Chemical drug by Botox makers could spell the end of mascara

Mascara could be a thing of the past following the creation of a new drug by the makes of Botox.
Photo: ANDREW CROWLEY

The new chemical for eyelashes has been created by Allergan, the company behind the anti-wrinkle drug Botox.

Allergan has won approval in the US to sell a prescription medication that promises to enhance dull or thinning lashes.

Latisse,
which is designed to treat a condition known as hypotrichosis of the
eyelashes, which means a person does not have enough eyelashes, has
been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

When
applied once daily to the eyelid with a disposable applicator, the drug
Latisse apparently improves the length, thickness and colour of hairs.

Continued
use is necessary to maintain the thicker lashes, and side effects can
include eye redness and itchiness, a darkening of the eyelid skin and a
permanent darkening of the whites of the eyes.

The primary
ingredient in Latisse is a chemical called a prostaglandin, which is
present in hair and is thought to help in the development and regrowth
of hair follicles.

The same chemical is used to treat glaucoma, and it was a glaucoma specialist who first discovered the eyelash effect.

Latisse be available early next year and and a 30-day supply is expected to cost $120 (£82), according to reports.

Latisse
is the first prescription product for lengthening eyelashes and the
company said it estimates that global sales could top £300million
a year.