The active ingredient in Latisse (Bimatoprost) was originally developed to treat glaucoma – it works in this case by reducing excessive pressure inside the eye which can lead to vision loss. However, it quickly became apparent that Bimatoprost has a useful side-effect – when applied to the base of the eyelashes it causes more vigorous hair growth. This hair growth results in longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes.
Naturally, this effect led to research on whether the product could also have a similar effect on the hair on other parts of the body, and especially on the areas that concern many – eyelashes for women, and receding scalp hair for men.
Latisse is thought to work by extending the normal growth cycle of the hair follicle so that the lifetime of individual hairs is extended, allowing them to grow longer before naturally falling out. Hair looks thicker because the number of actively growing hairs has increased.
Latisse and Eyelashes
Latisse has conclusively been shown to be highly effective at stimulating the growth of eyelashes and has received FDA approval for using it this way.
Latisse and Eyebrows
Research has shown that Latisse can also help improve hair growth in the eyebrows, although it may take six months or more before the effects become apparent. As with eyelashes, the benefits of using Latisse persist only as long as the product continues to be used. Latisse has not been officially approved by the FDA for use on the eyebrows, so you should consult with a medical practitioner before using the product this way.
Latisse and Scalp Hair
It appears that Latisse may be at least partially effective on the scalp, but several negative factors mean that using the product this way may not be practical. Firstly Latisse promotes the growth of active hair follicles, but it’s ineffective when used on follicles that have stopped growing hair. The skin on the scalp is thicker than the skin around the eyes, meaning that much more product would need to be applied to reach the targeted hair follicles. Lastly, and most significantly, Latisse is not cheap, and the larger quantity of product required for effective use on the scalp means that the cost would be prohibitive for most people.
Secondary issues also complicate the use of Latisse this way – it’s important to control exactly where the product is applied, as you risk hair growth in unwanted places if the product is not applied carefully. While it’s relatively easy to apply it with precision around the eyes, using Latisse on the head would be extremely difficult to control with precision. For example, simply washing your hair in the shower would result in product traces running over your body, potentially leading to hair growth in unexpected places. The FDA has also not officially approved the use of Latisse on the scalp.
Your Laser Skin Care
Your Laser Skin Care practitioners can evaluate you for the use of Latisse and can provide the necessary prescriptions. We are available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the product. We also have extensive experience with a wide variety of non-invasive cosmetic procedures and can help you choose the safest, most effective, and most cost-effective way to achieve your cosmetic goals. Call us at (323) 525-1516 to schedule a free consultation, or visit us online for more information.
