Latisse . . . The Most Frequently Asked Questions |
![]() Connolly DermatologyCall Connolly Dermatology at 609-660-8002 for some additional tips for success. |
| View all articles by Connolly Dermatology |
A. LATISSE® solution is a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis (another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes) used to grow eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and darker.
Q. How does LATISSE® work and what should I expect?
A. Great eyelashes don’t just happen overnight. That’s why it’s important to note that LATISSE® works gradually and remarkably — with full results after 12 to 16 weeks. Once you begin treatment, you must continue applying the topical solution each night and follow the directions for best results. Remember results are gradual over time.
Your eyelashes will experience real measurable growth.
LATISSE® works from the inside out. As the treatment progresses, you’ll begin to see changes in length, thickness and darkness gradually. After week 16, you’ll see the full effect of LATISSE® — and So will others. In the clinical study, 78% of participants (versus 18% for vehicle) experienced a significant increase in overall eyelash prominence (including elements of length, fullness, and darkness) at week 16. Vehicle is the same solution as LATISSE®, without the active ingredient.
Q. Could LATISSE® cause the color of my eyes to change?
A. Increased brown iris pigmentation has occurred when the same formulation of bimatoprost ophthalmic solution was put directly into the eye as drops to treat elevated intraocular pressure/glaucoma.
Iris pigmentation (change of eye color) was NOT reported in clinical studies with LATISSE, where the solution is applied to the outer top lid.
Q. What should I do if I wear contact lenses?
A. Contact lenses should be removed prior to application of LATISSE® and may be reinserted 15 minutes following its administration.
Q. Can I get a prescription for LATISSE® from any doctor?
A. First, ask your doctor if LATISSE® is right for you. Although any doctor can prescribe LATISSE®, some may be more familiar with this product than others, such as dermatologists and skin care providers, who see more patients for LATISSE® than any other practioners. Now that you know more about LATISSE®, it’s important to understand a few simple tips to help you make your treatment as effective as possible.
Follow these guidelines for best results:
Think routine
Try to incorporate LATISSE® into your nightly routine — for example, after you’ve washed your face and brushed your teeth.
Keep it handy
Store the LATISSE® bottle near your other skin care products or toothbrush, so you won’t forget to apply it each night.
Have patience
LATISSE® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% takes time to work. Only use it once a night, and don’t overuse it, as this may increase the chance of experiencing eye redness or itchiness.
Start fresh
If your eye makeup remover leaves an oily residue on your eyelids, wash off any excess oils with soap and water to ensure a clean surface before you apply LATISSE®.
Follow the rules
Always use the sterile, disposable FDA-approved applicator provided in the kit. Don’t try to apply LATISSE® with a cotton swab. The LATISSE® applicator is specially designed to hold a drop and release a drop.
Don’t play catch up
If you miss a dose one night, don’t apply more just to catch up. Simply apply LATISSE® the next evening and stay on schedule.
Beware of germs
Don’t let the tip of the bottle or applicator contact your fingers or any other unintended surface, in order to avoid contamination by common bacteria known to cause infections.
Chart your progress
When you start using LATISSE® solution, be sure to mark your calendar and take pictures throughout weeks (0, 4, 8, 12, 16), so you can have your own “Before & After Gallery.”


- By Connolly Dermatology
- Published 01/9/2010
- Medical Professionals


