In December, 2008, the FDA approved an exciting product for improving the eyelashes. It is called Latisse, and is approved for treating hypotrichosis, the condition of having sparse eyelashes. At Horizon Eye Care we are now offering Latisse as a cosmetic enhancer for the eyes. If you have been wishing for longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes, you now have a safe and effective option with Latisse.
How Latisse Works Hair, whether on the head, the legs, or the eyelids, has a three-phase cycle. Not all hairs are in the same phase at the same time. Latisse works by lengthening the growth phase, and by increasing the number of hairs that grow in that phase. The growth phase is followed by a transition phase and then by a dormant phase.
To affect all the eyelashes, Latisse must be used daily for four months. You will notice a difference after one month, and further progress after each month up to four. By the end of the fourth month your eyelashes will be dramatically longer, darker, and thicker.
How to Use Latisse It is best to use it at night. When you clean your face, make sure to remove all eye makeup thoroughly. If you use a makeup remover that leaves some oily residue, use soap and water to gently remove that residue. You need to have completely clean eyelids, so that Latisse will be fully absorbed into the skin.
Latisse is available in a kit which includes a supply of sterile, disposable applicators. A separate applicator is used for each eye. To apply Latisse, place one drop in the applicator and draw it along the upper eyelid where the lashes grow. The movement is similar to applying eyeliner. You can blot any excess to prevent it from getting into your eyes. Do not use it on the lower eyelid, because the FDA testing did not include this, and possible risks could include darkening of the skin under the eyes. Further testing is planned.
While you sleep, the Latisse will be absorbed by the eyelid skin, down into the skin’s middle layer. This is the dermis, containing the eyelash hair follicles (roots).
Two Minor Side Effects At first you may have some itching and redness. Those two conditions will usually disappear within days although in some cases they last for several weeks. They do not indicate that you have an allergy to Latisse, nor that your eyes are in any way harmed. Some people also have some dryness in the eyes, but this side effect is rare.
If you use Latisse according to the directions, it is safe and very effective. You will be amazed at the difference in your appearance when your eyelashes are thicker, longer, and darker.
Contraindications Latisse may not be used in patients with glaucoma.
To learn more, please contact our eye doctors today and we will be happy to schedule a personal consultation for you.
