Product Description
Product overview
Latisse is the first and only FDA-approved prescription treatment for eyelash hypotrichosis. Powered by bimatoprost 0.03%, this clinical-strength serum extends the growth phase of eyelash follicles to deliver visibly longer, fuller, and darker lashes in as little as 4 weeks, with full results at 16 weeks.
FDA-Approved Formula
The only prescription eyelash treatment approved by the FDA for growing longer, fuller, and darker lashes. Backed by rigorous clinical trials.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFDA-Approved Formula
The only prescription eyelash treatment approved by the FDA for growing longer, fuller, and darker lashes. Backed by rigorous clinical trials.
Clinically Proven Results
76% of clinical trial participants saw significant lash improvement at 16 weeks, with visible changes starting as early as 4 weeks.
Prostaglandin Analog Technology
Bimatoprost extends the anagen (growth) phase of eyelash follicles, increasing the number of hairs produced and their length and darkness.
Minimal, Clean Formula
Only 6 ingredients total. Free from fragrances, oils, parabens, silicones, and sulfates. Sterile ophthalmic-grade solution.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEBimatoprost is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. Animal studies showed adverse effects. Do not use during pregnancy.
Unknown whether bimatoprost passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before using while breastfeeding.
Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates. Only 6 clean, simple ingredients.
Applied only to the upper lash line, not across facial skin. Oil-free, water-based sterile solution rated 0/5 comedogenic.
May cause permanent brown darkening of the iris (colored part of the eye), especially in hazel or green eyes.
May cause reversible darkening of the eyelid skin. Generally resolves after discontinuing use.
Remove contact lenses before application. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting. May discolor soft lenses.
Latisse is available only with a doctor's prescription. Do not share with others or use if allergic to any ingredient.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBimatoprost 0.03%Proven
A synthetic prostaglandin analog and the sole active ingredient. Originally developed to treat glaucoma (as Lumigan), bimatoprost was FDA-approved for eyelash hypotrichosis in 2008 after patients noticed dramatic lash growth as a side effect.
- Mechanism: Extends the anagen (active growth) phase of eyelash hair follicles, increasing length, thickness, and melanin production
- Clinical trial: 76% of participants showed significant improvement in overall eyelash prominence at 16 weeks (GEA scale)
- Onset: Visible results in 4–8 weeks; full results at 16 weeks with consistent nightly use
Benzalkonium Chloride 0.005%Preservative
A quaternary ammonium compound used as a preservative to maintain the sterility of the ophthalmic solution and prevent microbial contamination.
- Function: Antimicrobial preservative commonly used in eye drops and ophthalmic solutions
- Concentration: Present at 0.05 mg/mL — a standard safe level for ophthalmic use
Sodium ChlorideStabilizer
Common salt used to make the solution isotonic — matching the osmotic pressure of natural tears so it does not sting or irritate the delicate eye area upon application.
- Function: Maintains osmotic balance for comfort and safety on application
Sodium Phosphate Dibasic & Citric AcidBuffer System
These two ingredients work together as a pH buffer system, maintaining the solution's pH between 6.8–7.8 throughout its shelf life. This ensures stability, efficacy, and comfortable application.
- Function: pH stabilization within a safe range for ophthalmic use
- pH Range: 6.8–7.8 (close to natural tear pH of ~7.4)
6 ingredients
Active: Bimatoprost 0.3 mg/mL. Preservative: Benzalkonium Chloride 0.05 mg/mL. Inactives: Sodium Chloride, Sodium Phosphate Dibasic, Citric Acid, Purified Water. Sodium Hydroxide and/or Hydrochloric Acid (pH adjuster).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply once nightly after cleansing face and removing contacts. Use before any other eye area products. Wait 15 minutes before reinserting contact lenses.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Wash your face, remove all makeup, and take out contact lenses. Pat the eye area dry.
Prepare Applicator
Remove one sterile applicator from its tray. Place one drop of Latisse on the applicator tip — do not apply directly from the bottle.
Apply to Upper Lash Line
Carefully brush the applicator along the skin at the base of the upper eyelashes, from the inner to the outer corner. The lash line should feel lightly moist.
Blot Excess
Use a tissue to blot any excess solution beyond the eyelid margin. Do NOT apply to the lower eyelid or directly into the eye.
Repeat & Dispose
Discard the used applicator. Use a new sterile applicator for the other eye. Each applicator is single-use only.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have naturally thin, sparse, or short eyelashes (hypotrichosis)
- Your lashes have thinned due to aging, hormonal changes, or medical treatments
- You want a clinically proven, FDA-approved lash growth treatment
- You are committed to nightly application for at least 16 weeks
- You want to reduce reliance on extensions, falsies, or heavy mascara
- You are not pregnant, breastfeeding, or allergic to bimatoprost
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- You have glaucoma or use IOP-lowering prostaglandin eye drops
- You are concerned about potential iris color change (especially with light eyes)
- You want a non-prescription, over-the-counter option
- You are unwilling to commit to consistent nightly application
- You have active eye infections, uveitis, or macular edema
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, water-based solution. Applied only to lash line — no impact on facial oiliness or pore congestion.
Does not strip moisture or cause dryness. Targeted lash-line application means it won't affect overall skin hydration.
Lightweight liquid formula works well across all skin zones. No interference with other skincare products.
May cause eye redness, itching, or eyelid irritation in sensitive individuals. Contains preservative benzalkonium chloride. Patch test strongly recommended.
Non-comedogenic (0/5). Oil-free, fungal-acne safe. No ingredients that clog pores or trigger breakouts.
Results timeline
WEEK 16Adjustment Period
Lashes may feel slightly different. Some users report mild eye redness or itching as the eye area adjusts. No visible lash growth yet.
10% noticed early signsFirst Visible Changes
Early lash growth becomes noticeable. Lashes may appear slightly longer and some new fine lashes start emerging at the base.
25% noticed improvementSignificant Growth
Clear increase in lash length and density. Statistically significant differences documented in clinical trials at this point. Lashes begin to look darker.
50% noticed significant changeFull Results
Peak results achieved — lashes are measurably longer, thicker, and darker. This is the primary endpoint from FDA clinical trials. Maintenance usage can begin (3–4x per week).
76% achieved significant lash prominenceRatings by platform
330+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Only FDA-approved treatment for eyelash growth — gold standard
- Clinically proven with 76% success rate at 16 weeks
- Ultra-clean formula with only 6 ingredients
- Dramatic visible results — longer, fuller, darker lashes
- Simple once-daily evening application
- Can reduce need for mascara, extensions, and falsies
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, non-comedogenic
Criticized
- Expensive — $120–$212 per bottle (1–2 month supply)
- Requires ongoing use; results reverse when discontinued
- Risk of permanent iris color change (darkening)
- Eyelid skin darkening (hyperpigmentation) in some users
- Possible periorbital fat loss with prolonged use
- Prescription required — not available over the counter
- Excessive single-use plastic applicators create waste
- Not safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESIdentical active ingredient (bimatoprost 0.03%) at a fraction of the price. Same prescription requirement but significantly cheaper with coupons. Exact same mechanism and efficacy.
Uses isopropyl cloprostenate (a milder prostaglandin analog) plus peptides and vitamins. No prescription needed. Results are slower and less dramatic, but fewer side effects. 3-month supply.
Contains a proprietary BioPeptin complex with latanoprost analog, biotin, peptides, and botanical extracts. No prescription required. Gentler formula with reduced side effect risk but milder results.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDELatisse
GrandeLASH-MD
RevitaLash Advanced
Vegamour GRO Lash Serum
Storage & shelf life
1 MONTHSUse within the period indicated on packaging. Typically a 3mL bottle lasts ~1 month and a 5mL bottle ~2 months when used as directed.
Store at 2°C to 25°C (36°F to 77°F). Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated.
Opaque white LDPE dropper bottle with sterile disposable applicators (70 with 3mL, 140 with 5mL). Tamper-evident seal.
Yes — both 3mL and 5mL bottles are well under the 100mL TSA liquid limit. Compact size fits easily in a toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Latisse is not considered safe during pregnancy. Bimatoprost was classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C, meaning animal studies showed adverse reproductive effects (including increased miscarriage risk and reduced fetal weight), though human data is limited. Most dermatologists and OB-GYNs advise discontinuing Latisse during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, safety is uncertain — it is unknown whether bimatoprost passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before using while nursing.
Yes. Latisse is fungal acne safe. Its formula contains only 6 ingredients, none of which are ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Additionally, it is applied only to the thin skin of the upper eyelid margin, not across broader facial areas where fungal acne typically occurs.
Yes, Latisse can generally be used alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs since it is applied specifically to the lash line and not the broader facial area. However, avoid applying active serums directly onto the eyelid margin where Latisse has been applied, as this could increase irritation. Wait until Latisse has fully absorbed (a few minutes) before applying other products nearby. If you experience increased sensitivity or redness, space out your applications.
Latisse works across all skin types since it targets the eyelash follicles rather than the facial skin. It is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free, making it suitable for oily, dry, combination, and acne-prone skin. Those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea around the eyes should use caution, as bimatoprost can cause eye redness and eyelid irritation in some individuals.
Most users begin noticing initial changes at 4 weeks, with clearly visible improvement by 8 weeks. Full, peak results are achieved at 16 weeks (4 months) of consistent nightly use, as documented in FDA clinical trials. After reaching full results, many doctors recommend reducing to maintenance application of 3–4 times per week. Results gradually reverse if you stop using Latisse entirely.
Apply Latisse at night after removing all makeup, cleansing your face, and removing contact lenses. It should be the first product applied to the eye area. After application and absorption, you can proceed with your regular nighttime routine (eye cream, serum, moisturizer). Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting contact lenses.
No. Latisse has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It is an oil-free, water-based sterile ophthalmic solution with only 6 ingredients. It is applied in a tiny amount specifically to the upper lash line, not across the face. There is no risk of pore clogging or acne breakouts from Latisse when used as directed.
A 3mL bottle of Latisse is designed to last approximately 1 month (30 days) with nightly use on both eyes using the provided sterile applicators. A 5mL bottle lasts approximately 2 months (70 days). Some users report stretching the supply longer by using alternative application methods, though this is off-label. Store at 2–25°C (36–77°F) and keep the bottle tightly sealed. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging.
Verdict: Latisse remains the undisputed gold standard for eyelash growth — it is the only FDA-approved prescription treatment with robust clinical evidence proving it makes lashes longer, fuller, and darker. The ultra-minimal 6-ingredient formula is impressively clean, and the results are genuinely dramatic for most users. However, the high cost ($120–$212/month), requirement for ongoing use to maintain results, and meaningful side effect risks (iris darkening, eyelid hyperpigmentation, periorbital fat loss) hold it back from a perfect score. Best suited for those with genuine hypotrichosis or significant lash thinning who want the strongest, most scientifically proven option available and are comfortable with the potential risks under medical supervision.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Benzalkonium Chloride
Antimicrobial, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Phosphate
Buffering Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|