RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Eyelashes have both a protective and an aesthetic function. Hypotrichosis of the eyelashes may negatively influence an individual's self-perception. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate efficacy and safety of topical administration of a new cosmetic preparation containing 15 keto fluprostenol isopropyl ester (80 µgr/mL) for the treatment of idiopathic hypotrichosis of the eyelashes. METHODS: This is a monocentric, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study. Forty patients (18 years) with idiopathic hypotrichosis (GEA 1 or 2), who also exhibit feelings of low confidence, based on the ESQ score, were divided into two groups. Group 1: twenty women treated with once-daily 15 keto fluprostenol isopropyl ester gel and Group 2: twenty women treated only with the vehicle gel. RESULTS: Group 1: The average difference in eyelash length measured at the midpoint of palpebral margins between T0 and T2 for Group 1 was 1633 mm and for Group B was 0.25 (P < 0.0001). Comparing the ESQ questionnaires of Groups 1 and 2 from T0 to T2, only the 80% of the patients of Group 1 declared to dedicate less time to the application of cosmetic mascara, having longer and darker lashes at T2 vs patients of Group 2, of which only 20% reported longer and darker eyelashes at T2. About safety, only one patient of Group 1 experienced sensation of ocular sensation heaviness and headache. No other side effects were referred. CONCLUSIONS: 15 keto fluprostenol isopropyl ester gel was effective in enhancing eyelash growth, with an excellent safety profile.