Latisse

Latisse is FDA-approved to treat thin eyelashes.  There are patients who use the product on the eyebrows; however, it is not an FDA-approved use of the product.

Latisse has its origins in a glaucoma medication called Lumigan. Lumigan is directly applied inside the eye. When using Lumigan directly applied to the eye, there is potential for change in color of the iris of the eye. Latisse is not applied inside the eye. Latisse is applied with a brush to the upper eyelashes. Since it does not get into the eye, the likelihood of discoloration to the iris is low. In fact, this complication was not reported in clinical studies with Latisse patients.

When used properly, the risk of Latisse changing the color of your eye is extremely rare. In fact, the data regarding potential for eye color change is from studies of prostaglandin-type medication used directly in the eye for treatment of glaucoma. Latisse, which is a product of Allergan, is the same glaucoma medication that Allergan makes under the name Lumigan.

Again, to reiterate, Latisse is NOT to be used in the eye and, when used properly, the risk of eye color change is extremely rare.

Latisse is a once-a-day medication applied to the upper eyelashes to increase eyelash length and make the eyelashes look darker and thicker. It takes approximately 8 weeks to appreciate the results achieved from Latisse.

Posted by Rami K. Batniji, M.D., F.A.C.S.