June 09, 2009 | Medical Spa
3 minute read
How a Glaucoma Treatment Sparked the Lash-Lengthening Revolution
In the world of aesthetics, some of the most effective treatments arise unexpectedly. Latisse, the first and only FDA-approved treatment to enhance eyelash length, thickness, and darkness, is one such innovation—originating from a surprising place: glaucoma treatment.
Originally developed as Lumigan, a medication for reducing intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients, the drug’s active ingredient bimatoprost showed an unusual but highly desirable side effect—hypertrichosis, a condition that causes longer, darker, and fuller eyelashes.
What was once considered a “complication” by optometrists soon captured the interest of the beauty industry.
The Evolution of Latisse: From Side Effect to Beauty Breakthrough
When Allergan introduced Lumigan in 2001, the focus was purely medical. However, patients and eye care professionals quickly noticed that continued use led to more noticeable, luxurious lashes.
This off-label benefit didn’t go unnoticed by other skincare brands. Jan Marini Skin Research Inc. launched a product called Age Intervention Eyelash, which was later seized by the FDA for containing bimatoprost without proper clearance. Allergan responded by filing patent infringement lawsuits and began its own in-depth clinical testing.
The Science Behind Latisse
Understanding that this discovery had major cosmetic potential, Allergan launched controlled clinical trials to determine the safety and efficacy of bimatoprost for eyelash enhancement.
In the study, 278 healthy adults with minimal to moderate eyelash visibility applied either bimatoprost or a placebo to the upper eyelid lash line once daily. The results were impressive:
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25% increase in eyelash length
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106% increase in eyelash thickness/fullness
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18% increase in eyelash darkness
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Mild side effects included itchy eyes (3.6%) and skin pigmentation (2.9%)
The findings proved what users had suspected for years: bimatoprost effectively enhances natural eyelashes, safely and significantly.
In late 2008, Latisse received FDA approval for the treatment of hypotrichosis (inadequate or not enough lashes), officially launching a new era in cosmetic eye care.
How Latisse Works
Latisse is applied once daily with a sterile applicator to the base of the upper eyelashes—just like liquid eyeliner. Over time, the solution extends the growth phase of the eyelashes (anagen phase), leading to visibly longer, thicker, and darker lashes.
Full results are typically visible in 12 to 16 weeks, with continued daily use needed to maintain results. If use is discontinued, lashes will gradually return to their previous appearance.
Is Latisse Right for You?
Latisse is ideal for adults who are frustrated with short, sparse, or light-colored lashes and prefer a natural, non-surgical approach to lash enhancement. Whether you’re looking to reduce your reliance on mascara or simply want to wake up with naturally full lashes, Latisse is an effective and well-researched solution.
It’s important to note that Latisse is available by prescription only and should be used under the guidance of a qualified provider to avoid misuse or complications.
Get Latisse in Eugene, Oregon
At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and The Spa Side in Eugene, we are proud to offer Latisse as part of our suite of advanced aesthetic treatments. Under the care of Dr. Lee B. Daniel, a board-certified plastic surgeon with a reputation for excellence, you can safely begin your journey toward longer, more beautiful lashes.
Our team can provide a full consultation to determine if Latisse is right for you, and guide you through the proper application and expectations for results.
Ready for Longer, Thicker, and Darker Lashes?
📞 Call us today at (541) 687-8900 or request a consultation online to learn more about Latisse in Eugene, Oregon.
Join the growing number of women and men who’ve discovered that better lashes don’t require glue or extensions—just science.