Risks of Cosmetic Eyelash Serums Containing Prostaglandin Analogues

Recent media coverage is raising awareness among ophthalmologists and the public on the potential risks of using cosmetic eyelash growth serums containing prostaglandin analogues.

Since the 1990s, studies have shown that eyelash growth is linked to prostaglandin analogues. On that basis, several beauty industry organisations release products, including eyelash growth serums, some of which contain small amounts of the drug, prostaglandin analogues. These are sold as an over-the-counter product due to the small quantities of prostaglandin analogues.

According to The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO) and ophthalmologists’ experience, prostaglandin eye drops cause predictable side effects. However, the exact pattern of side effects that each patient experiences are unpredictable. Ocular irritation, redness, iris hyperpigmentation, excessive hair growth, blepharitis, skin hyperpigmentation, and periorbitopathy are most common. If patients take prostaglandins for years, they usually get a combination of these.

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO) has published a Position Statement on this topic. RANZCO believes that consumers should be aware of the full list of possible ocular and periocular side effects. RANZCO's position statement can be accessed here.