Does Latisse Really Work?

Dr. Irwin
March 13, 2009

 

My Tip is a bit late this week because I have been at the American Academy of Dermatology Conference in San Francisco.  More on that in later Tips and Blogs.

So, does eyelash growth product Latisse really work?

Don’t you love marketing departments? Some of the info on Latisse says "a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis" which makes it sound like having the genetic tendency to short, stubby eyelashes is a DISEASE.  Since hypotrichosis is medicalese for just that – short, stubby eyelashes.

But, to answer the question YES, Latisse does work! Bimatoprost was a prescription eyedrop used to treat glaucoma, when patients and doctors noticed its beneficial effect on eyelashes. Then Jan Marini put it (without the FDA approval needed for a prescription drug) into an over-the-counter product called Age Intervention Eyelash Conditioner. This product is gone now because Allergan rightfully complained not only about the danger to certain patients, but also the illegality and patent infringement. The new Jan Marini lash product (contains peptides) does not work in my opinion.

Even though it’s a bother because it’s now prescription, it’s worth it to call your doctor and get Latisse if you love those longer, thicker eyelashes!

Next week – who shouldn’t use Latisse and why!

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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