Is Your Lash Growth Serum Causing Lasting Damage?

10:04 PM

What do women want? The results of a 2014 Allergan survey showed 75% of women age 18-65 want longer, thicker and darker eyelashes. It was that kind of overpowering demand from market research that drove Allergan to bring Latisse to market, their blockbuster lash growth serum that shows clinically significant changes to lash length, thickness, and darkness within 16 weeks of use.  The results speak for themselves:


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But what is the real price of longer lashes? Latisse has well documented side effect potential. The main active ingredient bimatoprost is a chemical known as a prostaglandin analogue. Prostaglandins are chemical compounds found in naturally within almost all of our body's tissue that are responsible for signaling inflammation within the body. As such, it's no surprise that Latisse has been associated with common symptoms of inflammation around the eyes like swollen lids (also called chemosis), redness, itching, and watering. FDA clinical testing show about 4% of Latisse users experience itching, redness, and watering, while a much lower number experience an allergic reaction causing the eyelids to swell. In addition to chronic irritation, Latisse has also been known to darken the eyelid skin and the color of the iris in people with light brown or hazel eyes, as well as potentially causing a sunken eye appearance by shrinking the layers of orbital fat around the eye socket. 


Popular beauty blogger Kate of The Small Things Blog shared the dry eye side effects that made her quit Latisse on her blog. via

It's easy to brush off eye irritation as no big deal, but ocular surface dysfunction and chronic dry eye can take a permanent and lasting toll on your vision quality and ocular comfort. Prostaglandin analogues have been used for decades in glaucoma treatment (including bimatoprost - the main active ingredient in Latisse), and studies have confirmed that they are strongly related to lasting dry eye issues.  In fact just under 50% of all patients on prostaglandin analogue eye drops for the treatment of glaucoma also have a diagnosis of clinically significant chronic dry eye disease.  While the preservatives in medications like Latisse or glaucoma drops have historically been blamed as the main culprit in causing dry eye, we know now that prostaglandin analogues in and of themselves can cause significant dry eye disease.

By promoting inflammation on the ocular surface, prostaglandin analogues can disrupt tear film production and expression at all layers.  This includes the water layer of our tear film expressed by the lacrimal gland and the mucin layer expressed by the goblet cells on the surface of the conjunctiva. Inflammation also promotes thickening of the oil secretions (sebum) expressed by sebaceous glands in our eyelids. The meibomian (sebaceous) glands run vertically through our top and bottom eyelids and are responsible for secreting the top coat oils that hold the water and mucin layers of our tear film onto the surface of the eye.
Inflammation causing dry eye can disrupt the ocular surface at every level. via

Every time we blink, the meibomian glands secrete their oil. If that oil is too thick, it's difficult for the eyelids to spread it evenly over the surface of the eye --more like toothpaste than olive oil. It may even get so thick that the oil blocks and backs up in the gland.  This will slowly but surely damage the gland permanently. If the meibomian glands atrophy or die off, the body is not able to repair the tissue and the gland becomes permanently nonfunctional.  The result is irreversible and often severe dry eye. 2015 study showed a shocking 91.7% of patients treated with prostaglandin analogue drops for glaucoma had meibomian gland disease, versus only 57.7% of patients being treated for glaucoma on a different category of medication.

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What's gotten more press than the possible risk of permanent and irreversible dryness and ocular surface damage caused by Latisse or other prostaglandin analogue agents is the financial cost. At around $130 per month, prescription lash growth isn't cheap. Over the counter alternatives have increasingly gained popularity due to this price point, but unfortunately the fact that they are not prescription leads some to falsely feel they must also be safer.  A list of the ingredients of one of the most popular over the counter lash growth serum, Rodan and Fields Lash Boost, shows a not-so-friendly potential dry eye culprit:

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Keratin, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Biotin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Isopropyl Cloprostenate, Octapeptide-2, Allantoin, Panthenol, Copper Tripeptide-1, Pantethine, Polypeptide-23, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Extract, Glycerin, Sea Water, Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract , Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Fruit Extract, Backhousia Citriodora Leaf Oil, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Rhizobian Gum, Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, PVP, Lecithin, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Alcohol Denat, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide

What is Isopropyl Cloprostenate? It's a synthetic prostaglandin analogue. As such it has the same method of action described above, and yes all the same potential side effect profile.  In fact, the FDA issued a warning to OTC lash serum makers back in 2011 about the potential dangers of including a synthetic version of a prescription product with known FDA-studied side effect profile in their formulations. Statements from companies claiming that they "contain no active medical ingredient" like this from the FAQ for Rodan and Fields Lash Boost makes it all the more confusing for potential patients trying to do their due diligence if they know they have a previous diagnosis of dry eye or are at increased risk. 


The advertising claims that this product is safe, but it contains a synthetic version of the same chemical category (prostaglandin analogues) that have proven dry eye and ocular surface side effects in glaucoma medications.

Here's a list of the most popular OTC lash growth serums using synthetic prostaglandin analogues in their formulas:
  • Xlash Eyelash Enhancer
  • Neulash
  • NeuveauBrow
  • RevitaLash
  • Nutraluxe MD Lash
  • M2 Lashes Eyelash activating serum
  • Peter Thomas Roth Lashes to die for Platinum
  • Rodan and Fields Lash Boost

Take Home: If you have chronic dry eye, or experience any increase in redness, watering, or eye irritation using these products, understand that you may be causing permanent damage to your delicate tear film and ocular surface. Listen to your body and discontinue use immediately if you experience any symptoms. There is a major push within the medical community to have the FDA put stronger regulations on beauty products that are using chemicals with known side effects without disclosing the risks involved, but regulation and oversight may be many years away. Just because a product is over the counter, doesn't mean that it is safe.  Make sure you read the ingredients closely on all cosmetic and facial products that you use, and if you spot Isopropyl Cloprostenate in any product you are using around your eyelid, consider that lasting dry eye issues could result as a side effect.

Want to learn more?  Check out this podcast with Dr. Leslie O'Dell, Dr. Laura Periman, and Amy Gallant Sullivan, the executive director of the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society.

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119 comments

  1. Hi there - Thank you for this. I started using Nanolash and the effects were incredible. Sadly, by about one month into use, I started developing styes on a monthly basis. Please note that in my 42 years, I have NEVER EVER had a stye. After having four styes (one per month beginning in Oct), February suddenly showed up with two chalazions on my left eye. I mean, it was incredible! A surgeon removed the chalazions and told me that both styes and chalazions are caused by blocked glands.

    Because I am a little slow, and because I really loved Nanolash, I only quit it about a month ago (shortly before the surgery to remove the chalazions) and have not had any issues since. Fingers crossed. But honestly, what an unfortunate side-effect of a product that actually does work.

    Though it has it's own problems (but not styes or chalazions!), I will go back to fake lashes every few months. Thanks for this article. Cheers.

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    1. I had the exact same thing! I first thought it was because of some bacteria in my nanolash serum so I even threw it away and purchased a new one! But I kept getting tiny painful styes around my eyes. Too bad because the serum does work for your eyelashes... but not worth it!

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  2. Hello, My meibomian glands were permanently damaged after using Latisse. I never experienced dry eye symptoms prior to using Latisse. I am unable to wear eye makeup regularly and take doxycycline on a daily basis. A friend selling Rodan and Fields Lash Boost says that the ingredients are safe, but sadly your article indicates otherwise. I hope that people do their research and find your article before their eyes are permanently damaged like mine.

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  3. Great article. I would love to see an additional discussion of periorbital fat atrophy (a very real and COMMON side effect of prostaglandin analogous such as these mentioned here). I so frequently see before and after photos of lash boost where the persons eyeball is much more physically prominent and it appears they no longer have the same level of "hooding" as they do in most before photos. Frequently I see people attributing this to whatever eye cream they are using when in fact it is the prostaglandin analogue causing periorbital fat atrophy. I believe it is unclear as to whether or not it is permanent upon discontinuation (my understanding is that there is a direct relationship to duration of therapy - the longer it is used the less likely to be reversed). This is troubling for myself as a medical professional. I strongly feel there needs to be more discussion around the side effects of prostaglandin analogues.

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    1. Yes! I had the misfortune of experiencing orbital eye fat atrophy after just three weeks of using Latisse. The eyefat returned 100% after about a year of discontinuing this product's use. When a friend became an R+F Rep and recommended LashBoost, I shared my misgivings after my bad experience with Latisse. She reiterated the company line, that [theirs had a different active ingredient, did not require a prescription, and, furthermore, they'd never had anyone suffer orbital eye fat atrophy]. Immediately after beginning to use LashBoost my eyes were severely dry, and just three weeks after using LashBoost, I noticed my orbital eyefat had begun to atrophy just as it did when I used Latisse. Disappointingly, neither product lists orbital eyefat atrophy as a possible side effect in their products' accompanying leaflets. Latisse lists it as a "post-marketing anecdote", but LashBoost makes zero mention of it anywhere.

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    2. I used Rodan & Fields lash serum for only 2 nights and now my eyes feel uncomfortable I have broken capillaries across my eyelids where I applied the serum and my eyes feel dry. Since I only used it for two nights do you think my eyes will go back to normal?

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    3. Hello I used Rodan & Fields lash serum only two or three times and I have broken capillaries along the tops of my eyelashes where I applied it and also my eyes feel dry. The puffiness of my eyelids seems to have subsided but will the dry eye and the broken capillaries go away since I discontinued it after only using it two times perhaps it was 3 I can't remember if you could please let me know I would greatly appreciate it

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    4. You should schedule with a doctor!

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    5. I guarantee you that none of you who had a reaction did a patch test first to avoid any issue. Please also advise people what eyelash extensions can do to them including the glue used or what any other product can do. Like ingredients in makeup, our food we feed our kids, body wash, shampoo, bleach we put in our hair etc etc. The list is never ending. You get my point. Please do your own research. Rodan and Fields Lashboost is made by Dermotologist and is ophthalmologist approved. The safety of our customers is the most important part of our business.

      ENHANCEMENTS_Lash_Boost_FAQs.pdf

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    6. I did a patch test no irritation etc... After 1 full month of using consistently R&F Lash Boost ALL of my lashes broke off and MANY fell out! I stopped use, it's been 1 month and I still have damaged lashes. I NEVER had lash issues before. I tried it as a mascara replacement so I didn't have to spend time on make up. BIGGEST MISTAKE I EVER MADE WAS PURCHASING LASH BOOST. I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN SOMETHING WAS UP WHEN I COULDN'T FIND ANY NEGATIVE REVIEWS ONLINE...SHADY.

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    7. Actually I did a couple of patch tests which were just fine and still I reacted.

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    8. I had a similar experience with Lash Boost. It worked great for two months, then appeared to stop working. I continued using it for another month and my lashes started falling out and breaking in half. I haven’t used it for about 3 months now and I fear they’re permanently ruined. They’re sparse, and, no exaggeration, half the length they were before I started using Lash Boost. I wish I had never used it. At this point, I’d be happy to have my old sparse lashes back. Buyer beware.

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  5. I worry about this as a consumer and I'm trying to avoid it. Like you said, companies are totally misleading/lying to us. It is hard to know by looking at an ingredient list if one of them is a prostaglandin analogue. Could you update this article with a list of known prostaglandin analogues to look out for. Also, a list of safe lash conditioning serums would be helpful. Thanks!

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    1. Will do! I'm definitely planning on updating this with scientific study data as the topic generates more research. At this time isopropyl cloprostenate is the only synthetic prostaglandin I've seen reported. As far as safe last serums that wouldn't cause anyone any possible ocular side effects, I don't know of any. Even if they don't have a prostaglandin, they usually contain preservatives, ethanols, and other known irritants. Depending on your unique body chemistry, you could react negatively to any of these chemicals. Knowng to be aware of side effects and discontinuing if they occur is what I'm hoping we can achieve. Many people are using lash growth serums comfortably, but for those who aren't, they should be aware of the risks and be empowered to make an informed decision.

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    2. I've been using LashExtend by SeneGence International and haven't felt any such side effects. I've checked the tube and from the prostaglandin analogues listed in this article it does not contain any. Dr. L if you would check it out and maybe comment on the this thread? That'd be so cool!

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    3. Yes I would love to know as well!

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    4. Yes, I would love to know as well!

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    5. I went to my eye doctor who was very familiar with R & F, and said she typically has thought them to have good products... But was very concerned about all of the preservatives put into the eye serum. I had to get antibiotics to get the mass of styes under my eyelids under control. It's been weeks now and I still have a bump left on the eyelid which hasn't gone away. I think I pulled out most of my eyelashes when I was trying to squeeze out the pus that was coming out of my glands after I head treated them with a hot face cloth. I am very bothered that products like this are on the market.

      Seems like a class action lawsuit would take care of ensuring harmful ingredients are out and that there is a clear warning given about some of these common adverse reactions.

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    6. Dr L...i used lash boost for appx 2 weeks and now have constant blurry vision--even after stopping use. What tests do i need to see if this will go away or has caused permanant damage to my eye? I am so so saddened by this. I cant focus on anything close or far--it is all blurred.

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    7. After doing some research, I just ordered Nourishlash. It’s all natural & supposedly doesn’t contain any prostaglandins, but you still get great results. I was using RapidLash religiously for about 3-4 weeks, when I came across information about prostaglandins. Needless to say I won’t be using that one anymore.

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  6. Sorry, another ingredient I see in many formulas that people swear by is myristoyl pentapeptide-17. Do you have any information on that? Thanks.

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    1. There isn't a lot of data unfortunately. It stimulates keratin growth but the good news is I don't see any studies specifically linking it to side effects at this time.

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    2. Oh that is listed in the LashExtend that I just commented about! I'm glad to hear at this time you haven't seen any studies linking them to any side effects as listed in the article

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  7. Have you ever heard of VegaLash? Apparently there's a mascara that can be used solo but the company recommends use with its lash serum. Thoughts?
    Btw. I started using lashboost 2 weeks ago and noticed dark circles under my eyes and the skin looks very thin. I wondered if it was my imagination. Thank you for confirming.

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    1. I'm not personally familiar with it, but I would say listen to your body! If your eyes get red or irritated, it's likely causing problems! Having your eyes assessed for dry eye before and then again 3-6 months after you start using is also a great way to find issues.

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    2. Aimee, are you applying Lash Boost on the bottom lashes? It's only supposed to be applied to the top lashes.

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    3. I found you because I am having problems with Rodan & Fields and it didn't make sense to me that I was getting this many styes. Having read your informational article along with scientific data, I am infuriated that this is on the market. I do you notice a discoloration around my eyes but I have a mammoth stye and for other little ones. I had used the product last year one time and I remember my eyes being dry and getting styes but I didn't connect the two. Any paragraph again this year I tried of the product and the symptoms are the same, only worse but I started to think it was due to stress and then my gut told me otherwise so I Googled it. The thing that bothers me the most is the discoloration around my eyelashes on the top lid it's darker. Why has no-one done a class action suit on this is beyond me! It shouldn't be on the market if this is happening

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    4. OMG!!! This explains all my eye issues the past few months. I will thrown away my Lash Booster tonight. I am also going to my doctor to get some type of antibiotic immediately because my eyes are painful.

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  8. Just want to thank you for all this info. I've been using Latisse for a few years, with "okay" results, but eyes are getting more dry ( I do wear contacts which also contributes to dry eyes), but lately have been reading about diminished orbital fat, so certainly don't want tha. All these issues combined convinces me to stop using it now. thanks again!

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  9. I too have experienced eye irritations and actual changes in my vision after using LashBoost. As a R&F rep myself, I was so excited when I got my first tube. I had great results, but my eyes were becoming more and more irritated and dry; so bad that I went to my ophthalmologist one day with a severely irritated eye. I didn't correlate the LashBoost and my symptoms right away, but did back off and only use the product 3 x week, but my eyes were still very irritated. I have also had weird eyelash growth just under my brow. I now have decreased vision and require reading glasses for computer use, just a few months after a perfect eye exam. So, I will not sell or promote this product until there has been further testing. There's a reason similar products require physician supervision. I for one, have discontinued use and pray my eyes and vision return to normal.

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    1. I have used Lash Boost for a couple years and . The last couple .o tha ha e noticed my vision is blurred can't read with my glasses or without them.... as of the weekend I'm discontinuing use.. I pray this vision corrects itself

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  10. What do you think of Jo Mousselli Xtreme Lash Amplifeye? Supposedly the only active ingredients in it are peptides, and many women say it works. I haven't tried it, but would love to find a safe and effective alternative to Latisse. Would this be it?

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    1. I can't find a full ingredient list so it's hard to say.

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    2. I took a photo of the ingredient list at my salon. Can I post a photo here? It's a pretty long list -- would take me a while to type it out. :-)

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    3. Dr.L i use R&F 2 twice and got a stye with redness all over my eyes, i had an upper and lower blefaroplasty and tough it was a reaction, but 3 weeks and the inflamation went away but stillhave a painful style in upper eyelid. Will it go away?

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    4. Definitely schedule with your eye doctor! An active stye will require treatment with antibiotics.

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  11. Hi - this is such helpful information! I was having great results and no irritation with VegaLash. However, I had a family member who had just started selling R+F. I wanted to support her new business- so I switched to LashBoost. Although I didn't have a tingling sensation, the very next day I had red, irritated eyelids and my eyes were tearing up. I roughed it out for a few days thinking it would let up, but it didn't. Then I took a break for a few weeks and just recently started up again. The irritation came right back, which is what prompted me to find this article. I'm going to try to get my money back. This is expensive stuff and it's clearly not going to work for me.

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    1. hmmmm. i’m experiencing the same issues. was wondering if i stopped for a bit, if that would help, but i’m seeing it won’t. i think i’ll try the vega lash.

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  12. What are your thoughts on Elleebana's Elleevate Mascara - that sells itself as a Serum, as well as a Mascara?
    Ingredients: Aqua (Water) Acrylates/Octylacrylamide Copolymer, Polyacrylic Acid, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Carnauba Wax, Ozokerite Wax, Polyvinylpyrrolidone, Bees Wax, Stearic Acid, Triethanolamine, Glycerine, Methyl paraben, Propyl paraben, Phenoxyethanol, Black iron oxide, Keratin, Biotin, Arginine.

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    1. Parabens and phenoxyethanol are known eye irritants

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  13. Rodan + Fields stands by the safety and efficacy of our products, and Lash Boost has been clinically and ophthalmologist tested. As you can understand, we do not control or censor what critics may say about the general use of lash products, even if their commentary does not pertain to the efficacy or safety of our product portfolio.

    To provide more explanation, we can clarify the chemical category in question - prostaglandins. Not all chemicals are created alike. Isopropyl Cloprostenate (ICP) is a cosmetic ingredient, not a medical grade ingredient such as found in prescription lash products with their associated side effects. A good analogy is ethanol, one form is your classic drinking alcohol, such as vodka, which can be consumed, but another form is rubbing alcohol, which is lethal if consumed.

    The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the agency that regulates the safety of ingredients in the US, has allowed ICP for use as a cosmetic, so long as proper cosmetic claims are made. The warning letter cited is old and has been superseded by later FDA action. The company in question agreed to amend its claims to make it clear that it was marketing a cosmetic product, which is now being sold through retail stores. The cited article is a great lesson on the importance of using proper cosmetic claims.

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    1. Your analogy is flawed. Both forms of alcohol can be lethal. Rubbing alcohol made from Ethanol has bitter additives and sometimes poisons to prevent abuse. Otherwise its only difference from vodka is concentration. In the 1920's the US government required poisons to be added to rubbing alcohol to try and prevent it being abused during prohibition.

      The article does a great job of imparting the lesson on the importance of using proper cosmetic claims and terminology to mislead the public into a flase sense of security. The article's point is to be mindful of ALL ingredients that can have permenant, negative, side effects whether they are listed as perscription (generally this only denotes a stronger concentration not a basic increase in danger from the ingredient itself that is unrelated to its concentration) or cosmetic (many ingredients have been pulled from the market after years of cosmetic use due to the realization that they are indeed not safe at any concentration, lead for instance use to be a common cosmetic ingredient).

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    2. Well said, Anonymous (of June 13, 2018)!

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  14. Hi there, I have been using a product called eyenvy, with fabulous eye lash growth result. Sadly I also have started experiencing eye twitches on both eyes, primarily on my left. Do you have any information about this product? Thank you, A

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  15. I think these products are quite safe when used as directed. When prostaglandins are used for glaucoma the quantity of prostaglandin dumped directly into the eye is thousands of times more than when a small amount is applied to the lashes which may transfer to your eye. I have no possible idea how any would get in your eye while using a brow conditioner so that sounds like scare tactics. When used as directed these product are safe. Latisse is a drug and therefore has had tons of testing but most of that testing was not as a lash product but as an eye drop sold as Lumigan, which when tested, was dumped directly into the eye for glaucoma. Latisse is a thin runny product and does not have thickeners or anti-microbial ingredients that are contained in cosmetic lash conditioner which actually makes them safer. Summary: Use as directed and don't put lash conditioners into your eye and you should be fine.

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    1. I agree with you Anon that the studies I've cited here are for prescription prostaglandins. I've been careful to document and label them as such. I would love to read any research done about OTC prostaglandin analogues in lash growth serum investigating rates of meibomian gland dysfunction or ocular surface disease with tests like tear break up time, MMP-9 or inflammatory cytokines on the surface of the eye. I've reached out to see if any company could provide these studies but so far no luck. I have been told that these studies have not been done. As you can see from the comments on this forum, many people are experiencing ocular discomfort, and this article is meant to help explain why they could be getting this irritation. My goal is to help lash growth serum users make informed decisions, not to tell them not to use the products at all. I'm hoping that by raising awareness we can see actual studies on these specific products done so that people with dry eye or meibomian gland dysfunction will have specific product data to judge whether any risks outweigh rewards. This is not an attack of lash growth products, but instead a way to raise awareness of the chemical used therein so people can make an informed decision when they choose to use products in or around their eyes.

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  16. I've been using Lash Boost for only 4 days and my eyes are irritated. Have been since the 2nd day.

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  17. My eyes are uncomfortable after using R&F lashboost for several months. But I have just noticed that the tops of both irises, normally hrown, are significantlt paler, like a cream arc at the top 1/4 of each iris. Have there been any other reports of this condition?

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    1. What you are describing sounds like arcus, an age related change to the cornea that causes a creamy color arc. Your doctor will be able to confirm with you if that is the right diagnosis, so best to seek their care. Unfortunately there is no required FDA clinical testing done on OTC cosmetic products, so we don't know if there is this association.

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  18. Having a list of eye serums that we should watchout for is helpful but could you make a list of eye serums that are safe, don't contain prostaglandin ingredients, and potentially cause eyelash growth?

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    1. I agree that would be great, but I honestly don’t know of any totally safe eyelash growth serums. Anything with preservatives or formaldehyde releasing chemicals could cause eye irritation. It’s person to person how your body chemistry will react. If you have dry or sensitive eyes, it’s best to avoid lash growth chemicals all together and just use Argan oil or purely derived coconut oil or a preservative free tea tree oil based lid cleanser to remove makeup every night.

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  19. I recently tried the eye lash serum from alphaeon due to recommendation from a friend. Been using it about a week and every morning I wake up with bloodshot eyes and an extremely uncomfortable dry feeling. I discontinued for a day and treated my eyes with visine. They cleared up so i tried the serum again. I just woke up with the same irritation! I'm going to discontinue use. It's just a bummer It's $110 and non returnable.

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  20. Hello. Do you know if revive7 is a safe lash serum to use? I bought it because it didn't have the active ingredient of latisse. Sadly my eyesight has also been affected by using Latisse and pray it returns back to normal

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  21. Here are the ingredients of revive 7. They claim organic ingredients and no harmful effects like bimatropost in Latisse: purified water,sodium chloride, benzalkonium chloride, citric acid, disodium phosphate, cellulose gum.

    Do you know if any of these ingredients can cause blurriness or other side effects? Right now I've stopped using Latisse as I have found dryness and eyes to be getting blurry with continued use over 5 months. I really don't want to risk any further eye complications.

    Does pure castor oil work for lash growth? Any side effects?

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    1. Benzalkonium chloride is a harsh preservative known to cause redness, irritation, and dry eye

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    2. Thanks Dr L. I decided to not use it since my eyes were really dry before. i've been doing warm compresses and eye drops and feel so much better a week later. As much as i'd like long lashes, my eyesight and health is more important. I started using castor oil instead for nourishment. I don't know if it helps grow lashes longer - but will see!

      thx again

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  22. Do you think using the lash serums on eyebrows is safe/safer? Since brows are further away from the eye, it seems the serum wouldn't get in the eye. Is there still a risk?

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    1. Probably less risk, though there is debate as to whether prostaglandin analogues are effective at growing hairs other than eyelashes. It's been researched for balding without too much positive buzz.

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    2. Thank you for your response. I want to run one more thing by you. When I shared my concerns about Lash Boost with the woman who I bought it from, she said the following: "The article is interesting however I know that Lash boost has been tested by 7 ophthalmologists over a 6 year time span to ensure it is 100% safe." Do you have any insight about how this could be true based on the information in your article?... Or do you think that comment is a distortion of the truth. The woman who I bought the serum from is a good friend of mine who I trust, so if this is an untrue statement I don't think it's her, personally, who thought it up.

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    3. I'm sure it is true that Lash Boost was tested for safety, but that is different from it having been tested for dry eye complications. We would all love to see dry eye testing done, measuring ocular surface irritation with clinical standards like OSDI scores, Tear Break Up Time, and corneal staining. Hopefully if enough people are vocal this type of testing will be done and published so we have the chance to make informed decisions.

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    4. I usd LashBoost for 4 months. My lashes grew like crazy BUT I had irritation, darkening of eyelids and below my eyes AND my hazel eyes turned brown. I asked my R&F consultant about this and she said she’d never heard of anyone else having these symptoms. I STOPPED using it. No more darkness around my eyes, but the green color of my formerly hazel eyes hasn’t returned. It’s been two months. Is there a chance that the green will return?

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    5. It’s unknown since Rodan and Fields hasn’t done any clinical testing in this side effect.

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    6. I use Lash Boost on my eyebrows and it works great. If I over apply Lash Boost to my top lid irritation occurs but with the very lightest I mean extremely light application I tolerate it just fine with no side effects and great results.

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  23. It's a great article! I have been looking for information about prostaglandin analogues since I am searching for a safe lash serum myself.
    However I must point a slight mistake in your list of Latisse side effects: a few studies on bimatoprost showed it can result in darkening ( meaning browning) of irises that are a green/brown mix, yellow/brown mix, hazel and blue/brown mix (specifically in that order if my memory serves right) but it rarely happened on pure green or blue eyes nor on brown eyes since the can't get any darker(browner), according to the studies at least).
    To make it short and simple, it can turn light colored eyes brown, especially if there's already some brown/yellow present in them. So this is concern mainly for people with light eyes.
    I really hope more people find and read your article because at the moment companies don't seem to have any concern for the consumer's health so they need to be able to make an educated choice and that requires information. We only get one pair of eyes for life, and that's for those of us who are lucky. Keep up the good work!

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    1. Yes, as you've said only people with brown pigment already in their iris will get a darkening effect! There is an increase in melanin experession, but the melanin has to be there already.

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    2. Is it permanent after only four months of use?

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  24. Hello, My meibomian glands had been permanently broken after the usage of Latisse. I by no means skilled dry eye symptoms prior to the use of Latisse.

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  25. Great article and very informative! Thank you for providing this information so people can make informed decisions. I have been reading that organic cold pressed castor oil can be an alternative to help promote healthy lashes. Do you know anything about this?

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    1. Pure coconut oil or an alternative could be a way to keep your eyelid skin hydrated and prevent breaking or damage to your lashes when removing eyemakeup.

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    2. But what about castor oil? I’ve read this is a good lash serum

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  26. I have been using lash boost for over a year with no side effects. I just had an examination by my ophthalmologist and she gave me a very thorough one when I told her I was using lash boost. She gave me 100% clear go ahead and said everything looked very healthy and she was very impressed with the product.

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  27. Hi Dr L,

    Regarding all the feedbacks and studies, would you be now able to give a shortlist of the most creditable lashes serum brands on the market?

    Thank you so much

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  28. Question. I have been using Latisse and recently was given Rodan Fields as a gift. I use Latisse at night and then Rodan & Fields in the morning. Is it safe and okay to use both together? I have not seen an answer though I've been looking on the internet for this for months. I've noticed significant more last girls with Rodan and Fields and just using Latisse alone. But I want to be safe is it okay to use both these products? Thank you

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    Replies
    1. You should schedule with a local eye doctor that has meibomian gland imaging capabilities to insure that it is safe for you!

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  29. I bought Lash Boost in April of 2017. I would put it on three times a week. Then I got lazy and put it on maybe twice a month. I started experiencing ocular migraines on a monthly basis. Scary and uncomfortable auras in my vision followed by very painful headaches. I began to document my diet and anything that could trigger the headache. Just tonight, I applied Lash Boost and within 15 minutes, I had an aura in my vision. I quickly started jotting down everything I had eaten. My husband reminded me I had just used thst "eyelash stuff". I started reading about possible side effects. I am astounded! I KNOW what has been causing my ocular migrains now. My weak and dry eyes that follow. No more Lash Boost or any prostaglandin analogues for me!

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  30. Have you heard of woo lash by woo pure
    Ingredients are as follows
    Purified water. Myristoyl pentapeptide-17. Cellulose gum,glycerin,sodium PCA,panthenol, calcium pantothenate, vitis vinifera (grape) fruit cell extract, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin.

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  31. Have you heard of woo lash by woo pure
    Ingredients are as follows
    Purified water. Myristoyl pentapeptide-17. Cellulose gum,glycerin,sodium PCA,panthenol, calcium pantothenate, vitis vinifera (grape) fruit cell extract, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin.

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  32. I would love to know your opinion on woolash serum as well! They claim to be 100% natural with no parabens or prostaglandins. Unfortunately, I can’t find any customer reviews besides the testimonials posted on the site.

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    1. I can't find any info on it either unfortunately!

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  33. I wonder if it is necessary to use the product everyday. Maybe that is what is causing the plugged ducts and irritation. The lash companies could just want you to use so much product so you'll have to buy more often.

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  34. Are you familiar with WooLash, it seems it is considered the best lash growth stimulator without leading to any irritations? Any advise would be much appreciated.

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    1. I would love to try it! Has anyone had good results or any negative results with vision changes?

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  35. Hi Dr.L, do you have any opinion on idol lash? It looks like all of the ingredients are natural. I’ve been using R&F and my vision has gotten worse. I’m not sure if it is from the serum or just staring at computers all day because I am a student. Would idol be safe to try? And do you have any idea when my vision may show improvement after stopping the boost?
    Thank you!

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    1. I'm not familiar! My advice is to research every ingredient and read up on possible side effects. "Natural" doesn't mean non-irritating. As for blurry vision, there's no clinical testing done on lash growth products for these types of side effects, so we don't have any data to say if its related or unrelated. Schedule with your eye doctor to get an assessment!

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  36. I’ve been using lash boost for about 3 weeks. I’ve progressively noticed blurrier vision in my right eye and pain behind the eye ? I’ve obviously stopped use of this product. Any idea what could be causing this!? Has anyone else had eye muscle pain ?

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  37. I have been using Lash Boost, and I noticed that my vision was changing in my right eye - my vision in the right eye was less colorful - it had a gray tone. I just went to the eye Dr and I was told I may have Central Serous Chorioretiropathy which is fluid build up in the back of my eye. Could this be caused by the Lash Boost - I did not see anyone else post this problem??

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  38. I just came from the eye doctor (optometrist) for a routine eye exam and also to ask about my eyes feeling irritated lately and blurred vision. After exam he informed me that he saw some damage to my eyes that was causing my dry eyes and vision problems and wanted me to go see a dry eye specialist who can better treat my problems. On my way home I started thinking. This all started when I began using the Lash Boost. I remember thinking my eyes felt irritated the morning after I started using it. I googled side effects and found all this information about R&F Lash Boost causing exactly what I have, irritated dry eyes that is affecting my vision. I even have noticed that my eyes seemed to be sunken in and dark, all noted side effects. Dr. L, how long will a person have to be on this product to cause permanent irreversible damage after discontinuing? I'm hoping it's not too late

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    1. We really don't know! There aren't any published studies about the side effect profile of isopropyl cloprostenate. The hope is that this information will be studied more fully so that there is more transparency about the potential side effects of it's use in cosmetic products.

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  39. I have a similar story but ended up with a rare, fast growing cataract. Just had surgery. How are you now?

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  40. I used Latisse for a few years, I got lash extensions ( for 3 weeks and took them off) and stopped using it. MY lashes are a mess. I'm not sure if its from stopping the latisse or from the extensions. It's been 5 months and my eyes are red and itchy and burn. I went to the eye DR and she gave me and antibiotic. It helped but once I stopped using it, the sysmptons came back. I so worried I screwed up my eye. Have you heard of blepharitis?

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  41. Blepharitis is extremely common! You can read more about the basics here: http://www.eyedolatryblog.com/2013/01/patients-guide-to-blepharitis.html Keep working with your doctor, because blepharitis requires long term, daily management to keep inflammation at bay.

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  42. Great article! Thank you for the information. I used R+F Lash Boost and it really did work well, however I did have the purple/reddish lash line when I was using it. When I stopped using it, once the long lashes fell out, they grew back normally. It was so expensive so I tried RapidLash from costco.com and my lashes grew but after about a month and a half I noticed my lashes were stiff (like it felt like I already had mascara on when I would apply mascara) and lashes were falling out a lot. I decided to try castor oil because it's more natural. I found a serum on etsy with castor oil and other natural oils that promote eyelash growth. I used that and thought it was working until almost all of my eyelashes fell out. I recently saw a picture of myself when I had bee using the R+F and was tempted to use it again until I googled and found this post. Thank you for sharing. NO MORE, I will be grateful for my own lashes and use lash strips for any big events, otherwise, I'm thankful for mascara and my natural lashes. Thanks for writing this article!

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  43. Dr. L...Do you know of WOOLASH? It is only sold online and the ingredients are listed on their site. Would deeply appreciate your opinion. (It sounds TOO GOOD to be TRUE)!!!! (AUGUST 14, 2018)

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    1. The preservative used Phenoxyethanol has been cited as a skin and eye irritant, just as a heads up! It could cause redness, irritation, and chronic itching or discomfort. All cosmetics and lash growth products have som risk for dry eye and eyelid skin irritation because of the preservatives used to prevent contamination. Some people may have a significant reaction; others none at all.
      It is always a risk when you put products on or around the eye. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0939641101002466

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  44. Hello, thank you so much for this very helpful artcile and thanks for all the comments. I have been using Lash Boost (R+F) for a week now, and I wake up with dry and itchy eyes. What bothered me more is that on several days in this week I had a very strong headache that didn't go away after taking the usual medication. I took a one day break form using the serum, and the day that followed was headache-free. I normally have headaches very rarely (1-2 per year) and they are quickly alleviated by any painkiller. It intrigued me. I know this could be a coincidence, for example I could be starting the pre-menopause (I'm 45) and this could be hormone-related migraines, the onset of which completely coincided with the days on which I used Lash Booost. However, I was wondering if there is any possible explanation why prostaglandin may cause a headache? Is this possible from a medical point of view?

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    1. In a review of scientific literature it seems like there could be a link between prostaglandins and headaches: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/fullarticle/265161

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  45. I’m beginning to think Lash Boost may have messed up my LASIK. I’ve been able to see perfectly for years since my LASIK surgery. I started using Lash Boost and my vision started getting blurry. I stopped using it but my vision hasn’t gone back to normal.

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  46. This is the first article that explains my experience with Lash Boost. I was thrilled with my results and then after six months, I started having crusting around my lids in the morning, redness of the cornea, and extreme discomfort with dryness. I read your article and went to the eye doctor and he said I had extreme inflammation beyond the cornea, dryness, and my vision was really blurry. (He thought it was an extreme allergic reaction, yet I had not changed any products.) I required two weeks of steroid eye drops. They issues have improved, yet I still have dryness like I have never experienced. I believe I was damaging my Meibomian glands as you described. I obviously stopped the Lash Boost at the start of my symptoms, but my lashes are now short. Attempting to balance vanity with insanity, do you know of any lash serums that you would suggest without the synthetic prostaglandins or would you suggest staying away from all?

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    1. The absolute safest option when you have a history of inflammatory reaction to lash growth products is to use a gentle eyelid cleanser nightly to remove any makeup products or chemicals that can cause lash breakage and fallout, and let nature take its' course. Products like Avenova lid cleanser or We Love Eyes Tea Tree Cleansing Oil are great options.

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  47. Hello- I stopped using R&F lash boost about a year ago because I just didn't want to pay for it anymore. Since then, my lashes have been feeling out. They grow back but seem to cycle every couple of months they will all fall out again. I have been to several doctors to check blood levels and everything has come back normal. Could this be related to the lash boost and if so, when will it stop? I have not been able to wear makeup for about a year because when I take mascara off, I loose so many lashes, it just isn't worth it. Please tell me there is an end in sight.

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    Replies
    1. I highly encourage you to see an eye doctor for a full dry eye/ocular surface disease work up! There could be a number of contributing issues that are at the root cause of your lash loss.

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  48. I have been going through a terrible experience after using Lash Boost. After about 8 weeks of use my right eyelid began to swell. I didn't think much of it at first but it rapidly got worse with a huge cyst. I had to have 3 incisions underneath my eyelid and am taking doxycycline. Even the 3 incisions didn't get everything out. I am left with 2 chalazions and wondering if my eye will ever be normal again. It has been about a month since all of this started. I am continuing the doxy and I think will get a steroid injection next week (ophtho recommended). I do not have skin problems and have not had problems with styes (1 or 2 in my life) I've seen 3 ophthalmologist and they say my sebum is really thick in both eyes. Any advice appreciated. I wish I had known the side effects before. I never was interested in Latisse because of the side effects but I mistakenly thought Lash Boost was no big deal.

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  49. I was using Latisse and developed puffy, red, flaky eyelids. I stopped using it and they are still irritated 2 weeks later. Is this permanent? Will it go away? I am so afraid it’s permanent.

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    1. For most people, the acute redness, puffiness, and inflammation caused by prostaglandin analogues like those in Latisse will go away when you stop using the product. But it's best to go to your eye doctor to make sure there is no treatment you need to be on in case you are having a larger reaction!

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  50. I've been using revitalash and grande lash for a few months. Recently woke up with 5 styes! I've never had a stye before. I'm currently on a steroid eye drop, hot compresses and lid disinfectant. Its unfortunate because the product works great but definitely not worth it

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  51. I'm using Alphaeon Lash serum? Would you happen to know if it can cause fat atrophy or darkening skin around the lash line? I see it contains Phenoxyethanyl.

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    1. I tried to look this up but apparently it's been discontinued! https://www.lovelyskin.com/o/alphaeon-beauty-eyelash-serum

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  52. Hi
    Have you ever hear of hydropeptide lash fuller longer lusher? I was dx wirh OR, MGD n blepharitis. Would love to try something to bring my lashes back. I was on lumigan for narrow Angie’s after laser procedure. While it makes your lashes grow.., it irritates lids and already pinkish lids from OR. Any advice much appreciated!!

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    Replies
    1. While this product doesn't contain isopropyl cloprostenate it does have preservatives like phenoxyethanol that can cause irritation. With your history of ocular issues (MGD and blepharitis) it's possible that your irritation and symptoms could worsen on this product.

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  53. Is there anything to use on the eyelids to lessen the itching and burning while they heal? I stopped using lash boost three weeks ago and my eyelids aren’t any better.

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    1. For eyelid cleansers I have had great success with We Love Eyes (https://www.weloveeyes.com/). You could be having an allergic reaction though, so seeing your doctor is best!

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  54. Hi, do you know if grande lash also use a synthetic prostaglandin analogue?

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  55. Hello Dr. L; What are your thoughts on COS Peptide Lash? It claims to be prostoglandin-free. The ingredients are: Purified Water (Aqua), Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, Cellulose Gum, Glycerin, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin. Thank you. Sincerely, Anne

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  56. I used for about four days start having eye facial pain. Went to speclist my tear ducts are now clog now using prescription eye drops. Somewhat better put still experiencing painful events as well as vision problems. Is there a class action lawsuits? I did notify the eyelash sermen company got refund from equate.

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  57. I used NeuBrow or NeuLash. I shortly noticed hollowness around my eyes and it makes an extra fold on my eyelid, so i now have crooked eyes, one that looks droopy. It’s been four years now, and I still have unattractive scary looking hollow eyes. My parents do not have this problem, so I know it’s not hereditary. One of my sisters used neulash/brow too and has major hollow eyes too. And my two other sisters that did not use the product have healthy looking eyes. It has contributed to my depression. I am considering spending thousands of dollars on eyelid injection and tear trough injections, and those don’t last forever. I wish I could sue NeuLash/Brow to make up for it :,(

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