Do you need a prescription for latisse?

Are you tired of your short, stubby lashes? Do people mistake them for being non-existent? Look no further than Latisse! But before rushing to the pharmacy or opening your browser, there are some things you need to know.

What is Latisse?

Latisse is an FDA-approved medication that promotes eyelash growth. Its active ingredient is bimatoprost, which was initially used as a treatment for glaucoma. However, during clinical trials, it was discovered that participants showed increased lash length and thickness.

How does Latisse work?

Disclaimer: This section will contain some sciencey terms.

Bimatoprost works by prolonging the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. The anagen phase is the period when hair actively grows from its follicle. By extending this phase, more hairs can grow simultaneously and not fall out prematurely. It also increases melanogenesis in hair cells leading to darker pigmentation and shinier lashes!

Can anyone use Latisse?

Unfortunately not! As with any medication, there are risks involved if it’s not used appropriately. People who have had eye surgery or infections should avoid using Latisse until they’ve completely healed as it may interfere with recovery or even make things worse (gasp!). Anyone allergic to bimatoprost or similar ingredients should stay clear too (duh).

Pregnant women and nursing mothers aren’t advised to use it either as it hasn’t been tested on these groups yet (and let’s face it – nobody wants to risk harming innocent little humans).

Okay great…but do I need a prescription?

Short answer: YES! Unless you want counterfeit products that may cause harm (which we definitely don’t advise), then seek guidance from your physician or dermatologist on next steps (seriously guys, don’t buy sketchy stuff from some creepy website).

Why do I need a prescription?

Latisse is a medication and therefore should be used as per medical advice. Whilst the side effects can generally be mild, it’s important to have someone with a good understanding of your medical history prescribing it (just like any other drug). Not all medications are suitable for everyone (shocking, right?), so your doctor will take a thorough look at whether Latisse could interfere with any pre-existing conditions you might have or medicines you may be taking.

Note: we highly discourage doctor-shopping just to get prescribed Latisse. Take care of yourselves guys!

Where do I go for my prescription then?

Your physician would ordinarily prescribe this if they think it’s appropriate for you (we’re not saying that every Tom, Dick and Harry should rush out the door looking for their nearest doctor). Normally optometrists or ophthalmologists are qualified to write prescriptions for Latisse too since that boisterous bimatoprost was initially approved by the FDA back in 1997^1 to manage intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension under brand names including Lumigan^TM.

PRO TIP: If your local aesthetician claims they can give you an Rx on-site – run. Flee as fast as those fleas jumping around Old Town Road!

What about online pharmacies?

We know what you’re thinking – “but I’m busy working up to being internet-famous!!”. We hear ya but proceed cautiously if buying online! COVID-19 saw many unlicensed vendors set up shop, selling counterfeit products leading to eye infections and blindness (ouch!). Counterfeit products containing harmful ingredients and wrong concentrations also put customers at risk of unknown consequences.

Safety first folks!

How much does Latisse cost then?

As one would expect, the cost of Latisse is higher than that of plain Jane mascara. It can range from $120 to $150 for a 30-day supply^2. Pro Tip: Ask your doctor if they have any discount coupons hiding up their sleeves (they often do).

How long does it take to see results?

We know you’re eager to bat those lashes but patience is key! The recommended timeframe for seeing visible lash improvement when using Latisse daily as directed is 4-6 weeks, with full growth seen after 16 weeks^3 (sigh) but trust us – it’s worth it.

Any side effects I should be aware of?

Like any medication, there are always risks involved and side effects that may occur in some people. However, most report only mild side effects such as itching or redness around the eyes^4 (phew!). If you experience anything more severe though please contact your physician immediately . Also avoid letting droplets land on your cheeks when putting this stuff on (gasp) otherwise suffer an unfortunate increase in hair growth below already bushy eyebrows!

Conclusion

So now that we’ve answered all your questions about getting a prescription for Latisse, what time are you heading over to the doc’s office? We hope our informative AND entertaining advice has encouraged anyone looking for longer lashes consider the options available first before leaving expectations hanging by just simply perusing pretty pictures out there on social media! Stay safe out there folks!

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