In this article, we will elaborate on how to use and where to purchase Latanoprost as well as its side effects and expected results.
What is Latanoprost?
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin (PG) F2𝛼 analog used to treat glaucoma that stimulates the blood flow within the eye.
Patients who used Latanoprost as an ocular eye drop began to grow longer, fuller, darker eyelashes as a side effect which led to its use as a treatment for eyelash alopecia.
The scalp of people with androgenetic alopecia has decreased levels of PGE2 (hair growth-stimulating PG) and increased levels of PGD2 (hair growth-inhibiting PG). PGE2 is known to act synergistically with PGF2𝛼.
After testing if Latanoprost increases hair density on a scalp too it was found that Latanoprost is effective for treating male and female pattern hair loss and other types of alopecia, such as telogen effluvium and alopecia areata.
Latanoprost induces hypertrichosis by stimulating conversion from the telogen (resting phase) to the anagen (the growth phase) and by vasodilatation, thereby improving nutrient transport to hair follicles.
How to Use Topical Latanoprost
Latanoprost is easy to use:
- Latanoprost typically comes in a bottle with a dropper which allows measurement of the exact amount needed to apply.
- Once filled as per instructions, the dropper should be aligned to the scalp.
- After applying the solution it should be rubbed into the skin of the scalp.
Safety measures/tips for maximizing effectiveness:
- Latanoprost is preferably administered to the dry skin on the previously cleaned scalp.
- Latanoprost should not be washed away or wiped after administration for at least 4h.
- More than one layer of the Latanoprost can be applied.
While Latanoprost shows promising results for hair growth, Minoxidil remains a popular choice for those dealing with a receding hairline. Learn more about Minoxidil for a receding hairline to see if it’s a suitable option for your hair loss treatment.
Where to Get Latanoprost?
Topical Latanoprost is prescribed by dermatologists and can be obtained from a local or online pharmacy.
Compounding pharmacies can create custom Latanoprost for individual dosing and combine it with other medications, such as Minoxidil.
A prescription for Latanoprost can be obtained from a doctor willing to prescribe it off-label after consultation or from a licensed dermatologist upon completing an online questionnaire.
Before and After Effects Using Latanoprost
Latanoprost provides both therapeutic and cosmetic benefits to reducing hair loss, as shown by improved hair shaft thickness or hair thickness and appearance of hair.
- Androgenic alopecia/pattern hair loss: Latanoprost has response rates of 30-50%.
- Alopecia areata of the eyelashes/eyebrows: Latanoprost is unlikely to help with eyebrow regrowth, while it induces acceptable responses in 45% of the patients with eyelash alopecia.
- Alopecia areata of the scalp: Latanoprost improves alopecia areata of the scalp in ~25% of participants.
The figure represents female participants at the beginning and after the treatment with 5% Minoxidil and 0.005% Latanoprost.
Disclaimer: These photos have been selected for reference purposes.
Latanoprost Side Effects
Latanoprost is a fairly new treatment so it is still unclear if side effects associated with its use can occur when used topically.
The most common side effects typical for topical treatments include:
- Redness
- Scaling
- Itching
- Discomfort of the treatment area.
These can be avoided by titrating the medication – applying it one time per day for the first week and twice a day for the following weeks.
Some studies reported that topical Latanoprost is well tolerated with no signs of side effects.
Long-term Latanoprost use (after one full year of treatment) is associated with pigment changes.
Key Takeaways
- Latanoprost requires daily application to the scalp and needs consistent use for best results.
- Latanoprost shows effectiveness in clinical trials – after 24 weeks of treatmentLatanoprost has potential side effects including skin irritation and causes increased pigmentation in treated areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Success Rate of Latanoprost?
Literature suggests that ~0.1 mg daily of topical Latanoprost reduces hair loss and promotes hair growth in 30-50% of hair loss patients over 6-8 months.
Does Latanoprost Work Immediately?
Latanoprost takes ∼24 weeks to exert its effects.
Will Latanoprost Help Eyebrows Grow?
Latanoprost is not stimulating eyebrow growth potentially due to the different growth patterns of eyebrows compared to the scalp hair.
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