Careprost and Latisse are both eye solutions containing bimatoprost 0.03%, the ingredient that makes eyelashes grow longer, thicker and darker. Latisse is the brand licensed specifically for eyelash growth; Careprost is an Indian bimatoprost eye drop made by Sun Pharma. Because the active ingredient and strength are the same, the choice mostly comes down to licensing, how the product is supplied and price. This comparison walks through the details.
Careprost vs Latisse at a glance
| Careprost | Latisse | |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Bimatoprost 0.03% | Bimatoprost 0.03% |
| Maker | Sun Pharma, India | Allergan (AbbVie) |
| What it is licensed for | Glaucoma and raised eye pressure (India); used off-label for lashes | Eyelash growth (hypotrichosis), FDA-approved in 2008 |
| Bottle size | 3 ml | 3 ml or 5 ml |
| Applicators included | Only in “with brush” packs | Yes, sterile single-use brushes |
| Licensed in the US, UK or EU | No | Yes in the US (lashes); availability varies elsewhere |
How bimatoprost grows lashes
Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analogue. It was first developed to lower pressure inside the eye in glaucoma, and doctors noticed that patients’ eyelashes grew longer and darker. It works by extending the growth (anagen) phase of the lash follicle and increasing the number of lashes that are growing at any one time. The same molecule at the same 0.03% strength is used in both products, so the growth effect is expected to be the same.
What is actually different?
Licensing and purpose
Latisse is the version approved for cosmetic lash growth, with instructions and applicators designed for that use. Careprost is licensed in India as a glaucoma eye drop; using it on the lash line is an off-label use of the same medicine. Neither is an over-the-counter cosmetic, and both should be used under a doctor’s advice.
Applicators
Latisse comes with sterile, single-use brushes, one for each eye each night. Plain Careprost bottles do not, which is why many people buy Careprost 3 ml with Brush packs. Using a fresh sterile applicator every time is important to avoid eye infections; do not use a mascara wand or cotton bud.
Inactive ingredients
Both are preserved eye solutions, but the exact inactive ingredients can differ between manufacturers. Check the leaflet if you have known sensitivities, particularly to preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride.
Price
Latisse is considerably more expensive per milliliter. Indian bimatoprost products such as Careprost 3 ml and Generic Latisse 3 ml cost much less.
How to apply bimatoprost to your lashes
- Remove make-up and contact lenses, and wash your face.
- Put one drop on a sterile applicator.
- Draw it along the base of the upper lashes, from the inner to the outer corner, where lash meets skin.
- Blot any excess with a tissue and use a fresh applicator for the other eye.
- Do not apply to the lower lashes and do not put drops in the eye for lash growth.
Apply once a night. Using more does not speed things up; it only increases the chance of side effects. Wait 15 minutes before putting contact lenses back in.
What results to expect
Most people notice a difference after about 8 weeks, with the full effect at around 16 weeks. Lashes stay longer and fuller for as long as you keep using it. If you stop, they gradually return to their previous appearance over several weeks to months, as the lash growth cycle resets. Our guide to Careprost for eyelash growth covers routines and results in more detail.
Side effects
The side effects are the same for both products because the medicine is the same:
- itchy, red or dry eyes, which are the most common and usually mild
- darkening of the eyelid skin, which usually fades after stopping
- hair growth on skin that the solution repeatedly touches
- a possible permanent increase in brown pigment in the colored part of the eye (iris), reported mainly with drops placed in the eye
- rarely, a slight hollowing of the area around the eyes
Stop and see a doctor if you develop eye pain, swelling, discharge or any change in vision.
Who should check with a doctor first
Speak to your eye doctor before using either product if you have glaucoma or raised eye pressure (especially if you already use prostaglandin drops, as combining them can reduce their pressure-lowering effect), eye inflammation, a history of eye surgery, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Careprost or Latisse: which should you choose?
- If you want the licensed cosmetic product, Latisse prescribed by a doctor is the approved option.
- If cost matters, bimatoprost 0.03% from brands such as Careprost gives the same active ingredient for less. Buy a pack with sterile brushes, apply once a night, and follow the safety advice above.
See all bimatoprost options in our eyelash care range.
Frequently asked questions
Is Careprost the same as Latisse?
Both contain bimatoprost 0.03%. Latisse is licensed for lash growth and supplied with applicators; Careprost is licensed in India for glaucoma and used off-label on lashes.
Can I use Careprost on my eyebrows?
That is an off-label use without much evidence. Ask a doctor first, and avoid getting it near your eyes.
How long does a 3 ml bottle last?
With one drop per eye each night, a 3 ml bottle typically lasts a couple of months, but throw it away four weeks after opening if the leaflet advises this.
Will my eye color change?
It is uncommon when applied only to the lash line, but it is possible, especially in people with mixed-color (hazel or green-brown) eyes.
General information only. Bimatoprost is a prescription medicine; ask a doctor or eye specialist whether it is suitable for you.
