The $120 Mascara – Latisse

Last year the spa industry was abuzz as reps began whispering about the new Latisse mascara, set to release this year. At $120 for a tube, it would do away with the need for regular mascara, even extensions! How you ask?

Latisse promises more than a cosmetic enhancing via dark clumps. Released by Allergan, Latisse is a wearable formulation of Lumigan, a drug that is used to treat glaucoma. What was dished as we sat on our comfy cushions was that the doctor who developed the drops discovered his patients were reporting lash growth. A little creative thinking led to the new cosmetic enhancement.

Reps, male and female, in fact WERE sporting longer eye locks. At each monthly visit there was noticeable growth. One had a natural, moderate length that ended up growing to the point they were touching his face. He claimed he had to trim them down. Another female spoke of constantly being asked if her lush lashes were real or not.

As you can imagine, there are side effects to consider. Red, itchy eyes, changes in eyelid pigmentation and change of eye color are possibilities listed in this New York Times article.

And what of other benefits? It was rumored that this could work on eyebrows, but of course the joking reference was on balding. “Unfortunately, it doesn’t work on the scalp”, was the response. “If it did, I’d be a millionaire many times over”.

Although the article suggests doctors will primarily be dispensing this product, based on the info I was privy to last year, you can bet you will see this popping up in spas and medical spas if allowed. This is an affordable luxury treatment.

Have you experienced Latisse as a tester? Would you use $120 medical mascara? Let me know your thoughts!