Why You Need a Prescription for Latisse

Latisse (Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03%) is the only FDA-approved prescription treatment for eyelash hypotrichosis — a condition where you have inadequate or not enough eyelashes. Unlike over-the-counter lash serums, Latisse is a real medication made by AbbVie (formerly Allergan), and it requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

This means you can't just walk into a store and buy it. You need to see a doctor first. The good news? Getting a Latisse prescription is usually straightforward, and there are more ways to do it in 2026 than ever before — including telehealth.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Latisse?

Several types of healthcare providers can prescribe Latisse. You don't necessarily need to see a specialist, though some people prefer to. Here are the most common prescribers:

Dermatologists

Dermatologists are skin, hair, and nail specialists. They're one of the most common prescribers of Latisse because eyelash growth falls squarely within their expertise. If you already see a dermatologist for other skin concerns, asking about Latisse during your next visit is an easy first step.

Ophthalmologists

Eye doctors are very familiar with Bimatoprost — the active ingredient in Latisse — because it's also used in a higher concentration (as Lumigan) to treat glaucoma. Ophthalmologists understand the eye-related side effects of Latisse and can be a great choice if you have existing eye conditions.

Plastic Surgeons and Aesthetic Medicine Providers

Many cosmetic and plastic surgery practices prescribe Latisse as part of their aesthetic services. If you visit a medical spa or aesthetic clinic, they likely offer Latisse consultations and may even sell it directly from their office.

Primary Care Providers

Your regular doctor or family physician can also prescribe Latisse. While it's not their primary focus, any licensed prescriber can write a Latisse prescription after evaluating your needs.

Telehealth Providers

In 2026, many telehealth platforms offer Latisse consultations online. This is often the fastest and most convenient option — you can get a prescription without leaving your home.

How to Find a Latisse Prescriber Near You

Here are practical steps to find a doctor who prescribes Latisse in your area:

1. Use MedFinder

Start at medfinder.com to search for Latisse availability near you. MedFinder helps you locate pharmacies and providers who can help you get started with Latisse.

2. Search for Local Dermatologists or Aesthetic Clinics

A quick search for "dermatologist near me" or "medical spa near me" will usually turn up practices that offer Latisse. Many aesthetic clinics list Latisse on their websites as one of their treatments. Call ahead to confirm they prescribe it.

3. Check the Allē Directory

AbbVie's Allē rewards program (formerly Brilliant Distinctions) has a provider finder that lists practices offering Allergan products, including Latisse. Visit alle.com to find participating providers near you.

4. Ask Your Current Doctor

If you already have a dermatologist, ophthalmologist, or even a primary care doctor you trust, simply ask at your next appointment. Many patients are surprised to learn their existing doctor is happy to prescribe Latisse.

5. Try Telehealth

Several telehealth platforms offer Latisse prescriptions after a quick online consultation. This is especially useful if you live in a rural area or don't want to schedule an in-person visit. The consultation usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes and can be done from your phone or computer.

What to Expect at Your Latisse Consultation

Whether you see a doctor in person or online, here's what typically happens during a Latisse consultation:

• Medical history review: Your doctor will ask about your eye health, any allergies, and medications you're taking (especially other eye drops that might interact with Latisse).
• Evaluation of your lashes: The provider will assess your current lash condition to confirm you're a good candidate.
• Discussion of expectations: Latisse takes about 8 weeks to show initial results and 16 weeks for full results. Your doctor will explain the timeline so you know what to expect.
• Side effect discussion: You'll learn about potential side effects like eye redness, itching, and possible eyelid skin darkening.
• Prescription: If you're a good candidate, you'll get a prescription that same visit.

Can You Get Latisse Online?

Yes. Telehealth has made getting a Latisse prescription easier than ever. Here's how it typically works:

1. You sign up on a telehealth platform that offers Latisse.
2. You fill out a health questionnaire.
3. A licensed provider reviews your information and conducts a virtual consultation (sometimes asynchronous, sometimes via video).
4. If approved, the prescription is sent to a pharmacy of your choice or shipped directly to you.

This process can sometimes be completed in under 24 hours. It's a great option if you're busy, don't have a local dermatologist, or simply prefer the convenience of doing things from home.

How Much Does a Latisse Consultation Cost?

Consultation costs vary depending on the provider:

• Dermatologist office visit: $100–$300 (may be covered by insurance as a standard office visit)
• Medical spa consultation: Often free or included in the product price
• Telehealth consultation: $20–$75 on most platforms

Keep in mind that Latisse itself is a separate cost. Most insurance plans do not cover Latisse because it's considered cosmetic. Brand-name Latisse typically costs $180–$280 for a 5 mL bottle, but generic Bimatoprost is available for as low as $58–$62 with coupons. Check out our guide on how to save money on Latisse for more tips.

Tips for Your First Latisse Appointment

To make the most of your visit, come prepared:

• Bring a list of your current medications — especially any eye drops. Bimatoprost can interact with other prostaglandin analogs like Latanoprost (Xalatan) or Travoprost (Travatan).
• Mention any eye conditions — including glaucoma, uveitis, or a history of macular edema.
• Ask about generic options — generic Bimatoprost 0.03% is the same active ingredient as Latisse but costs significantly less.
• Ask about the Allē program — you may be able to save $30 or more per bottle through AbbVie's loyalty rewards.

What If Your Doctor Won't Prescribe Latisse?

Some doctors may decline to prescribe Latisse if they feel it's not medically necessary or if you have certain eye conditions that increase risk. If this happens:

• Ask for a referral to a dermatologist or ophthalmologist who specializes in cosmetic treatments.
• Try a telehealth platform — providers on these platforms are often more familiar with cosmetic prescriptions.
• Look into aesthetic clinics in your area that specialize in Allergan products.

Once You Have Your Prescription

After getting your Latisse prescription, you'll need to fill it at a pharmacy. Most pharmacies carry Latisse or can order it, but availability can vary. If you're having trouble finding it in stock, use MedFinder to check pharmacy stock near you.

Want to learn more about how Latisse works before your appointment? Read our guide on what Latisse is and how to use it, or dive deeper into the science behind how Latisse grows lashes.