Minoxidil instead of Latisse for permanent eyelashes growth?

Question

Hello, I know that Minoxidil is originally NOT intended for use on facial hair but on actual scalp hair only... however, a large amount of people have managed to grow a permanent beard using it everyday for an extended period of time... I would like to know if the same logic would apply to eyelashes, since they too are part of the "facial hair". IS THERE A POSSIBILITY that Minoxidil would allow one to grow extra terminal/permanent eyelashes ? Thanks by advance.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.I would avoid using Minoxidil around the eyes. The product is alcohol based which would cause irritation and inflammation to the sensitive around the eyes.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

No, I don't recommend using Minoxidil to grow eyelashes due to the risk of irritation. A combination approach is needed. In combination with Latisse, I typically inject and apply topically PRP for a few treatments at the beginning to improve the growth rate of the lashes. Take viviscal as well. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Eric T. Carniol, MD · Answer

Dear Noddy,  This is a great outside the box thought and also would be a cost saving if it were to work. Brief history: minoxidil was originally developed as a blood pressure medicine. However, they noticed that a fair number of people started growing hair all over their bodies.  Then, the scalp was studied by applying it to the skin. For many patients, it works great (while they use it but when they stop, so do the effects) with minimal side effects. However, some people do develop more hair growth in/around face. The beard is a broad area so applying it there is usually fine, and for people that are shaving, some odd hair growth can be shaved off easy enough. Short story: If you use minoxidil on your eyelashes, it may work great on your eyelashes but you may grow hair (for some time) on your eyelid skin, cheeks, etc, that may require shaving!

George Papanicolaou, MD · Answer

Hello,
Minoxidil has not been studied or approved for the eyelashes. It can cause a lot of irritation around the eyes and the delicate skin on the face. Latisse is one of the best options for a lash growth solution to date. Best wishes!

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Minoxidil is not to be used on the eyelashes. It can be highly irritating in that manner and effects on the eye have not been studied.

Minoxidil instead of Latisse for permanent eyelashes growth?

Answers (5)

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Minoxidil instead of Latisse for permanent eyelashes growth?

Answers (5)

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