Déjà Vu All Over Again for Prostaglandin Based Eyelash Growth Serum

It wasn’t that long ago that Jan Marini received an FDA wrist slap that reverberated throughout the skincare industry for selling an eyelash conditioner with unapproved ingredient bimatoprost. Eyelash growth products are taking it on the chin again, this time the FDA has sent a warning letter to LifeTech Resources, manufacturer of RapidLash Eyelash Renewal Serum, NeuLash Active Eyelash Technology and NeuveauBrow Active Eyebrow Technology.

These particular eyelash extenders and eyelash regrowth serums contain Isopropyl Cloprostenate – a synthetic prostaglandin analog very similar to bimatoprost. (Bimatoprost is the active ingredients in FDA-approved drugs used to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients.)

Adverse events associated with prostaglandin analogs for ophthalmic use include ocular irritation, hyperemia, iris color change, macular edema, ocular inflammation, and interference with glaucoma therapy – all things best avoided for our clients. In addition, prostaglandin analogs for ophthalmic use are currently classified as Pregnancy Class C. (This classification means that there have been no human studies of the drug, but that animal studies have revealed some potential abnormalities.)

You can read more on the FDA Website The FDA also says ” If you currently distribute or use lash or brow conditioner, we urge you to carefully review your brand’s ingredient list to avoid possible regulatory and consumer issues.” It’s worth looking at your eyelash growth products to determine the active ingredient. Here’s the ingredient list for Rapid Lash:

Water (Aqua), Rhizobian Gum, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Biotin (Vitamin H), Panthenol, Pantethine, Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans, Allantoin (Comfrey Root), Cucurbita Pepo Seed Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root), Sea Water, Octapeptide 2, Copper Tripeptide 1 Alcohol Denatured, Isopropyl Cloprostenate, Polypeptide 23, Glycine Soja (Soybean Oil), Glycerin, Phosphatidylcholine, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenisen, Sorbic Acid (A Preservative)

If your are carrying Rapid Lash, or any other product with Isopropyl Cloprostenate you should call your rep and find out what your next steps should be. It’s logical to assume that you should not have the product on your shelves. You’ll also want to find out from your Rep how to deal with any clients that return their lash growth product.