FDA approved Latisse for Longer, Thicker Eyelashes

Ask an Expert: Your Latisse Questions Answered

The days of skimpy, barely there lashes are over, thanks to the recent boom in eyelash lengthening and thickening products. And while many of these products really do work, the one that seems to get the most attention is Latisse. With celebrity spokesmodels that have included Christina Hendricks, Claire Danes and Brooke Shields, it’s no wonder that this serum stands out. But do luscious lashes come at a cost?

There were so many questions about Latisse in response to our video about eyelash extensions, we decided to make it the topic for this week’s “Ask an Expert.” Beverly Hills, CA, plastic surgeon Leslie H. Stevens, MD, is here with the answers.

First, Latisse works by prolonging the growth cycles of your eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and darker over time. Noticeable results typically occur after six weeks, with full results after 14 weeks.

Kristen asks, What are the side effects of Latisse and what is the percentage of women who usually see these side effects? I'm very interested, but worried about potentially changing the look of, or causing damage to my eyes.

According to Dr. Stevens, there are very few side effects. “Transient irritation of the skin or pigmentation of the skin that is reversible are the most common. There is a very, very small chance (less than 2 percent) of permanent darkening of the iris in people with green or hazel eyes.”

Another question comes from Melissa who asks, Is Latisse something you have to continue to use forever if you want to keep long, full eyelashes? Or do you use until you get your lashes where you want them to be, and then stop?

Unfortunately, if you stop using the product, your lashes will slowly return to their previous state. “Just like eyelash extensions, one needs to continue using the product to maintain the results.”

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