Nulastin vs Latisse: Which One Grows Better Lashes?
We all admire long, fluttery eyelashes, but not everyone is naturally blessed with them. For those suffering from Hypotrichosis of the eyelashes, inadequate lash growth can significantly impact their self-confidence.
While Hypotrichosis Simplex is rare, affecting fewer than 1000 people in the US, conditions like Cancer and Alopecia can also lead to Hypotrichosis. To address this, products like Nulastin and Latisse are used as eyelash growth serums.
This article explores the differences between Nulastin vs Latisse, helping you make an informed decision, so keep on reading.
Quick review
Studies have not been conducted that directly compare the efficacy of Nulastin and Latisse.
But a review by Bishr Al Dabagh and Julie Woodward promotes Bimatoprost (present in Latisse) as an eyelash-enhancing product. Another research by Wirta D et al. has shown considerable lash growth in cancer patients post-chemotherapy with Bimatoprost use.
| Basis | Nulastin | Latisse |
|---|---|---|
| Uses | It is used to lengthen, darken, and thicken eyelashes | It is prescribed to lengthen, darken, and thicken eyelashes |
| FDA status in the year | Since it is a cosmetic product, not a medication, it doesn’t require FDA approval | 2008 |
| Active ingredients | Elastatropin, SymPeptide, Keracyte, Phosphate Buffered Saline | Bimatoprost |
| Avg. Cost per 3ml | $79 (approx.) | $120-$150 (approx.) |
| Other | Cosmetic | Medication |
What is Nulastin?
Nulastin is a cosmetic product used to revitalize lashes, brows, skin, and hair. It is not a medication, so it does not require FDA approval. Nulastin has active ingredients such as Elastatropin, SymPeptide, Keracyte, and Phosphate-Buffered Saline. These are synthetic compounds designed to enhance skin and hair health.
It aims to address the hair in the anagen (growth/active phase) and late telogen (resting/shedding phase) phases. Nulastin nourishes the cells that play a part in producing hair follicles. It is not recommended for anyone below the age of 18. Additionally, it is advised not to use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What is Latisse?
Latisse is an FDA-approved, prescription-based medication for Hypotrichosis. It works by prolonging the duration of the eyelash growth cycle. Its active salt is Bimatoprost, which belongs to a class of medications called Prostaglandin Analogs. Topical Bimatoprost 0.03% is a concentration that is used as an eyelash growth serum. It promotes the growth of thicker, longer, and darker lashes.
Studies have even proven the safety and efficacy of Bimatoprost in pediatric patients suffering from Hypotrichosis. However, it is not advisable to use it for those under 18 without medical advice. Though Latisse is not approved for use on eyebrows, doctors might sometimes recommend it for off-label use. A study published in NCBI has shown the efficacy of Bimatoprost in improving eyebrow growth.
Pros and Cons
When comparing Nulastin and Latisse, both products aim to enhance lash and brow growth but differ in their formulations and uses. Before choosing between them, here are the key pros and cons you should know.
| Nulastin | Latisse |
|---|---|
| Pros: It can be used on both lashes and eyebrows to enhance growth and fullness, providing a natural boost to your look. | Pros: Effectively treats Hypotrichosis and may also be recommended by your doctor for off-label use to promote eyebrow growth. For best results, it needs to be applied once daily. |
| Cons: This product needs to be used twice daily. It may cause dry, itchy eyes and could lead to permanent darkening of the skin around the eyes. However, the effects are not permanent, so it’s important to consider the pros and cons of continued use. | Cons: Latisse needs to be applied at least 15 minutes before inserting contact lenses. It’s important to note that while Latisse is FDA-approved for eyelash growth, it has not been approved for use on eyebrows. |
What came first: Nulastin or Latisse?
Nulastin was introduced in the market in 2016. It offers a variety of products for lash and brow growth. Latisse (0.03% Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) was approved in 2008 for the treatment of Hypotrichosis.
Before 2008, Bimatoprost was only used to treat Glaucoma. However, its side effect, lash growth, led to its use as a lash growth serum. Hence, between Nulastin and Latisse, Latisse has been in the market for lash growth longer than Nulastin.
Side effects
It is common to observe side effects from using certain medications. Some of the most frequently observed side effects of using Latisse include redness and itching of the eyes.
Other side effects include the following:
- Burning or itching of eyes
- Vision issues, including seeing halos around the eyes
- Eye pain or swelling
- Increased sensitivity to light
Nulastin, on the other hand, might show the following side effects:
- Dry and itchy eyes
- Permanent darkening of the periocular area
- Change in the eye color
It is advised to get in touch with your doctor in case of any of these symptoms.
Interactions
It is common to see that every patient reacts to medication differently. Therefore, sharing your medical history with your doctor before starting Latisse treatment is always wise.
Bimatoprost, which is present in Latisse, may show adverse effects if you have the following conditions:
- Renal/liver disease
- Uveitis
- Macular edema
However, since Nulastin is a cosmetic product, its interactions with any pre-existing conditions remain unknown. You must do a patch test before using it on the face to ensure you are not allergic to any ingredients.
Conclusion
When choosing between Nulastin and Latisse for eyelash growth, consider personal preferences, medical history, and desired outcomes. Nulastin offers a cosmetic approach with ingredients like Elastatropin and SymPeptide, while Latisse contains Bimatoprost, FDA-approved for Hypotrichosis.
Consult a healthcare professional to decide on the best option for you. To achieve your desired results safely, follow the recommended guidelines and monitor for adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nulastin better than Latisse?
Latisse is an FDA-approved medication, while Nulastin is a cosmetic product for lash growth. Additionally, Latisse has been around for a substantially longer time than Nulastin. It is best to consult your doctor to determine the product that would work best for you.
Is Nulastin the same as Latisse?
Nulastin and Latisse are different. Nulastin is a cosmetic product, while Latisse is an FDA-approved medication for eyelash growth. They have different ingredients and, hence, work differently.
Is Latisse effective for eyelash growth?
Latisse is an FDA-approved medicine that promotes eyelash growth in people with Hypotrichosis. Its active ingredient is Bimatoprost. It can also be recommended for off-label eyebrow growth use.
How long does it take to see eyelash growth with Latisse?
Latisse typically takes 16 weeks to show full results, but some people may notice longer lashes after about a month. The treatment works by increasing the growth cycle of eyelash hair, and results are gradual over time.
