Ask the Expert: Skin Care 101

June 2011

by: Jan Dupuy, RN Nurse Specialist in Cosmetic Skin Care
Owner of the Biltmore Skin Care Center

Ask: I am thinking about trying Latisse to grow longer lashes, but I have heard if you have blue eyes, it can turn them brown. Is that true?

Answer: Latisse is the only eyelash growth enhancer that has been approved by the FDA. Because of this, it is necessary for Allergan, the drug company that makes Latisse, to disclose any and all possible side effects. When the full dose medicine Bimatoprost, was used as eye drops for glaucoma patients, there was a very small chance of eye color changing. That same medicine is used as the active ingredient in Latisse, but only at 0.03%, significantly reducing your chances of any side effect. And remember, Latisse is applied to the eyelids, not used as drops in your eye.

Ask: My friend told me I need to reapply sunscreen ever two hours. Isn’t that overkill?

Answer: No. When you are active and outdoors, it is necessary to reapply your sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours to keep your skin safe from the sun’s harmful rays. Always use a sunscreen that protects you from both UVA and UVB rays and remember to thank your friend for looking out for your skin.

Be sure to contact the Biltmore Skin Care Center for details on products and procedures.