My iris color changed?

Question

I have been using rapidlash for a few years. Rapidlash is like the "over the counter" version of Latisse. I noticed my bright blue-green eyes have become more grey. Is this due to the rapidlash? If i stop using it will my eyes turn back to their blue-green color or am I stuck with this dull grey color forever?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Latisse can cause pigment changes to your iris. Latisse can also cause pigment changes to the skin where it is applied. A photo would help to assess the color changes. There is contact information in the Latisse box with the directions. I would direct any concerns to the manufacturer.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

There is no "over the counter" equivalent to Latisse because it is a prescription product. It contains an ingredient called bimatoprost, which is also used in a different formulation called Lumigan for glaucoma. A small percentage of patients with green/hazel eyes experience color change to brown with Lumigan, which is applied as drops into the eye. Latisse is not applied into the eye so there are no confirmed reports of iris color change. I have no idea what is in rapidlash but it is not the same. I would recommend consulting an ophthalmologist.

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

Latisse is the only FDA approved treatment documented to enhance eyelash length, thickness, and color.  When used as a drop in the eye for the treatment of glaucoma, a small percentage of patients (1-3%) noted change in the color of the iris from green to brown.  This has not been reported when Latisse has been used appropriately on the outside of the eyelids.  I am not aware of any studies demonstrating ocular effects of Rapidlash.  I would contact the manufacturer for more information.

Christopher Khorsandi, MD · Answer

Latisse has been shown to cause color change of the iris.   usually this change is irreversible. I am not familiar with the effects of Rapidlash however if you are noticing change that I would discontinue use of it. I would seek a consultation with a board-certified ophthalmologist to discuss your condition.

Michael H. Gold, MD · Answer

I am sorry that you
have problems with an over the counter product that claims to do things that
only the FDA approved product can do – which is grow eyelashes. Latisse does
turn iris colors in a very small amount of people and this is something that we
all tell our patients before they start using it. We also explain to them if
they notice it, they are to stop it, notify us, and we refer them to an
ophthalmologist to watch them with us.

OTC products do not
undergo the same rigor as do prescription products that have to go before the
FDA. If you are having problems here, contact the company and see a board-certified
ophthalmologist as soon as possible to see if there is anything that can be
done for you.

My iris color changed?

Answers (5)