Bimatoprost: The FDA-approved solution for eyelash growth
The medication most known for causing eyelash growth is bimatoprost, an active ingredient found in the prescription solution Latisse. Its ability to enhance eyelashes was discovered serendipitously when patients receiving it for the treatment of glaucoma reported notable lash enhancement. This led to extensive clinical trials and its subsequent approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating eyelash hypotrichosis, a condition characterized by inadequate or insufficient eyelashes.
How bimatoprost works on eyelashes
Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analog, a synthetic version of a naturally occurring compound in the body. Its exact mechanism for stimulating eyelash growth is not fully understood, but it is believed to primarily influence the hair growth cycle. The eyelash hair cycle consists of three main phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting).
Bimatoprost is thought to affect the anagen phase in two key ways:
- Increases the duration of the growth phase: By prolonging the amount of time eyelashes spend in the active growth phase, bimatoprost allows them to grow longer than they otherwise would.
- Increases the number of hairs in the growth phase: The medication encourages a higher proportion of hair follicles to enter and remain in the anagen phase, leading to more hairs overall.
Proper application and expected results
To achieve the desired results and minimize potential side effects, proper application of bimatoprost (Latisse) is crucial. The solution should only be applied to the base of the upper eyelashes, using the sterile, single-use applicators provided.
Application instructions:
- Cleanliness: Always start with a clean face, removing all makeup and contact lenses.
- Evening application: Bimatoprost is applied once nightly, in the evening.
- Single drop: Place one drop of the solution on the sterile applicator.
- Careful placement: Draw the applicator carefully along the skin of the upper eyelid, right at the base of the eyelashes. Do not apply it to the lower lid.
- Blotting: Blot any excess solution that runs off the eyelid with a tissue to prevent unwanted hair growth on other skin areas.
- New applicator: Use a new, sterile applicator for the other eye to prevent cross-contamination.
Patients typically begin to see results within four weeks, with full, noticeable improvement after 16 weeks of consistent use. If the medication is discontinued, the eyelashes will gradually return to their pre-treatment appearance over a period of weeks to months.
Potential side effects and warnings
While effective, bimatoprost is a powerful medication and carries a risk of side effects. Most side effects are mild and reversible, but some can be serious or permanent.
Common side effects include:
- Eye irritation or itching
- Dry or red eyes
- Darkening of the eyelid skin, which is typically reversible upon discontinuation
Less common, but more serious side effects:
- Permanent iris color change: In rare cases, bimatoprost can cause a permanent brown darkening of the colored part of the eye (the iris). This is more likely with direct application to the eye, as seen in glaucoma treatment, but remains a risk with cosmetic use.
- Periorbital fat atrophy: Some users may experience a hollowing or thinning appearance around the eye area due to the breakdown of fat, which can be permanent.
- Abnormal hair growth: Unwanted hair growth can occur on skin areas that the solution repeatedly comes into contact with.
- Macular edema: Swelling of the retina, which can affect vision, is a rare but serious side effect.
It is crucial to discuss your full medical history with a healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of glaucoma or eye pressure issues, as bimatoprost can affect intraocular pressure.
Comparison of eyelash-enhancing products
Knowing what medication causes eyelashes to grow helps differentiate between prescription treatments and over-the-counter products. The following table compares bimatoprost with other options.
| Feature | Bimatoprost (Latisse) | Other Prostaglandin Analogs (e.g., Latanoprost) | Over-the-Counter Serums | Home Remedies (e.g., Castor Oil) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Prescription only | Prescription only for glaucoma, off-label for cosmetic use | No prescription required | Readily available |
| Efficacy | Clinically proven for significant growth | Proven to cause eyelash growth as a side effect | May condition lashes, but not proven to cause growth | Anecdotal; no scientific proof of growth stimulation |
| FDA Status | FDA-approved for eyelash hypotrichosis | FDA-approved for glaucoma, not cosmetic use | Generally not FDA-approved for growth claims | N/A |
| Mechanism | Extends and increases anagen phase | Prostaglandin effect, similar to bimatoprost | Conditioners, peptides, botanical extracts | Moisturizes and conditions, not a growth mechanism |
| Side Effects | Itching, redness, eyelid darkening, potential permanent iris darkening | Similar to bimatoprost, with potential side effects | Possible irritation or allergic reaction | Minimal risk, potential for irritation |
Conclusion: Navigating eyelash growth options
In summary, bimatoprost is the only medication specifically approved by the FDA to cause eyelashes to grow, addressing the condition of hypotrichosis. It is a powerful, prescription-only treatment that requires careful application to achieve desired results and minimize potential risks. While other products containing prostaglandin analogs or over-the-counter conditioning serums exist, they do not have the same regulatory approval or proven efficacy for promoting significant lash growth. Anyone considering a cosmetic eyelash treatment should consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable and safest option for their individual needs. Understanding the differences between these products empowers you to make an informed decision for achieving longer, fuller, and darker lashes safely and effectively.
