LATISSE vs. Eyelash Extensions

Thicker, longer eyelashes are something most women strive for, either by using the newest expensive mascaras, taking supplements that promise to “boost” eyelash growth, buying heated eyelash curlers to achieve that “perfect” curled lash, or even looking into lash implants. Nowadays there are two real and long lasting options for achieving beautiful, thicker and longer eyelashes. LATISSE, the only FDA-approved prescription eyelash treatment and eyelash extensions.

LATISSE is created and produced by the cosmetic industry leader, Allegran, who have the other major products BOTOX® and Juvederm, two of today’s top wrinkle-removing injectables. So what exactly does LATISSE do and what do you need to know about this treatment? The main ingredient in LATISSE is bimatoprost, a topical ingredient that initially was used to treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It’s effectiveness was discovered while treating eye diseases.  Bimatoprost gets applied to the root and shaft of individual lashes and can help build up the eyelashes during the hair’s growth phase. LATISSE also treats hypotichosis, which prolongs the eyelash growth phase in general so eyelashes will continue to grow for a longer period of time. Application of LATISSE is simple and quick.  LATISSE patients use a small one time use brush to apply it to the top eyelid where the skin meets the eyelashes. This is done nightly before bed after all makeup is removed. The side effects are minor including eye itchiness, some redness in and around the eye and slight darkening of the eyelid, all of which are reversible once LATISSE is no longer used. Most people using LATISSE as directed see a change after about 8 weeks of use and full results after about 16 weeks. Once you have reached your desired length, people may “maintain” the length by only applying the solution 1-3 times per week. It is important to note that once you quit using LATISSE, your eyelashes will gradually go back to their natural selves.

The other option is lash extensions. With eyelash extensions, synthetic single fiber polyester thread-like materials are applied to individual eyelashes to create a fuller, longer look. Unlike LATISSE, eyelash extensions must be done in a salon and can only be applied by a licensed aesthetician or registered nurse. The whole process can take around one and a half to two hours for a full set of extensions of roughly 30-80 extensions per eye as each lash is applied one extension per lash. The extensions are applied with a surgical grade adhesive that bonds to one’s natural lash. If properly applied with the medical grade adhesive, the eyelash extensions should last about 2-4 weeks before a touch up is needed to replenish the lash extensions. As the hair grows out, it cycles and falls off naturally, shedding the extension with it. There are many brands of eyelash extensions and many different lengths, colors and thickness. Once applied, the lashes can be worn during sleep, showering and swimming although it is not recommended to come into contact with water within 2 hours after the application and rubbing your eyes, facials, steaming or taking a steam bath is not recommended for at least 2 days after the process.

Both LATISSE and eyelash extensions are not permanent, and must be continued for long lasting results. In terms of price, LATISSE is generally more affordable running at around $120 a bottle (many LATISSE customers have said that one bottle will last up to 2-4 months). Eyelash extensions, on the other hand, run anywhere from $250-600 for the first treatment and then around $75-100 per month for lash touch ups. So while eyelash extensions will give that patient instant gratification, it will be at a cost.

Come by and pick up some Latisse and see your eyelashes grow.

BEVERLY HILLS PLASTIC SURGERY GROUP

436 N BEDFORD DR. SUITE 308

BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210

(310) 275-6600