What is the drug that makes your eyelashes grow?

In 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first prescription treatment for inadequate lashes. This treatment, containing the active ingredient bimatoprost, is the answer to the question, 'What is the drug that makes your eyelashes grow?'. It works by influencing the natural growth cycle of eyelashes, leading to longer, thicker, and darker lashes over time.

Quick Summary

Bimatoprost is a prescription medication used to treat hypotrichosis of the eyelashes, promoting longer, thicker, and darker lash growth with consistent use. It's a prostaglandin analog that works by prolonging the hair growth phase. Common and permanent side effects exist, requiring a doctor's supervision.

Key Points

• Bimatoprost Is the Drug: The prescription medication Latisse contains bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog, which is FDA-approved for eyelash growth.

• Extends Growth Phase: Bimatoprost makes eyelashes grow longer, thicker, and darker by prolonging the anagen (active growth) phase of the hair cycle.

• Requires Consistent Use: Results are gradual, with full effects seen after 16 weeks of nightly application. The effects are temporary and will reverse if discontinued.

• Potential for Permanent Side Effects: A rare but possible side effect is the permanent darkening of the iris (the colored part of the eye). Darkening of the eyelid skin is also possible but often reversible.

• Differs from OTC Serums: Prescription bimatoprost is more potent and clinically proven than over-the-counter serums, which often use peptides and conditioners for less dramatic, slower results.

• Requires Medical Supervision: Due to potential side effects, including impact on eye health, bimatoprost requires a doctor's prescription and ongoing medical supervision.

• Proper Application Is Key: Always use the provided sterile applicators and apply only to the upper eyelid margin to minimize the risk of unwanted hair growth or other side effects.

What Is the Prescription Eyelash Growth Drug?

Bimatoprost is the active ingredient in the prescription medication Latisse, which is approved by the FDA to treat hypotrichosis, a condition characterized by inadequate or sparse eyelashes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as prostaglandin analogs, originally developed to treat glaucoma by reducing pressure within the eye. The cosmetic effect of increased eyelash growth was discovered as a side effect in glaucoma patients, leading to the development of Latisse specifically for this purpose.

The Mechanism Behind Eyelash Growth

Eyelashes, like other body hair, undergo a natural growth cycle with three phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Bimatoprost is thought to affect this cycle in two primary ways:

• Extending the anagen phase: The medication increases the amount of time that eyelashes spend in the active growth phase, allowing them to grow longer.
• Increasing the number of hairs: It can also stimulate hair follicles that are in the resting (telogen) phase to move into the active growth phase, increasing the number of visible lashes.

When applied nightly to the base of the upper lashes, bimatoprost is absorbed by the hair follicles, triggering these changes. It takes several weeks to see a noticeable difference, with maximum results typically visible after 16 weeks of consistent daily use. If you stop using the medication, your eyelashes will gradually return to their original appearance.

Application and Usage Guidelines

For safe and effective use of bimatoprost (Latisse), it is crucial to follow the prescribed instructions carefully.

1. Preparation: Wash your hands and face thoroughly to remove all makeup and contact lenses. You can reinsert contact lenses 15 minutes after application.
2. Application: Use a single, sterile applicator for each eye. Place one drop of the solution on the applicator and draw it carefully along the skin of the upper eyelid at the base of the lashes, similar to applying liquid eyeliner.
3. Removal of excess: Blot any excess solution that runs outside the upper eyelid margin with a tissue to prevent unwanted hair growth on other skin areas.
4. Disposal: Discard the applicator after each use and repeat the process for the other eye with a new applicator.
5. Timing: Apply the solution once nightly, as using it more frequently will not produce better results.

Important Note: This medication is only for the upper eyelids. It should not be applied to the lower lid or directly into the eye.

Potential Side Effects of Bimatoprost

While generally safe when used as directed, bimatoprost can cause side effects. Some are temporary, while others can be permanent.

• Common (and often reversible) side effects:

  • Itching or redness of the eyes
  • Dryness or irritation of the eyes
  • Darkening of the skin on the eyelids
  • Increased eye sensitivity to light
  • Allergic reactions, though rare

• Serious (or potentially permanent) side effects:

  • Iris color changes: A rare but serious risk is the potential for permanent brown darkening of the iris, the colored part of the eye. This risk is higher with direct exposure to the eye and is not reversible.
  • Periorbital fat atrophy: In rare cases, long-term use has been linked to a loss of fat around the eye, which can cause a sunken or hollowed-out appearance.
  • Dry eye: Prolonged use can affect the meibomian glands, which produce oil for tears, potentially leading to chronic dry eye.

Prescription vs. Over-the-Counter Eyelash Serums

For those considering eyelash growth products, understanding the differences between prescription and OTC options is essential. The following table highlights the key distinctions.

Feature	Prescription (Bimatoprost/Latisse)	Over-the-Counter (Peptide-based)	Over-the-Counter (Prostaglandin-based)
Active Ingredient	Bimatoprost (Prostaglandin analog)	Peptides, vitamins, conditioners	Unregulated prostaglandin analogs (e.g., isopropyl cloprostenate)
Regulation	FDA-approved for eyelash hypotrichosis	Not FDA-approved for eyelash growth; regulated as cosmetics	Not FDA-approved; potentially riskier due to unknown severity of side effects
Effectiveness	Clinically proven to be highly effective, delivering more dramatic results	Less potent, primarily conditions and strengthens lashes	May produce faster results than peptide serums, but with unknown safety profile
Results Timeline	8-16 weeks for optimal results	6-12 weeks for more modest, conditioning-based improvements	Variable, may appear faster than peptide serums
Side Effects	Common side effects are frequent; rare permanent iris darkening risk	Generally gentler with fewer side effects; no risk of permanent iris changes	Similar side effect risks to prescription products (iris darkening, eyelid discoloration), but without medical oversight
Availability	Requires a doctor's prescription	Widely available over-the-counter and online	Available over-the-counter, but regulatory status is a concern
Cost	Typically higher cost, not covered by most insurance	Generally more affordable	Can vary widely depending on brand

Other Alternatives to Consider

Beyond prescription and OTC serums, other options can enhance the appearance of eyelashes.

• Eyelash Extensions: Professionally applied synthetic lashes attached to your natural lashes. They offer immediate results but require regular maintenance and can sometimes damage natural lashes.
• False Eyelashes: A temporary cosmetic solution for special occasions, offering a wide range of styles and volumes. The application involves cosmetic adhesives.
• Natural Remedies and Diet: Some individuals use natural oils like castor oil, though safety is not clinically proven, particularly during pregnancy. A diet rich in protein, biotin, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids supports overall hair health, including lashes.
• Lifestyle Practices: Gentle handling of lashes, avoiding harsh chemicals, and minimizing heat styling can prevent damage and breakage.

Conclusion

For those seeking the most robust and clinically proven method to address inadequate lashes, the prescription medication bimatoprost (Latisse) is the established answer. It offers significant and measurable results in promoting longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes by extending their growth cycle. However, this powerful medication comes with potential side effects, including the rare risk of permanent iris darkening, which must be carefully weighed against the cosmetic benefits.

Over-the-counter options, particularly peptide-based serums, provide a gentler, lower-risk alternative, focusing more on conditioning and strengthening existing lashes for a more modest enhancement. Meanwhile, unregulated OTC serums containing prostaglandin analogs carry risks similar to their prescription counterparts without the necessary medical supervision.

Ultimately, the choice depends on an individual's goals, tolerance for side effects, and budget. For those considering bimatoprost, consulting a healthcare professional, like an ophthalmologist or dermatologist, is a critical first step to ensure safety and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. For authoritative information on bimatoprost, refer to reliable sources such as MedlinePlus.

: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a609009.html : https://www.allerganaesthetics.com/brands/latisse : https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-you-should-know-about-drug-to-grow-thick-eyelashes : https://www.goodrx.com/latisse/does-latisse-work : https://www.kirschderm.com/eyelash-growth-prostaglandin-analogues-naples-fl/ : https://pharmaceutical-journal.com/article/ld/latanoprost-as-a-cosmetic-for-eyelashes : https://www.goodrx.com/latisse/what-is : https://health.amazon.com/onemedical/Eyelash-growth-treatment/dp/B0BVCY2R6M : https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-you-should-know-about-drug-to-grow-thick-eyelashes : https://www.raleigheyecenter.com/blog/the-risks-of-lash-growth-serums-from-a-raleigh-optometrist.html : https://www.parschauer.com/latisse/ : https://hairgp.co.uk/prescription-vs-otc-lash-serums-worth-the-money/ : https://www.nurx.com/blog/prescription-vs-otc-lash-serum-whats-the-difference/ : https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a609009.html : https://www.newbeauty.com/prostaglandins-risks-benefits/ : https://njfue.com/blog/stimulate-hair-follicles-better-hair-growth/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the active ingredient in the prescription drug for eyelash growth?

The active ingredient in the FDA-approved prescription drug for eyelash growth, known by the brand name Latisse, is bimatoprost.

How long does it take to see results from bimatoprost?

You may begin to see results in as little as 4 weeks, with the full effect on eyelash growth typically appearing after 16 weeks of consistent nightly use.

Are the effects of Latisse permanent?

The enhanced eyelash growth from Latisse is not permanent. If you stop using the medication, your lashes will gradually return to their original appearance over several weeks to months.

What are the common side effects of bimatoprost?

Common side effects include eye redness, eye itchiness, eye irritation, and reversible darkening of the eyelid skin. These typically subside if the treatment is stopped.

Is there a risk of permanent eye color change with Latisse?

Yes, there is a rare risk of permanent brown pigmentation of the iris, the colored part of the eye, particularly in individuals with lighter eye colors. This is an irreversible side effect.

How do prescription eyelash serums compare to over-the-counter (OTC) versions?

Prescription serums like Latisse are more potent and clinically proven to grow lashes. OTC serums, often with peptides, are less powerful and primarily condition lashes, offering slower and less dramatic results.

Can I use bimatoprost on my lower eyelashes?

No, the medication should only be applied to the skin of the upper eyelid at the base of the lashes. Application to the lower lid is not recommended.