If you’ve ever wanted to grow longer eyelashes, there’s now a way to do it. The FDA has approved a drug that increases the length and thickness of eyelashes and can even darken their color. This drug known as Latisse (Bimatoprost 0.03% solution) was originally marked as a drug to treat glaucoma. When the drug was given to glaucoma patients, it was noted that their eyelashes became longer, thicker, and darker, prompting further study of the drug as a possible eyelash enhancer. Latisse has now received clearance by the FDA and is available for use.

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How Does Latisse Cause Thicker and Longer Eyelashes? 

It’s not completely clear how this medication works. The medication itself is structurally similar to prostaglandins, natural hormone-like substances found in the body. Receptors for prostaglandins can be found at the base of hair follicles. It may be that the medication stimulates these receptors causing the lashes to grow.

How Is It Used to Grow Eyelashes Longer?

The solution is applied along the upper margins of the eyelid where the eyelash meets the lid every night using a disposable applicator. A new disposable applicator is used with each application to avoid introducing bacteria into the eye. Results aren’t immediate. It can take up to four months to achieve thicker and longer eyelashes.

What About Side Effects of Latisse?

The most common side effects are eye irritation, itching, and redness which occur in around four percent of people using Latisse for thicker and longer eyelashes. This may be related to the preservative found in this medication which is known to cause irritation. When this drug was used to treat glaucoma, it was known, in some cases, to cause the colored portion of the eye to become browner in color.  Although this hasn’t been seen in eyelash enhancement studies, if it occurs, it could be permanent.