A factual UK guide
Latisse Eyelash Serum: What It Is and UK Availability
Latisse is a prescription eyelash treatment available in the United States. Latisse lash serum contains bimatoprost and is used for inadequate eyelash growth. Branded Latisse is not marketed in the UK as a licensed eyelash growth product. This guide explains what Latisse is, what the clinical evidence shows, its limitations and possible side effects, and the position for people searching for Latisse in the UK.
What is Latisse lash serum?
Latisse is the US brand name for bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03% when it is supplied for the treatment of eyelash enhancement. It is to help people with inadequate or insufficient eyelashes by increasing eyelash growth including the length, thickness and darkness of the lashes.
Bimatoprost was already used as an eye drop for raised intraocular pressure before its effect on eyelashes was confirmed. The US Food and Drug Administration approved Latisse in December 2008. It is therefore a prescription treatment and not an ordinary cosmetic.
Brand
Latisse is a US brand name.
Active ingredient
Bimatoprost at 0.3 mg/mL, commonly written as 0.03%.
Purpose
Treatment of inadequate eyelashes by increasing growth, thickness and darkness.
Terminology: people commonly search for "Latisse lash serum" or "Latisse eyelash serum". The official US label describes it as bimatoprost ophthalmic solution applied to the eyelid margin. Calling it a serum does not change its status as a prescription treatment.
Is Latisse eyelash serum available in the UK?
The Latisse brand is not marketed in the UK as a licensed treatment for eyelash growth. Its US approval does not automatically mean that the bimatoprost eyelash treatment can be sold under the Latisse brand. Approval in one country does not simply transfer to another.
Bimatoprost is not unknown in the UK. Bimatoprost eye drops are licensed for glaucoma or ocular hypertension, and it is commonly available.
UK prescribing can sometimes involve a medicine outside the precise terms of its marketing authorisation. This is generally described as off label prescribing. It is an individual clinical decision made in the best interests of the patient.
Can you buy Latisse in the UK?
You should not expect to find genuine branded Latisse offered as a normal UK retail cosmetic - you simply cannot buy it over the counter like you would buy a mascara. In the United States Latisse is a prescription treatment so you have to buy it after a consultation.
The appropriate UK pathway for a person concerned about sparse, damaged or thinning eyelashes is a consultation about the available options.
What does Latisse contain?
The active ingredient in Latisse is bimatoprost 0.3 mg/mL which is equivalent to 0.03%. Bimatoprost is a synthetic structural analogue of prostaglandin. The US label describes Latisse as a clear, colourless, sterile ophthalmic solution.
| Component or feature | Latisse product information | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Bimatoprost 0.3 mg/mL (0.03%) | The pharmacologically active substance associated with eyelash growth. |
| Preservative | Benzalkonium chloride | Relevant to contact lenses, tolerability and formulation. |
| Dosage form | Sterile solution | It is not simply a cosmetic serum. |
| Application system | Precise applicators supplied with the product | Relevant to application and contamination control. |
How does Latisse eyelash serum work?
Eyelashes pass through a cycle of active growth, transition, shedding and rest. The precise mechanism by which bimatoprost increases eyelash prominence is not fully established. The Latisse product information states that eyelash growth is believed to occur by increasing the proportion of hairs in the active growth phase and extending the duration of that phase.
This is very different from the action of a conventional cosmetic conditioner. A cosmetic lash serum may coat, moisturise or reduce breakage of the existing lash fibre. Bimatoprost acts on the hair growth process. That difference helps to explain both its clinical effect and why medical precautions are relevant.
Change in the growth cycle
More follicles remain in the active growth phase for longer, allowing lashes to become more prominent over time.
Not an instant cosmetic effect
The response develops over weeks. Applying it more frequently than directed was not shown to produce greater growth in the US trials.
The studies used for FDA approval also reported very low concentrations of bimatoprost in the blood when it was used on the eye in a small pharmacokinetic study. This does not mean that the product is free from systemic or local risk. It also does not remove the need to consider pregnancy, breastfeeding, other eye conditions and concurrent medicines.
What do the clinical trials and longer term studies of bimatoprost show?
The evidence for eyelash growth is not limited to the original Latisse registration trial. Published research includes randomised placebo controlled trials, a 12 month multicentre study, pooled safety data from six controlled trials, studies in Japanese participants, a smaller independent randomised study using a bimatoprost gel, and a real world observational study of people who had used bimatoprost 0.03% for at least one year.
Most papers use the generic name bimatoprost rather than the brand name "Latisse". This is normal in scientific research because the paper is studying the active compound rather than simply discussing a brand. The published evidence consistently shows that bimatoprost 0.03%, when applied once daily to the upper eyelid margin under the studied conditions, increases eyelash prominence, length, thickness and darkness. The longer term studies also provide reassuring information about safety and tolerability, although they do not show that treatment is free from risk.
A note about the word "placebo": the published studies usually describe the inactive comparison solution as the "vehicle". It contained the same inactive ingredients but no bimatoprost. I use the word "placebo" in this guide because it is easier to understand.
Mylash experience since 2007: Mylash has provided medical consultations for eyelash growth concerns since 2007. This experience has helped us understand the questions patients commonly ask, the importance of assessing individual suitability, and the need to explain realistic treatment timescales, correct application and possible adverse effects. Our clinical experience does not replace controlled research, and no treatment is suitable or effective for every person.
Summary of the evidence: controlled studies support the effectiveness of bimatoprost for eyelash growth, including continued effectiveness during treatment for up to 12 months. Pooled and observational data suggest that adverse effects are usually mild, local and reversible, with low discontinuation rates. The longest randomised evidence extends to one year. The largest real world study found high levels of satisfaction after an average treatment period of about 19 months.
The original randomised trial
The principal adult study was a multicentre, double masked, randomised, placebo controlled trial involving 278 adults. Participants used either bimatoprost 0.03% or an inactive comparison solution on the upper eyelid margin. At week 16, 78.1% of the bimatoprost group had improved by at least one level on the Global Eyelash Assessment scale, compared with 18.4% of the placebo group. Digital image analysis also found significantly greater increases in eyelash length, thickness and darkness with bimatoprost. Read the study on PubMed.
| Outcome at week 16 | Bimatoprost 0.03% | Placebo |
|---|---|---|
| At least one grade improvement in overall eyelash prominence | 78% | 18% |
| Average change in eyelash length | 1.4 mm; 25% increase from the starting measurement | 0.1 mm; 2% increase |
| Average change in thickness | 0.7 mm²; 106% increase from the starting measurement | 0.1 mm²; 12% increase |
| Average change in darkness | 18% increase in darkness | 3% increase in darkness |
These figures are often quoted without context. The "106%" result does not mean that every participant grew twice as many eyelashes. It refers to the average change in the area measurement used by the researchers to assess eyelash thickness and fullness.
A 12 month randomised controlled study
A later multicentre, double masked study followed 368 adults for one year. It included 238 people seeking longer lashes for cosmetic reasons and 130 whose eyelash loss followed chemotherapy. The trial was divided into two 6 month treatment periods. This allowed the researchers to examine continued treatment, delayed treatment and the effect of stopping treatment.
Improvements achieved by month 6 were maintained through month 12 in the cosmetic group who continued treatment and were further enhanced in the post chemotherapy group. The study reported no serious adverse events related to treatment and concluded that once daily bimatoprost 0.03% was effective and well tolerated. In those who stopped after six months, much of the treatment effect was still present two months later, but it diminished over the following four to six months. This supports the view that continued use is normally required to maintain the effect. Read the full open access study.
Cosmetic use
The one year trial showed a clear advantage over placebo during the controlled period. Benefits were maintained during continued treatment but gradually receded after treatment was withdrawn.
After chemotherapy
Bimatoprost accelerated eyelash recovery beyond the natural regrowth seen with placebo. A dedicated analysis reported continued improvement through 12 months in participants who remained on treatment.
Real world use for longer than one year
A retrospective review and observational study examined 585 adults who had used bimatoprost 0.03% for at least 12 months for cosmetic eyelash growth. The average treatment duration was 19.3 months, with a reported range of 12 to 30.7 months. The study found that 92.5% said they were satisfied or very satisfied with their long term results and 87.4% were still using it.
Adverse events were recalled by 27.4% of participants, but the great majority were mild. No serious or severe adverse events were reported and no cases of iris hyperpigmentation were reported. Fewer than 2% stopped because of adverse effects. The most commonly recalled effects included skin pigmentation, itching, eyelid redness and eye irritation.
Many long term users had reduced their application frequency after the initial treatment period, averaging about three applications per week for maintenance. This provides useful information about how some people used treatment outside controlled trials, but it should not be taken as advice to reduce application frequency. A person's treatment schedule should be decided through their own clinical care. Read the long term observational study on PubMed.
Important limitation: this observational study included only people who had already used bimatoprost for at least a year. This creates a self selection effect, because people who stopped early because treatment did not work, was inconvenient or caused adverse effects were less likely to be represented. The study is reassuring, but it is weaker evidence than a well designed randomised trial.
Pooled safety evidence from six randomised trials
A pooled safety analysis combined six randomised, double masked studies conducted in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Japan. It included 680 adults exposed to bimatoprost 0.03% and 379 who received the placebo solution. Treatment duration ranged from at least three months to as long as 12 months.
Across these studies, the most commonly reported problems in the bimatoprost group included conjunctival redness, eyelid itching, eyelid skin pigmentation, eyelid redness and punctate keratitis. Most adverse events occurred early, were mild, were local to the treatment area and resolved after treatment was stopped. Discontinuation because of adverse events was low: 3.2% with bimatoprost and 2.4% with placebo. No new or unexpected safety signal emerged with treatment lasting up to one year. Read the full pooled safety analysis.
| Study | Design and duration | Main contribution | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smith et al., 2012 | 278 adults; randomised, double masked and placebo controlled; 5 months | Established clear improvements in prominence, length, thickness and darkness compared with placebo. | Relatively short duration. |
| Glaser et al., 2015 | 368 adults; randomised and double masked; 12 months | Showed continuing effectiveness and tolerability for one year, both for cosmetic improvement and for eyelash loss after chemotherapy. | The comparison group did not always continue for the full year. |
| Yoelin et al., 2014 | 585 long term users; observational; average exposure of 19.3 months | Added real world information about satisfaction, use and safety beyond 12 months. | Retrospective, self selected population with possible recall and survivor bias. |
| Wirta et al., 2015 | Pooled six randomised trials; 680 bimatoprost participants and 379 placebo participants; up to 12 months | Provided the broadest controlled safety analysis and found no new safety signal with longer exposure. | The pooled analysis was largely based on studies sponsored by the manufacturer. |
Evidence in different populations and formulations
Two randomised, double masked studies in Japanese adults included 173 participants seeking cosmetic eyelash enhancement and 36 with eyelash loss after chemotherapy. At month 4, there was significant improvement in eyelash growth in 77.3% of bimatoprost treated participants compared with 17.6% who received placebo in the cosmetic study. The corresponding figures were 88.9% and 27.8% in the post chemotherapy study. Length, thickness and darkness improved significantly. These shorter studies support the reproducibility of the effect in Japanese participants. Read the Japanese studies.
A separate six month randomised study at Duke University tested a bimatoprost 0.03% gel formulation in 52 adults. The average increase in eyelash length was 0.77 mm with bimatoprost, compared with a reduction of 0.12 mm in the control group. However, adverse effects were more frequent with the active gel. Intraocular pressure fell by about 2 mmHg and one participant developed recurrent anterior uveitis. Since the formulation and application method differed from the usual Latisse protocol, the results should not be treated as interchangeable with the larger trials. They nevertheless reinforce both the biological effect of bimatoprost and the reason that medical screening and careful use matter. Read the gel study on PubMed.
How strong is the longer term evidence?
Taken together the evidence supports a firm conclusion that bimatoprost 0.03% is effective at increasing eyelash growth. The one year randomised trial and the pooled analysis also support a favourable safety and tolerability profile for up to 12 months. The 585 patient observational study provides additional reassurance over an average period of approximately 19 months.
There are still important boundaries to that conclusion. Most of the major studies were funded by the manufacturer and several authors were employees, consultants or investigators for the company. This does not invalidate the findings, but it should be considered when interpreting the evidence.
Mylash's experience since 2007 informs its approach to patient assessment, counselling and monitoring. It is not presented as evidence that bimatoprost is safe or effective. The conclusions about effectiveness and safety in this section are drawn from the published studies.
It is therefore more accurate to say that the published evidence shows consistent effectiveness and a generally favourable safety profile under the conditions studied rather than to describe bimatoprost as completely safe.
How long does Latisse take to work?
The effect is gradual. In the principal trial differences between bimatoprost and placebo were statistically significant by week 8 and continued through weeks 12 and 16.
Weeks 1 to 4
Early changes may be subtle. In a study it was found that 15% of the Latisse group seen a significant improvement by week 4.
Week 8
The same study showed that half of the Latisse group had achieved significant growth compared with 15% of the placebo group.
Week 12
The corresponding figures were 69% and 20%.
Week 16
The primary endpoint was assessed: 78% of the Latisse users and 18% of the placebo group had seen significant improvement.
A gradual response is biologically plausible because the treatment influences a hair growth cycle rather than instantly altering the visible lash. Expectations of dramatic change within a few days are not consistent with the clinical evidence.
What happens when Latisse is stopped?
The effect is not permanent. The Latisse label states that eyelash growth is expected to return towards the level present before treatment after treatment is discontinued. In the principal study a four week follow up period showed that the effects had begun to return towards baseline and the Latisse label states that the growth effect is expected to diminish when discontinued.
This does not usually mean that all enhanced lashes disappear at the same moment. Individual lashes remain at different stages of their growth cycle. As the treated lashes shed and are replaced, the overall appearance is expected to move gradually back towards the person's original baseline.
Practical implication: Latisse is not described as a single course course producing permanent lash growth. Continued effect depends on continued treatment, balanced against tolerability, clinical appropriateness and the person's preferences.
Latisse side effects, precautions and contraindications
The fact that Latisse was studied and authorised in the United States does not mean that it has no side effects. The most frequently reported adverse reactions in the four month FDA approval trial were itchy eyes, conjunctival redness, skin hyperpigmentation, eye irritation, dry eye symptoms and redness around the eye. Each occurred in fewer than 4% of trial participants.
Important local effects
Eyelid and skin pigmentation
Darkening of the eyeline can occur. The Latisse label says this was reported to be reversible after stopping in most patients but reversibility should not be assumed in every case.
Iris pigmentation
Increased brown pigmentation of the iris has occurred with bimatoprost when it is applied directly onto the eye. It is likely to be permanent. It may develop gradually over months or years.
Hair outside the intended area
Repeated contact with nearby skin can cause hair growth outside the upper eyelid margin.
Periorbital changes
Postmarketing reports include periorbital fat atrophy, skin tightness, deepening of the upper eyelid sulcus and eyelid drooping. The frequency cannot be reliably calculated from voluntary reports.
Eye conditions requiring particular care
The Latisse label advises caution in active intraocular inflammation and in people with risk factors for macular oedema. It also highlights interaction with prostaglandin analogue eye drops used to lower intraocular pressure. People using glaucoma treatment or other pressure lowering eye medicines require clinical review rather than self-selection of treatment.
Contact lenses
The Latisse instructions require lenses to be removed before application and not reinserted for at least 15 minutes.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and age
There are no adequate studies for using Latisse when pregnant and it is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It is not known whether topical ocular treatment produces detectable amounts in human milk. Children and adolescents require specialist consideration; this page is written for an adult UK audience and is not guidance for paediatric treatment.
Seek medical advice promptly for significant eye pain, marked redness, change in vision, swelling, signs of infection, or a new or worsening eye condition.
Is Latisse the same as other bimatoprost treatments?
Latisse contains bimatoprost 0.03% but the name "Latisse" refers to a particular brand in America.
Lumigan 0.03% and Latisse both contain bimatoprost 0.03% as their active ingredient. The liquid formulations are the same but they were licensed for different purposes. Lumigan came first and was licensed to lower raised pressure inside the eye in conditions such as glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The formulation was then released as Latisse specifically for improving eyelash growth.
One practical difference is the way they are supplied. Latisse is packaged with applicators designed for application along the eyelid margin. Lumigan is supplied as an eye drop and does not include applicators. Although the active ingredient and concentration are the same, the products have different approved indications, packaging and instructions for use.
Latisse compared with cosmetic eyelash serums
The term "lash serum" covers products with very different purposes. Latisse is a prescription treatment available in America and intended to alter eyelash growth. Many cosmetic eyelash serums are designed primarily to condition lashes, improve flexibility, reduce breakage or enhance their appearance. These are not equivalent claims.
| Feature | Latisse | Conventional cosmetic lash serum |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory category | Prescription treatment in the United States | Cosmetic, provided its composition and claims remain within cosmetic rules |
| Main intended action | Pharmacological effect on eyelash growth | Conditioning, moisturising, coating or reducing breakage |
| Evidence | Randomised placebo controlled study for the authorised US product | Varies widely by ingredient and product; evidence may be instrumental, based on consumer reports or absent |
| Medical assessment | Prescription and clinical consideration are required in its authorised market | Usually purchased directly by the consumer |
| Risk profile | Includes specific ocular and periocular warnings | Usually lower pharmacological risk, but irritation and allergy remain possible |
The comparison becomes more complicated where a product sold as a cosmetic contains a prostaglandin analogue or makes claims to stimulate new growth. UK product classification depends on composition, function and presentation, not simply on the word "serum" on the packaging.
UK options for people concerned about eyelash growth
Sparse or shorter eyelashes are not always a simple cosmetic issue. Some people naturally have less prominent lashes. Others notice a change after repeated extensions, mechanical damage, skin disease, inflammation, medicine, nutritional problems, alopecia, cancer treatment or another medical condition.
A sensible assessment starts with the pattern and timing of the change rather than with a predetermined product. Depending on the circumstances, options may include:
Reviewing possible causes
A new, patchy, one sided or otherwise unexplained loss of eyelashes may warrant medical assessment rather than immediate cosmetic treatment.
Reducing avoidable damage
Changes to extensions, adhesives, cleansing, rubbing, curlers, waterproof mascara or sleep-related friction may help where breakage is contributing.
Cosmetic conditioning
A non medicinal serum may help condition the lash fibre or reduce breakage, but should not be represented as producing a prescription medicine effect without appropriate evidence.
Medical consultation
Where clinically appropriate, a prescriber can discuss treatment options after reviewing medical history, eye history, other medicines and individual risk.
No consultation can guarantee a prescription or a particular medicine. The purpose of assessment is to decide what is appropriate for the individual.
Medical consultations for eyelash growth concerns
Mylash provides cosmetic products and doctor led consultations for anyone concerned about the appearance, condition or growth of their eyelashes. Our team will consider your history, possible causes and suitable management options.
Learn about consultations for eyelash growth concernsFrequently asked questions about Latisse
Is Latisse an eyelash serum?
It is commonly called a lash or eyelash serum but Latisse is a prescription medicine in the United States. Its active ingredient is bimatoprost 0.03%.
Is Latisse available in the UK?
Latisse is not marketed as a licensed in the UK branded treatment for eyelash growth. UK bimatoprost eye medicines may be licensed for other eye conditions, which is a different regulatory position.
Does Mylash sell Latisse?
No. Mylash does not sell Latisse. This page provides factual information about the US brand and offers a link to a general consultation service for concerns about eyelash growth.
What is the active ingredient in Latisse?
The active ingredient is bimatoprost at 0.3 mg/mL, equivalent to 0.03%.
How long does Latisse take to work?
The effect is gradual. In the principal study, clear group differences were present by week 8 and continued through week 16. The US label says that the onset is not significant for most patients until about two months.
Are Latisse results permanent?
No. The US label states that the eyelash effect is expected to return gradually towards the before treatment level after treatment is stopped.
Can Latisse change eye colour?
Bimatoprost can increase brown iris pigmentation, and the US label warns that this is likely to be permanent. The change may develop slowly over months or years.
Is any bimatoprost 0.03% product the same as Latisse?
No conclusion of equivalence should be based on the active ingredient and concentration alone. Formulation, sterility, container, applicator, indication, evidence and regulatory status also matter.
Sources and further reading
- US National Library of Medicine, DailyMed. LATISSE (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03%: current US prescribing information, revised July 2024. View the official label.
- US Food and Drug Administration. NDA 22-369 approval letter for Latisse, December 2008. View the FDA approval letter.
- Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Bimatoprost: patient information on off label use for eyelash growth. View the NHS information.
- Electronic Medicines Compendium. LUMIGAN 0.3 mg/mL eye drops : Summary of Product Characteristics. This source concerns ocular use for raised intraocular pressure and is cited for broader bimatoprost safety context, not as evidence that the product is interchangeable with Latisse. View the SmPC.
Medical and regulatory information can change. The licensing position and official product information should be checked when this page is reviewed. This article provides general information and does not replace an individual consultation with an appropriately qualified clinician.
About the author
Dr Tom Walker, MBChB, founded Mylash in 2007. He has a medical degree and a separate degree in anatomy from the University of Glasgow. Mylash has provided medical consultations for eyelash growth concerns since 2007.