FDA Approves New Eyelash Enhancing Treatment

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Latisse, a new topical treatment to increase length, thickness, and darkness of eyelashes.

Available only by prescription, Latisse is applied to the base of the upper eyelashes with a sterile applicator, typically after makeup removal. Users should see a difference after 8 weeks of treatment, but full results are apparent after 16 weeks. The effect is maintained as long as you continue to use the product. Lashes will gradually return to their untreated state if Latisse is discontinued.

The active ingredient in Latisse is one that was originally used to lower eye pressure in people with certain types of glaucoma, and the side effect of the drug was eyelash growth.  The safety of the ingredient has been confirmed by clinical trials and more than 13 years of use.

Negative side effects are typically mild and include eyelid irritation and redness.  These can easily be resolved by discontinuation of the treatment.