A UK study published in a March 2010 issue of the Daily Mail revealed that women spend about $14,000 on makeup during their lifetime. A chunk of this is spent on products and treatments that make eyelashes look long and voluminous. However, the safety of some of these products is debatable. As of July 2010 there is only one drug approved by the FDA for eyelash treatments. There are, however, many over-the-counter cosmetic items available.
Latisse
Latisse is the first and only FDA approved drug to treat hypotrichosis, a condition that affects the growth of the eyelashes. The active ingredient, bimatoprost, was first used in patients with glaucoma. Patients treated with the drug experienced longer, fuller eyelashes as a side effect, so cosmetic drug maker Allergan put bimatoprost to the test for growing longer, thicker, darker eyelashes. Latisse received FDA approval in 2008 and became available by prescription in 2009. Patients apply Latisse daily to the top of the lash line, with full results between eight to 16 weeks. The downside is that once you stop using Latisse, your lash growth will return to its previous state. Latisse side effects may include eye irritation, dry eyes and skin darkening.
LiLash
LiLash is a lash stimulator made from a glycol-peptide found in sweet almonds. It is a physician-formulated, clinically tested cosmetic that claims to grow longer, thicker lashes. According to the manufacturers of LiLash, you should see full results after six weeks of daily use. LiLash is applied to the skin of the upper eyelid as you would apply liquid eyeliner. As with all products to be used near your eyes, you should discontinue use if you experience redness or irritation of the eyes.
LashFood
LashFood is a drug-free, natural eyelash conditioner that claims to stimulate growth of longer, darker, fuller eyelashes. Used from natural products, not chemicals, this cosmetic product conditions the eyelashes with biotin and arginine, a complex of natural amino acids. Partial results are said to become apparent after two weeks and full results after two to three months. LashFood eyelash treatment is a drug-free, natural cosmetic that delivers nutrients at the cellular level.
Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara
Revlon has been clinically tested and is considered safe as a cosmetic. This mascara contains conditioning ingredients that help improve eyelash health and stimulates longer, thicker eyelashes, but is drug-free. This is the first Revlon mascara that stimulates eyelash growth while adding length and volume.
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