Lumigan Eyelash Serum – How Does it Work?
When it comes to boosting eyelashes, the world is awash with serums claiming to be ‘the best’. However, few have the same cult following as Revitalash and Rapidlash, both of which are said to boost lashes by up to 50%. The secret to their success is a key ingredient called bimatoprost which is also the main active in prescription-only eyelash serum uk, Lumigan (known as Latisse in the US). So how does it work and why is it different from other non-drug PGA-based serums?
Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analogue, a class of compounds which act as chemical messengers in the body to regulate many different cycles and events, including hair growth. Bimatoprost stimulates the growth of hair follicles by increasing the percentage of follicles that are in their anagen phase of the cycle, which results in longer, thicker lashes.
The FDA approved Lumigan eyelash serum contains a high concentration of the ingredient, and it’s dispensed via small eyedropper droplets that are applied to the skin at the base of the upper eyelid each evening after properly washing the face and removing makeup if worn. It usually takes 10 to 30 days of use for people to notice more eyelash growth, and the full effect is typically seen after 16 weeks.
Lumigan is available in the UK as a prescription for hypotrichosis, a condition that causes thin or sparse eyelashes, from doctors who have had specific training to prescribe it. It is manufactured by Allergan, the same company that makes Botox, and is clinically proven to increase lash length, thickness and darkness.
Some common side effects of using the drug include red and itchy eyes, which may sting when applying the product, as well as the feeling that something is in your eye. This is likely to subside as the body gets used to the medication, and these symptoms can be counteracted by using cold water compresses on the eyes. The most worrying side effect is that it can darken the iris and pupil in some individuals, but this only occurs in a tiny number of cases and would need to be used for a long period of time for this to occur.
It is important that you tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, especially herbal or nutritional supplements as they may interact with the drug. Some medicines, particularly those for treating high blood pressure, can increase the effect of bimatoprost and should be avoided if possible.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding you should not use this medicine as it is likely to be harmful to your unborn baby. If you are breast-feeding, it is likely that your baby will get some of the medication through your milk and this can cause harm.
The only known serious side effect of this medication is that it can increase your chances of developing glaucoma, so you must see your doctor regularly for eye examinations. If you develop any signs of glaucoma such as blurred vision, a sudden loss of vision or increased pressure in your eye, you must seek immediate medical attention. bimatoprost eyelash serum uk