug is clinically proven to grow longer and thicker lashes. Not like some eyelash conditioners!

Latisse is applied to the upper eyelid only. Using eye drops, results were seen after 8 weeks of application, with full growth after 16 weeks. Eyelashes grew 25% longer, 106% thicker and 18% darker. Try that using mascara!

In the clinical study 140 members out of 280, used Latisse for 16 weeks. Applied to the upper eyelid only, Latisse was well tolerated by the group. Latisse is not recommended for use on the lower eyelashes.

Latisse will cost about $120.00 for a 30 day supply. Medical insurance will not cover this drug for cosmetic purposes. Though a medical condition such as hypotrichosis would be covered. Hypotrichosis is when there is an unusually low amount of hair on the head or body.

There are some side effects noted during the study. 3.6% of the participates experienced eye itching. There is some concern that permanent darkening of the iris could occur. Green and Hazel eyes are at risk for this side effect. In the study no one reported darkening of the iris. The upper eyelid could also possibly be affected by becoming darker, when using these eye drops.

Allergan is the company introduced Botox to the world. While developing a drug for glaucoma, called Lumigan, researchers found the group using the new drug had dramatic growth of their eyelashes. The active ingredient identified to cause eyelash growth is called Bimatoprost. Allergan then created Latisse to take advantage of this effect. Some those who used Lumigan experienced a darkening of their iris and eyelids. Because Latisse uses 5% of this active ingredient, applied to the eye lash and not in the eye, these side effects are not expected. Lumigan is placed into the eye.

Lashes normally last about 4 to 5 months. When you stop using the drug, your eye lashes will gradually return to their normal length as old follicles fall out and new ones grow in.

It is now possible to actually eyelash growth using this FDA approved drug! No need for eyelash extensions or false eyelashes.