Latisse: The Lash-Growth Drug. Top Questions, Answered - StyleList

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Latisse: The Lash-Growth Drug. Top Questions, Answered

Posted Jan 15th 2009 at 7:30PM by Laura Kenney (Subscribe to Laura Kenney's posts)

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Would you pay $4 per day for longer, lusher lashes? Well, it is cheaper than a cup of (Starbucks) coffee....

Yesterday, we reported on Latisse (our new lash obesession), the first FDA-approved lash-enhancer that's clinically proven to give lashes 25 percent longer, 106 percent thicker and 18 percent darker after 16 weeks of use. Today, we talked to the company to answer some of our (and your) most pressing questions. And they gave us this rather stunning before and after shot, along with a product shot (after the jump).

What we learned: There's actually a real name for "inadequate eyelashes." Hypotrichosis is yet another condition to add to our hypochondriac laundry list. The full fringe-tastical Q&A is after the jump.

Q: What exactly does Latisse do?
A: It treats hypotrichosis (another name for inadequate eyelashes) by enhancing eyelash prominence as measured by increases in the length, thickness, and darkness of the eyelashes, and is approved by the FDA.

Q: How long can I use Latisse?
A: According to Allergan, the makers of Latisse, (see their newly launched website for more information, www.latisse.com) each prescription lasts 30 days, and there is no recommended stop time. The "peak effect" comes at roughly four months of use. Speak to your prescribing doctor about the length of treatment that's right for you.

Q: Will my lashes stay longer forever?
A: After you stop using the drug they will slowly go back to normal with your next eyelash growth cycle (this varies from person to person but is between a few weeks to a couple months).

Q: Which types of doctors can prescribe Latisse; is it only eye doctors?
A: No. In most states your regular doctor can prescribe it. Eye doctors, dermatologists, and plastic surgeons are other options. Also, there is a "Find A Doctor" locator tool on the Latisse site.

Q: How long before I start to see results?
A: Eight weeks, with peak results around four months.

Q: Can I use Latisse if I've had Lasik or wear contacts?
A: These are questions for your doctor. You should not use Latisse if you have an active eye condition, including an eye infection, or have broken or irritated skin on your eyelid. And if you are using products for elevated intraocular pressure, be sure to discuss this with your doctor. Contact lenses should be removed prior to use of Latisee and may be reinserted 15 minutes following its application.

Q: I've heard of a side effect that turns light irises dark. Is this true?
A: Good question. Latisse is an offshoot of another drug called Lumigen, which is used for glaucoma. Latisse shares the same active ingredient as Lumigen, although, according to the company that makes both, Latisse has only 5% of that ingredient and is applied only to the eyelid, not into the eye itself. Iris pigmentation was not reported for Latisse, but in less than 1% of Lumigan users, permanent brown iris pigmentation was reported. For other possible side effects, go to www.latisse.com and speak with your doctor.

- Melissa Foss

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