UK Bimatoprost Eyelash Treatment In Test Phase

We reported last week that Lumigan eye drops, used to treat Glaucoma, had been noted as having a positive effect on user's eyelash growth. As a result of this unexpected side effect, studies went on to show that bimatoprost, the active ingredient in Lumigan, also stimulated hair growth in scalp follicles, leading scientists to ponder the possibility of a hair loss treatment based on this discovery.

The Eyes Have It

It now transpires that the company responsible for putting Botox on the market six years ago,  Allergan, have created a product called Latisse, which is being marketed as a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis (sparse eyelashes) to grow eyelashes longer, fuller and darker.

The main ingredient of Latisse is in fact bimatoprost at 0.93%, and the product is already available as a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis in America, Canada and India. The MHRA are currently testing the product in order to determine whether or not it can be sold in the UK.

Results At A Risk

Interestingly, research has shown that Latisse doubles lash thickness, and makes them up to 25% longer and 18% darker within eight weeks when applied like eyeliner on a daily basis. However, it is not without its side effects, which can include increased pigmentation of the coloured part of the eye, itchy red eyes and hair growing on the parts of the skin that Latisse frequently touches.

If a product containing bimatoprost becomes licensed in the UK for increased eyelash and eyebrow growth, it may signal a potential scalp hair loss treatment in the pipeline, too. However, with extensive testing and possible side effects to contend with, it remains likely that a bimatoprost hair loss treatment is not around the corner.

If you're experiencing thinning of your scalp hair, it is advisable to act as soon as possible in order to promptly halt the rate of loss and attempt to regrow the relevant areas using clinically proven medication minoxidil which we offer at The Belgravia Centre (after a diagnosis from one of our hair loss experts to ensure that that manner of treatment is appropriate). Once completely devoid of hair, that section of the scalp will not be able to regrow it, so it is crucial to seek treatment beforehand in order to avoid more expensive and severe forms of treatment such as a hair transplant.