Of all the eyelash serums on the market, one name comes up more than any other. It usually arrives in a slightly hushed, is-this-the-real-thing tone. Latisse is the serum people mean when they talk about lashes that genuinely grow rather than just look conditioned. It earned that reputation honestly, since the FDA approved it back in 2008 specifically to grow eyelashes. That approval, and the prescription status with it, is what sets it apart from everything else on the shelf. In this article we look at the science behind Latisse and whether it works on eyebrows. We also cover how to use it, its downsides and side effects. Finally, we look at where to get it in the UK and the alternatives worth knowing about.
What is Latisse?
Latisse is a prescription-only medicine in the UK that stimulates eyelash growth. Its active ingredient is bimatoprost, a drug originally developed to treat a serious eye condition called glaucoma. Doctors and patients noticed that one of its side effects was longer, fuller and darker eyelashes. That observation led the FDA to approve Latisse for the cosmetic purpose of enhancing lashes.
How Does Latisse Work?
Bimatoprost, the active ingredient in Latisse, is a prostaglandin analog that acts directly on the eyelash growth cycle. It improves the look of the lashes in three main ways.
- Extending the growth phase: The natural lash cycle runs through a growth phase (anagen), a transition phase (catagen) and a resting phase (telogen). Latisse extends the anagen phase, which lets lashes grow longer before they move on to resting.
- Increasing the number of hairs: Alongside extending anagen, Latisse increases the number of hairs growing during it, so lashes look fuller.
- Improving pigmentation: Some users find their lashes darken, which makes them more noticeable and so adds to the impression of length and thickness.
Results from Latisse build gradually. Initial changes are often visible around four weeks, with full results usually reached by about 16 weeks. It is worth remembering that the effect depends on continued use, so if you stop, your lashes gradually return to their previous appearance.
How Do You Use Latisse Eyelash Serum?
Latisse is simple to use, though a few details matter. It is an at-home treatment. The box holds the medication in a small dropper, along with a set of sterile applicators. You apply it along the base of the upper lashes once a day with a fresh applicator. The box contains manufacturer instructions. Even so, you should use Latisse exactly as your doctor advises, since that guidance is tailored to you. As a general routine, most people follow these steps.
- Cleanse the face and remove all traces of makeup, especially around the eyes.
- Apply a single drop of Latisse to a sterile applicator.
- Gently apply it to the base of the upper lashes, avoiding the eye itself, the lower lashes and the surrounding skin.
- Repeat with a new sterile applicator for the other eye.
- Use daily for the best results. You can apply it morning or evening, but let it dry for at least 15 minutes before any eye makeup.
What are the Side Effects & Downsides of Latisse?
Like all medicines, Latisse carries potential risks. Many people experience little or no trouble. Even so, it helps to know the possibilities and to speak to your prescriber if you have any concerns. The most commonly reported side effects and downsides include the following.
- Irritation or infection: Some users notice redness, itchiness or dryness of the eyes or eyelids, usually mild. Latisse does not cause infection itself. However, reusing a dropper between eyes or storing the medication poorly can transfer infection to the eye.
- Darkening of the eyelid skin: The skin around the application area can darken over time, which is usually reversible once you stop.
- Changes in eye colour: Some people report increased brown pigmentation in the coloured part of the eye, particularly those with hazel or green eyes. This is rare, but the change can be permanent.
- Hair growth outside the treatment area: If Latisse touches other areas of skin, it can stimulate hair growth there, so careful application matters.
- Allergic reactions: As with any product, there is a risk of reacting to one or more of the ingredients.
- Cost: Latisse is only available privately for cosmetic use, so it can be relatively expensive, especially given that results depend on continued use.
- Continued use: The effects are not permanent, and your lashes return to their original state once you stop.
On the whole, Latisse can meaningfully enhance lash growth, but it is worth weighing the risks and downsides before you start. Because it is a prescription medicine in the UK, you should consult a qualified and experienced doctor who can confirm whether it suits you, advise on getting the best results and help if any side effects appear.
Who Can Use Latisse Lash Serum?
Latisse is a prescription treatment generally considered safe for most adults who want to enhance their lash growth. It is not suitable for everyone, though, and a few considerations apply.
- Eye health: People with certain eye conditions, including dry eyes, macular oedema, chronic inflammation or infection, may not be suitable. A thorough consultation with a doctor or other prescriber is essential first.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Latisse is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, since its effects on the baby are not well studied.
- Allergies: Anyone with a known allergy to any of the ingredients should avoid it.
- Age: Doctors typically prescribe Latisse only to adults.
- Other medications: Tell your doctor about any other eye medicines or conditions, as Latisse may overlap or interfere with some.
- Medical lash conditions: Latisse targets cosmetic enhancement of natural lashes. It does not treat medical causes of lash loss such as alopecia areata, scarring or trichotillomania.
Does Latisse Work for Eyebrows?
Latisse holds specific approval for treating insufficient eyelashes, a condition called hypotrichosis. Some practitioners, however, use it off-label to encourage eyebrow growth, on the basis that the mechanism appears to be the same. Whilst it may stimulate growth in the brow area, the safety and effectiveness of Latisse for eyebrows have not been studied in any depth.
The same side effects apply as for lashes. These include skin darkening, irritation and unwanted hair growth wherever the solution spreads. The hair that grows on the brows may also come in thicker, coarser and curlier than your natural brow hair. If this interests you, discuss it with your doctor first and only proceed if they recommend it for you.
Where Do You Get Latisse Lash Serum in the UK?
You need a prescription to get Latisse in the UK. It is available through specialist aesthetic and dermatology clinics, as well as some pharmacies. You will first have a consultation with a doctor, dentist or nurse prescriber who decides whether it suits your needs. You usually pay for both the consultation and the product. One box of Latisse lasts around three months.
What are the Alternatives to Latisse?
Latisse is easy and convenient, but it does not suit everyone. Some people are put off by its prescription status or the need for continual use. There are several alternatives for enhancing lashes, and possibly brows, ranging from over-the-counter serums to professional treatments and lifestyle changes.
Over-the-counter serums are the most accessible option. Many brands offer non-prescription eyelash serums containing peptides, biotin or botanical extracts. They do not affect the growth cycle the way Latisse does. Instead, they nourish and condition the lashes, which can make them look healthier and fuller. Some mascaras now include peptides and vitamins that work along similar lines.
Eyelash extensions are a popular temporary alternative, where a technician attaches individual synthetic lashes to your natural ones for an immediate, dramatic boost in length and thickness. They can be costly, though, and need regular upkeep. Eyelash tinting and lifting are gentler salon options. Tinting darkens the lashes and lifting reshapes them, both creating a fuller look temporarily.
There are also less direct routes. A few habits help too. A well-balanced diet, careful handling of your lashes and supplements like biotin can all help your natural lashes look their best. Some people turn to natural oils such as castor oil or rosemary oil, though the scientific evidence for these is limited and results vary.
On the medical side, some practitioners prescribe other prostaglandin analogs off-label. These work similarly to Latisse but are normally licensed for glaucoma rather than lash growth. If a practitioner suggests this, discuss the risks and side effects in detail, since they may differ from those of Latisse. A few clinics have also explored microneedling and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for lash and brow growth. This is an emerging and not widely studied area. Treat these as experimental, and only consider them with an experienced doctor in a clinical setting.
Used correctly and for the right person, Latisse is a safe and effective way to enhance the lashes. Because it is a prescription-only medicine in the UK, getting it means a consultation with a medical practitioner. They confirm whether it suits you and advise on safe use, then help you reach your goals. If Latisse is not right for you, several alternatives are worth considering, each with its own benefits and limitations. As ever, the best choice depends on your individual needs, lifestyle and health.
We do not provide Latisse at City Skin Clinic. However, our doctors treat conditions including acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma and skin ageing via bespoke compounded treatments designed around you, using prescription-strength ingredients like tretinoin and hydroquinone where appropriate. Book a video consultation or start your online consultation today. Your journey towards great skin starts here.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical professional with any concerns about your skin or treatment options.
