Enhancing the Growth of Natural Eyelashes: The Mechanism of Bimatoprost-Induced Eyelash Growth

The document from 2010 reviewed how bimatoprost, a prostamide analog approved for treating hypotrichosis of the eyelashes, enhances eyelash growth. Clinical and preclinical studies indicated that bimatoprost increases the percentage of eyelash follicles in the anagen phase, leading to longer lashes, and also stimulates melanogenesis for darker lashes, as well as increases the size of the dermal papilla and hair bulb for thicker and fuller lashes. A phase III clinical trial confirmed these effects, showing significant improvements in eyelash prominence, length, thickness, and darkness with a favorable safety profile. The trial involved 278 participants, with 137 using bimatoprost and 141 using a vehicle. By week 16, the bimatoprost group experienced a 24% increase in length, a 106% increase in thickness, and an 18% increase in darkness of eyelashes. The document concluded that bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03% is a safe and effective treatment for enhancing natural eyelash growth.