Learn about common and serious Latisse side effects, how to manage them, and when to contact your doctor. A complete 2026 patient guide.
Latisse (Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03%) is the only FDA-approved prescription treatment for growing longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes. It's made by AbbVie and has been on the market since 2008. Like all medications, Latisse can cause side effects — but most are mild and manageable.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Latisse side effects: what's common, what's rare, what's reversible, and when you should call your doctor.
Latisse contains Bimatoprost, a synthetic prostaglandin analog. It works by extending the anagen (growth) phase of your eyelash hair cycle, which results in longer, fuller lashes over time. If you'd like a deeper explanation, check out our article on how Latisse works.
Because Bimatoprost affects the tissue around your eyes, most side effects are localized to the eye area. Systemic (whole-body) side effects are extremely rare with the small amount used for eyelash growth.
These side effects are the most frequently reported in clinical trials and post-market use. They're generally mild and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Mild itching in or around the eye is the most commonly reported side effect. It usually occurs during the first few weeks of use and tends to diminish over time. If it becomes bothersome, talk to your doctor, but don't rub your eyes — this can make it worse.
Some redness in the white part of the eye can occur, especially when first starting Latisse. This is usually mild and temporary. If redness persists or is accompanied by pain, contact your provider.
The skin along your upper eyelid where you apply Latisse may darken slightly. This is generally reversible once you stop using Latisse, though it may take several weeks to months to fade. Careful application only to the upper lash line — and blotting any excess — helps minimize this effect.
A general sense of irritation, dryness, or discomfort in the eye can occur. This is different from itching and feels more like something is mildly bothering your eye. Using artificial tears (at least 5 minutes apart from Latisse) can help.
Some users experience dryness, particularly if they're already prone to dry eyes. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Latisse and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
The eyelid itself may become slightly red or irritated at the application site. This is usually mild and resolves on its own.
These side effects are rarer but worth knowing about before you start Latisse.
Bimatoprost can cause increased brown pigmentation of the iris (the colored part of the eye). This has been observed primarily with the higher-dose glaucoma formulation (Lumigan), but it is theoretically possible with Latisse. This change may be permanent — meaning your eye color could darken and not return to its original shade even after stopping the medication.
In practice, iris color change is extremely rare with Latisse at its lower concentration and topical application method. However, if you notice any change in your eye color, stop using Latisse and see your doctor promptly.
With prolonged use, some patients have reported a sunken or hollowed appearance around the eyes. This is caused by a loss of fat in the tissue surrounding the eye (periorbital fat atrophy). It's more commonly associated with the glaucoma formulation but has been reported anecdotally with Latisse.
This side effect may be partially or fully reversible after discontinuation, though recovery can take months. If you notice changes in the appearance of your eye area, discuss this with your provider.
If Latisse solution comes into contact with skin outside the treatment area (such as the cheek or lower eyelid), it may cause hair growth in those areas. This is why careful application and blotting excess solution is so important. Any unwanted hair growth should resolve after you stop getting solution on those areas.
Rarely, Bimatoprost can trigger inflammation inside the eye (iritis or uveitis). Symptoms include eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and redness. This requires prompt medical attention.
Swelling in the macula (the center of the retina) is a rare but serious side effect. It's more of a concern in patients with existing risk factors such as a history of macular edema or those who've had eye surgery. Symptoms include blurred or distorted central vision.
Understanding which effects go away and which might not helps you make an informed decision:
It's also worth noting that Latisse's desired effects (longer, thicker lashes) are also reversible. If you stop using Latisse, your lashes will gradually return to their original appearance over several weeks to months.
Proper application technique goes a long way toward reducing side effects:
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
If you're ever unsure, it's better to call your doctor than to wait. Most providers who prescribe Latisse are very familiar with these side effects and can advise you quickly.
Animal studies showed adverse fetal effects at high doses of Bimatoprost. There aren't adequate human studies. If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using Latisse.
If you use prostaglandin analog eye drops for glaucoma (like Lumigan, Xalatan, or Travatan), adding Latisse could affect your eye pressure. Always tell your eye doctor about all medications and eye drops you use.
Latisse has not been studied in patients under 18 years old. Safety and effectiveness have not been established in this age group.
Most people who use Latisse experience either no side effects or only mild ones that resolve on their own. The most common issues — slight itching, redness, and eyelid darkening — affect only a small percentage of users and are generally reversible.
The key to minimizing side effects is proper application: use only on the upper lash line, blot excess, and use the sterile applicators as directed. And if anything feels off, don't hesitate to call your doctor.
Ready to get started? Learn how to find a doctor who prescribes Latisse, or find out everything you need to know about using Latisse. If cost is a concern, explore our guide to saving money on Latisse.
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