✅ Medically reviewed by Dr Tom Walker – 06/12/2025
Many people in the UK looking to grow longer or thicker eyelashes wonder whether their GP can prescribe Latisse, or whether they can get bimatoprost or Lumigan for lash growth through the NHS. It is a common question but the short answer is usually no.
Why GPs Don’t Prescribe Latisse
Latisse is the brand name for bimatoprost 0.03%, a prostaglandin analogue originally developed to treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
In the United States of America the FDA (the Food and Drug Administration, equivalent to the MHRA in the UK) has approved Latisse for cosmetic eyelash enhancement. In the UK and Europe bimatoprost is still primarily licensed for eye conditions, not for cosmetic lash or brow growth.
Because of this GPs are not permitted to prescribe it for cosmetic reasons under NHS regulations. The NHS prescribes medicines for medical indications only and not for beauty or aesthetic use. Since eyelash and eyebrow growth is normally considered cosmetic then its use by the NHS is rare.
Can GPs Prescribe It Privately?
In theory a GPcould prescribe bimatoprost off-label as part of a private consultations. Most NHS GPs do not issue private cosmetic prescriptions and few have access to pharmacy arrangements that dispense cosmetic products, as well as the additional material such as a precision applicator to use.
There may be the odd occasion when a GP will issue a prescription for bimatoprost off label for lash or brow regrowth for very specific indications, but this is thought to be extremely rare.
The Role of Bimatoprost and Lumigan
In the UK bimatoprost is available under brand names such as Lumigan or as a generic. These are licensed for glaucoma and ocular hypertension, not for eyelash growth. The medicine itself is identical to the active ingredient in Latisse.
There is a key regulatory difference between the US and Europe when it comes to drug approval. In America, the FDA grants approval for specific brand indications (for example, Latisse for eyelash growth). In the UK, the MHRA licenses medicines by molecule, not by brand.
That limits Allergan’s commercial incentive to launch the Latisse brand here, since other bimatoprost producers could legally market the same indication once approved.
What this means for UK consumers
While your GP can’t prescribe Latisse for eyelash growth, medically supervised access is still possible through reputable UK providers.
At MyLash.org, our team of doctors and cosmetic scientists have specialised in eyelash and eyebrow growth treatments since 2007. We have helped over 15,000 clients achieve longer, thicker and darker lashes safely and effectively, earning recognition in leading UK magazines and newspapers. We offer a doctor-led consultation service, direct UK delivery, and treatments backed by independent research and real-world results.
How to Buy Latisse Online in the UK
- Place your order on the official Mylash website.
- Complete the short online medical questionnaire.
- A UK-registered doctor reviews your details to ensure it’s safe for you.
- Once approved, your prescription is dispensed and shipped directly to you.
We do not guarantee that everyone is suitable to use this treatment. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a significant eye condition for example, we would not recommend this for you and you would not be charged.
Growth Treatment
Grow your eyelashes with the UK equivalent of Latisse – the same active ingredient of bimatoprost 0.03%
Founded in 2007, MyLash was the first UK services to make Latisse available in Europe. Our team has helped tens of thousands of clients achieve longer, thicker lashes under medical supervision.
We have been featured in multiple UK magazines and newspapers, recognised for our scientific approach to lash and brow growth.
Why Choose MyLash?
- Doctor-prescribed treatment — safe, genuine Latisse
- Home delivery anywhere in the UK
- Established since 2007, trusted by thousands
- Featured in major UK publications
- Scientifically led, developed by Dr Tom Walker and run by a team of UK doctors
If you’re looking for Latisse in the UK, remember: Boots doesn’t sell it, but you can safely and conveniently obtain it here from Mylash, the UK’s specialist eyelash growth clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The NHS does not fund or prescribe Latisse, because eyelash growth is considered a cosmetic indication rather than a medical one. The NHS can only prescribe medicines for recognised medical conditions, not for aesthetic enhancement.
Most NHS GPs cannot issue private cosmetic prescriptions. A small number of private doctors may prescribe bimatoprost off-label, but it’s uncommon. For convenience and safety, it’s best to use a well established medical service such as MyLash.org, where licensed UK doctors can prescribe it legally and supply it directly to your door.
This is not possible as they cannot prescribe for cosmetic reasons.
Yes. Both contain the same active ingredient, bimatoprost 0.03%. The difference is in the branding, applicator design, and use. Latisse is approved in the US for eyelash growth, while Lumigan is licensed in the UK for eye conditions.
No and you shouldn’t. Latisse and bimatoprost are prescription-only medicines (POM). Websites offering them without a consultation are often unregulated and may sell counterfeit or contaminated products.
The difference lies in regulatory systems. In the US, the FDA licenses indications to a brand (Latisse for eyelash growth). In the UK, the MHRA licenses indications to a molecule (bimatoprost). If the indication were approved here, it would apply to all forms of bimatoprost, not just Allergan’s Latisse, removing brand exclusivity. This is likely to be why the product was never launched under that name in Europe.
Since 2007. MyLash was one of the first UK services to provide access to prescription lash treatments under medical supervision. Our doctors have helped thousands of clients grow longer, thicker lashes safely and effectively.
After your online consultation is approved, your prescription is dispensed by our UK pharmacy partners and delivered straight to your door. It is fast, discreet, and convenient. There’s no need to visit a pharmacy in person.
Yes when prescribed appropriately and used as directed. It’s well-studied and has a strong safety profile. The most common side effects are mild irritation or temporary darkening of the lash line. Treatments at MyLash.org are prescribed under UK medical supervision to ensure safe, effective use.
Complete an online medical consultation with MyLash.org. Our doctors review your suitability, issue a prescription if appropriate, and arrange direct home delivery from our UK pharmacy. We’ve provided this service safely since 2007.
