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Article

Bimatoprost Can Increase Growth and Density of Eyebrow Hair: A Prospective Study on a Group of Young Women

by
Piotr Załęcki
1,
Justyna Skakowska
1 and
Danuta Nowicka
1,2,*
1
Faculty of Physiotherapy, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wrocław, Poland
2
Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wrocław Medical University, 50-368 Wrocław, Poland
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(13), 5848; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135848
Submission received: 6 June 2024 / Revised: 30 June 2024 / Accepted: 3 July 2024 / Published: 4 July 2024
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Innovative Cosmetics)
Browse Figures
Versions Notes

Abstract

:
Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analog used in cosmetic products designed to stimulate hair growth, including eyebrows. However, limited study-based evidence confirming its efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction is available. The aim of this study was to investigate whether, and to what extent, bimatoprost affects the density and length of eyebrow hair in young women in comparison to sweet almond oil. The study group included 27 healthy women who used bimatoprost cosmetic preparation once daily for 5 weeks and then crossed over to use sweet almond oil once daily for 5 weeks. Bimatoprost preparation, in comparison to sweet almond oil, improved eyebrow density (70% vs. 30%; p = 0.003) and eyebrow hair elongation (59% vs. 26%; p = 0.014), but not eyebrow hair hydration (59% vs. 89%; p = 0.001) and hair darkness (22% vs. 11%; p = 0.278). The comfort of use was comparable for both preparations (63% vs. 67%; p = 0.996), but treatment satisfaction was significantly higher with bimatoprost (66% vs. 22%; p < 0.001). All reported adverse events were minor, transient, and resolved spontaneously. We conclude that the bimatoprost preparation was significantly more effective than sweet almond oil in improving the density and length of eyebrow hair, with a similar level of safety. Therefore, bimatoprost can be considered an ingredient in cosmetics designed to enhance eyebrow growth; however, further larger studies with extended follow-ups are needed.

1. Introduction

Eyebrows are crucial to facial aesthetics and play a fundamental role in interpersonal communication. Research indicates that eyebrows may be as important as eyes in facial recognition. In contemporary beauty standards, thick and well-shaped eyebrows are considered key elements of attractiveness, particularly for women [1,2,3]. Hair loss negatively affects self-esteem, but eyebrow hypotrichosis receives less attention than scalp alopecia or eyelash hair loss [4,5]. Conservative solutions to improve eyebrow appearance include traditional or permanent makeup, while eyebrow transplantation is an invasive option [6].
In this study, we focus on the impact of prostaglandin derivatives on eyebrow hair growth and thickening. Prostaglandins are naturally occurring eicosanoids derived from arachidonic acid. Known as paracrine hormones, they play a significant role in various physiological processes. Currently, 16 types of prostaglandins have been identified. Their local actions are diverse and often opposing, influencing processes such as inflammation, smooth muscle contraction, blood flow regulation, and chemotaxis [7]. Prostaglandin derivatives are synthetic analogs of naturally occurring prostaglandins. These compounds, known for their significant biological activity, have generated controversy regarding their use in cosmetics intended to promote hair growth [8]. According to the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) report published in 2022, isopropyl cloprostenate is considered safe when used at concentrations of 0.006% and 0.007%. In contrast, it is recommended that ethyl tafluprostamide should not be used at concentrations exceeding 0.018% [9]. However, the report included a caveat: the committee was unable to definitively determine safe concentrations of prostaglandin analogs in cosmetic products due to limited data. Attention was drawn to potential side effects from the uncontrolled use of these substances by consumers. Additionally, the report highlighted the regulatory discrepancies among EU member states regarding products containing prostaglandin analogs, complicating safety assessments. There is ongoing debate about whether prostaglandin analogs should be classified as cosmetics or medicinal products, given their significant biological effects [9]. Bimatoprost, a cosmetic ingredient, remains unassessed by the SCCS, although the Committee is ready to assess evidence supporting the safe use of prostaglandins, including bimatoprost, in cosmetic products.
On the other hand, market research suggests that the popularity of eyelash serums containing bimatoprost that are available both as prescription medicines and over-the-counter products is growing rapidly [10].
Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analog used in cosmetic products to stimulate hair growth, including eyelashes and eyebrows [11,12]. Bimatoprost amide, derived from dichloro-containing bicyclic ketone-6a, was initially developed as an ocular hypotensive agent [13]. Figure 1 shows the chemical structure of the precursor molecule of bimatoprost–dichloro-containing bicyclic ketone 6a (A) and the structure of the bimatoprost molecule (B) [13,14].
Bimatoprost has proven highly effective in treating glaucoma and exhibits neuroprotective properties. This small, synthetic molecule, patented by Allergan, was found to stimulate eyelash growth as a side effect during glaucoma treatment, highlighting its potential application in cosmetics [11,15]. Prostaglandin analogs were found to initiate hair regrowth and melanogenesis during the telogen stage and extend the duration of the anagen phase. Treated hair follicles exhibit larger-sized bulbs [16]. However, the mechanism by which bimatoprost stimulates hair growth is not fully elucidated. Prostaglandin analogs act through receptor-mediated stimulation of the PGF2-alpha receptor and activation of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway [17,18]. Through these mechanisms, prostaglandin analogs exhibit potent vasodilatory properties, which are likely to improve blood flow in the perifollicular vessels, thereby supporting hair follicle health condition and growth. Additionally, they stimulate DNA replication and cell division within hair follicles. These effects are mediated by surface receptors that activate protein kinase C (PKC) family enzymes, essential for regulating cell growth and gene expression in keratinocytes [16]. The number of hair follicles is genetically determined and cannot be altered by topical preparations. However, the use of prostaglandin analogs can lead to the transformation of previously faint or invisible vellus hairs into pigmented, thicker terminal hairs and increase the number of hairs emerging from a single hair follicle [19,20].
Despite increasing evidence supporting the use of prostaglandin analogs for hair growth, there remains limited study-based evidence confirming their efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction. The aim of this study was to investigate how bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog, affects the density and length of eyebrow hair in young women. Due to the short anagen phase of eyebrow hair, the study aimed to assess whether using bimatoprost for a short period can effectively promote hair growth. Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate the safety of applying bimatoprost externally to the skin around the eyebrows.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Participants

The study group included 27 women. The age of the study group was limited to 21–29 years of age to minimize age heterogeneity of the study population. All the participants had to be healthy without any chronic diseases, including skin diseases, that could have impacted their hair condition. The eyebrow hair and adjacent skin had to be healthy and intact. Participants who had undergone treatments altering their hair structure, such as brow lamination, bleaching, or transplants, or who presented with eyebrow hair damage from other procedures, were not considered. Permanent makeup was allowed if the healing process was complete. Additional exclusion criteria included pregnancy and breastfeeding, known allergies to the study product’s ingredients, treatments with prostaglandin-containing products within the past six months, use of any other treatment for eyebrow hair within the past six months, and surgeries or invasive treatments in the eyebrow area within past 12 months.

2.2. Topical Preparation

The study product was an eyebrow conditioner available in drugstores: Long4Lashes Eyelash Growth Accelerator Serum 3 mL (Manufacturer: OCEANIC, Sopot, Poland). The conditioner contains the active substance bimatoprost (confirmed by the manufacturer), a prostaglandin analog. The control product was sweet almond oil (NACOMI, Wilkowice, Poland), which is a known skin conditioning agent [21].

2.3. Study Procedure

This prospective study was conducted between December 2023 and February 2024. Informed consent was obtained from all participants after explaining the purpose and nature of all procedures used. The study has been conducted according to the principles expressed in the Declaration of Helsinki. The approval was received from the University’s Senate Bioethics Committee (approval number: 27/2023; approval date: 29 September 2023).
Participants were instructed on how to prepare and apply the product. They were advised to apply it once daily to clean and dry eyebrow areas, preferably in the evening before bedtime. The product was to be applied using the included applicator, gently swiping it along the eyebrow line with one dip of the applicator per eyebrow. In case of contact with the eyes, participants were instructed to gently rinse the eye with water. They were advised to avoid double application if a dose was missed. Using other cosmetic products and treatments in the eyebrow area during the study was not allowed. If irritation occurred, participants were to rinse the area with water and contact the research team. Any unusual skin reactions were to be documented. Additionally, participants were instructed to store the product in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Four visits were planned: at baseline; at 5 weeks of using the bimatoprost conditioner, after which participants switched the study product to a sweet almond oil; at 10 weeks to measure the effects of sweet almond oil; and at 15 weeks after discontinuation of treatment to assess long-term effects. The study design is shown in Figure 2. Measurements were conducted using the TrichoScope Basic MEDL3H (Dino-Lite Europe, Almere, the Netherlands) at three different points on the eyebrows (Figure 3): the medial end (1), the apex (2), and the lateral of the eyebrow (3) [22]. Both eyebrows were examined. Each participant was assigned an individual identification number, enabling comparison of the obtained images. The trichoscope images were analyzed to assess eyebrow hair density and thickness [23]. Photographic images were captured using a Sony Alpha 6400 camera positioned 50 cm away, illuminated by an LED Yongnuo YN300 III flashlight mounted above the camera. The subject was positioned against a white background, facing directly towards the camera, with eyebrows visible, eyes closed, and a relaxed facial expression.
At visits 2 and 3, participants completed a survey, providing their experiences during the study and self-perceived study effects.

2.4. Statistical Analysis

Statistical analysis was conducted using MedCalc v. 22.023 (MedCalc Software Ltd., Ostend, Belgium). Categorical data, including survey item answers, were presented as numbers and percentages. Comparisons between the groups were carried out using the chi-squared test. The differences were considered statistically significant at a p-value of <0.05.

3. Results

3.1. Participants’ Reported Outcomes

Participants reported their subjective experiences through surveys conducted after each 5-week period of using the products. Compared to participants using sweet almond oil, significantly more bimatoprost users reported improvements in eyebrow density (70% vs. 30%; p = 0.003) and eyebrow hair elongation (59% vs. 26%; p = 0.014). Improvements in hydration were significantly more frequent in the sweet almond oil group than in the bimatoprost group (89% vs. 59%; p = 0.001). There was no difference in perceived color change between the groups. Participants reported similar levels of comfort using both preparations, with the majority finding the topical applications comfortable or very comfortable (63% for the bimatoprost preparation and 67% for the sweet almond oil; p = 0.996). However, perceived satisfaction was significantly higher in the bimatoprost group compared to the sweet almond oil group; 66% of participants in the bimatoprost group were very satisfied or satisfied, compared to 22% in the sweet almond oil group (p < 0.001). The summary of participants’ reported outcomes is presented in Table 1.

3.2. Adverse Events

All reported adverse events were minor, transient, and resolved spontaneously. During the treatment with the bimatoprost preparation, adverse events were reported by 5 participants (18.52%). Participants noted the occurrence of closed comedones and inflammation in the eyebrow area, and one participant experienced temporary pruritus after product application. Four (14.81%) women reported adverse events during the application of sweet almond oil, among which the most frequently reported were closed comedones and inflammation in the eyebrow area. The difference in the frequency of adverse events between the study groups was not significant (p = 0.716).

3.3. Photographic Documentation

Photographic documentation and evaluation by trichoscopy revealed the most significant changes in the areas at the medial end of the eyebrows and at their apex points, which were particularly noticeable in the second measurement after the application of the bimatoprost-containing conditioner. In the subsequent measurement, after using sweet almond oil, no important changes in density were observed. Visual analysis of the trichoscope images taken during the second and third measurements showed an improvement in eyebrow hair hydration, manifested by increased light reflection from the hair cuticle. The most noticeable difference in the number of eyebrow hairs was observed between the first and second trichoscope measurements, which took place after the application of the bimatoprost conditioner (Figure 4).
As documented during trichoscopic measurements, after 5 weeks of using the bimatoprost preparation, most participants exhibited an increase in the number of hairs in the anagen phase. These hairs were characterized by a smaller diameter and lighter coloration. Over time, and following the application of sweet almond oil, the hairs in the anagen phase reached the expected physiological size, indicating normal growth and development in response to the treatment. Participants who initially had higher eyebrow density and thickness achieved less noticeable results after applying the bimatoprost-containing preparation. In areas where there was sparse eyebrow hair, resulting in more visible skin, an increase in hair density was observed (Figure 5). Additionally, no changes in hair structure were observed after the application of any of the tested products. These hairs did not exhibit any distinguishing features that would differentiate them from hairs that were not subjected to the treatment.
As part of the analysis investigating the long-term effects of the products on eyebrow condition, an additional evaluation was conducted 5 weeks after ceasing the use of any cosmetic eyebrow care products. Following this period, no deterioration in eyebrow condition or increase in eyebrow growth was observed (Figure 6).

4. Discussion

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness, safety, and user experience of bimatoprost topical preparation compared to sweet almond oil. We found that participants rated the bimatoprost topical preparation as more effective in improving eyebrow density and eyebrow hair elongation, but less effective in improving eyebrow hair hydration. No difference was found in perceived color change between the groups. Participants reported similar levels of comfort while using both preparations; however, they expressed significantly higher satisfaction with the bimatoprost topical preparation. Adverse events were minor and resolved spontaneously. No structural differences were found in the photographs or trichoscopy images between the groups at the end of each treatment.
There is an ongoing interest in the aesthetic improvement of eyelashes and eyebrow hair. The first FDA-approved medicinal product indicated for the treatment of hypotrichosis of the eyelashes was Latisse. It was launched in 2008. The intended action was to increase the growth, including length, thickness, and darkness of eyelashes. Latisse is available as a 0.03% bimatoprost ophthalmic solution. No contraindications for its use are mentioned in the product leaflet. Among adverse events that occur with a frequency of 3–4% are eye pruritus, conjunctival hyperemia, and skin hyperpigmentation [24]. Latisse was approved for use based on clinical studies. In the first proof-of-concept study, 0.03% bimatoprost solution was applied to the upper eyelid to enhance eyelash growth, color, and thickness. After 3 months, 81% of participants reported that their overall eyelash appearance was much improved, while 19% reported that their overall eyelash appearance was improved [25]. Another study conducted by Allergan aimed to expand the target population for Latisse to include pediatric patients and investigate safety in this population. A multicenter, double-masked, randomized, vehicle-controlled, parallel-group study included pediatric patients after chemotherapy, people suffering from alopecia areata, and adolescents with a non-medical need. The study concluded that the adverse event profile aligns with those reported in previous studies of bimatoprost ophthalmic solution. There were no instances of iris hyperpigmentation or skin hyperpigmentation [25].
The focus of studies on bimatoprost has primarily been on the improvement of the condition of eyelashes. The reason for this was a higher percentage of eyelash changes reported as a side effect in studies investigating the efficacy of prostaglandin analogs in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. In the meta-analysis by Li et al., eyelash change rates varied for different prostaglandin medications; however, all rates were high [26]. In 2013, Fagien et al. [27] conducted a randomized, double-masked, vehicle-controlled, parallel-group study to investigate the effectiveness of bimatoprost for hypotrichosis of the eyelashes. The study included 278 patients and lasted 5 months, with 16 weeks of active treatment. After completion of the active treatment phase, significantly greater improvements from baseline were observed on all Eyelash Satisfaction Questionnaire (ESQ) items, which measured improvement in length, fullness, and overall satisfaction with treatment. Additionally, a comparison between groups revealed that significantly better results were reported by the bimatoprost group than by the vehicle group in terms of length, fullness, and overall satisfaction (weeks 8–20; p ≤ 0.0052); confidence, attractiveness, and professionalism (weeks 12–20; p < 0.0001); and impact on daily routine (weeks 16 and 20; p ≤ 0.01). The authors concluded that the study supported the effectiveness of bimatoprost used once daily in improving eyelash prominence in adults, as assessed through objective measures and patient-reported outcomes. Many other researchers confirmed the effectiveness of bimatoprost in treating hypotrichosis of the eyelashes. In a recent prospective study, Ricar et al. [28] investigated the usefulness of 0.03% bimatoprost for the management of eyelash loss in alopecia totalis and universalis. The patients applied bimatoprost solution to the eyelid margins once daily at bedtime for 12 weeks. The authors reported that an increase in eyelash length and thickness was observed only in those patients who had eyelashes present at the beginning of the study, and that there was no induction of new eyelash growth.
Fewer studies have been conducted to explore the effectiveness of bimatoprost for enhancing eyebrows; however, bimatoprost solution is considered a potential off-label treatment for eyebrow hypotrichosis [29]. In our study, participants found bimatoprost preparation significantly more effective in improving eyebrow density and eyebrow hair elongation in comparison to sweet almond oil, although these findings were not confirmed by trichoscopy. Riahi and Cohen [30] described a case of a 60-year-old woman with idiopathic eyebrow hypotrichosis who used a 0.03% bimatoprost solution once a day for 8 months. Alopecia in this woman was excluded. The researchers reported excellent and sustained growth of her hair, which became gradually visible over the observation period, as photographically documented. In a study by Carruthers et al. [31], bimatoprost was significantly more effective in terms of hair growth and color change than a placebo. It is worth noting that the study conducted by Carruthers et al. [31] was a multicenter, double-masked, randomized trial involving 357 participants with eyebrow hypotrichosis, with results compared between three groups: bimatoprost 0.03% twice or once daily or vehicle twice daily. The primary endpoint was the 1-grade increase on the Global Eyebrow Assessment (GEBA), which, after 7 months, was achieved by 83.9% of patients on bimatoprost used twice daily and 77.1% of patients on bimatoprost once daily in comparison to 43.0% of participants using the vehicle only (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). An average increase in eyebrow fullness, as measured with Digital Monitoring System Image Analysis (DMSIA), was 34.51 mm2 in the bimatoprost twice-daily group and 30.96 mm2 in the bimatoprost once-daily group versus 6.42 mm2 in the vehicle group (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). Also, eyebrow darkness increased significantly when both bimatoprost groups (−4.53 IU and −3.76 IU) were compared with the vehicle group (0.11 IU) (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). Significantly more participants were satisfied with bimatoprost compared to the vehicle group starting from the second month, and this satisfaction level was maintained until the end of the study. Vergilis–Kalner [32] conducted a study in which 10 women randomly used bimatoprost on one eyebrow and a placebo on the other (split-face study) for 6 weeks. All participants reported significant subjective improvement in eyebrow hair growth, which was objectively confirmed by photographic documentation. In another split-face study, Suchonwanit et al. [33] investigated the efficacy and safety of 0.01% and 0.03% bimatoprost in 30 patients suffering from eyebrow hypotrichosis. As assessed using the GEBA, both concentrations significantly improved eyebrow density and diameter (p < 0.05); 0.03% bimatoprost was numerically, but not significantly, better than 0.01% bimatoprost. Furthermore, patients preferred 0.03% bimatoprost due to its superior clinical effectiveness and perceived treatment satisfaction, with p-values of 0.04 and 0.003, respectively.
Studies from the literature also compared bimatoprost to other substances used to promote hair growth, such as minoxidil. Zaky et al. [34] recruited 60 adult women with eyebrow hypotrichosis, defined as a Grade 1 or 2 on the GEBA scale, to investigate the efficacy and safety of 0.01% and 0.03% bimatoprost and 2% minoxidil preparations. This was a well-designed, randomized, controlled trial. There was a significant improvement at 4 months, defined as at least a one-grade increase on the GEBA scale. The percentages were 100% in the 0.03% bimatoprost group, 80% in the 0.01% bimatoprost group, and 80% in the 2% minoxidil group, with no significant differences between the study groups. All three groups showed a significant increase in hair diameter and hair count compared to the baseline. The largest numerical increase in hair diameter and count was observed in the 0.03% bimatoprost group compared to the other study groups, but it did not reach statistical significance. Patients using 0.03% bimatoprost reported significantly higher satisfaction with the treatment (8.0 ± 0.65) compared to those using 0.01% bimatoprost (6.80 ± 0.62; p ≤ 0.01) and 2% minoxidil (6.60 ± 0.50; p ≤ 0.01).
Experts consider bimatoprost useful in the treatment of hair loss caused by different pathological conditions and in different body areas. Barron–Hernandez and Tosti [35] underscore the potential use of bimatoprost in idiopathic hypotrichosis of the eyelashes and eyebrows, as well as in patients with alopecia areata of the eyelashes and eyebrows. Other potential areas considered by experts include the use of bimatoprost in patients who have lost hair during cancer treatment or have hormonal disorders in androgenetic alopecia. A recent comprehensive review by Baiyasi et al. [10] stated that for the improvement of the eyelashes, 0.03% bimatoprost solution has been supported by strong Level 1, Grade A evidence and 0.03% bimatoprost gel by Level 2, Grade B evidence. There is still a need for further research to gather evidence supporting the efficacy of bimatoprost in the treatment of eyebrow hypotrichosis. There is also a need for more regulated use of bimatoprost in cosmetics. The European Commission [36] noted an increase in the use of cosmetics containing prostaglandins marketed for promoting hair growth. However, tracking the safety of such products is challenging due to consumers’ lack of awareness regarding active ingredients and their dosages, as well as insufficient reporting of adverse events related to cosmetics. As a result, the European Commission issued a call to academic institutions, research institutes, authorities, and cosmetic product manufacturers to share any scientific information relevant to the safety assessment of prostaglandins and their analogs used in cosmetics. This call was prompted by the significant adverse effects associated with the use of cosmetic products for eyelash growth, underscoring the urgent need for large well-designed studies on using prostaglandins and their analogs for non-medical needs.
Our study confirmed a favorable safety profile of bimatoprost preparation. All the reported adverse effects were minor and resolved spontaneously with similar frequency between the study groups. The rate of any adverse reactions in our study was 18.52%, which was comparable to the level of adverse reactions in the sweet almond oil group. Our findings are in line with those provided by other researchers. They included closed comedones and irritation of the application area (inflammation and itching). Carruthers et al. [31] reported comparable levels of adverse events in subjects using bimatoprost once- and twice-daily, and in those using a vehicle (42.4%, 38.1%, and 35.5%, respectively). Adverse events related to skin and subcutaneous tissue occurred in 4.2%, 5.1%, and 2.5% of participants from the study groups, respectively. Actinic keratosis was reported in 1 subject from the bimatoprost once-daily group and 3 subjects from the vehicle group. Importantly, no cases of hyperpigmentation or conjunctival hyperemia were reported. Suchonwanit et al. [33] reported only pruritus as a side effect in 4 of 28 study participants. In all cases, pruritus was mild, resolved spontaneously, and did not result in treatment discontinuation. Zaky et al. [34] reported two cases of pruritis and one case of mild erythema which resolved spontaneously. No adverse events related to bimatoprost were reported by other researchers [30,32].
The study has several limitations that must be considered when interpreting the results. We used a commercially available cosmetic preparation in which the exact concentration of bimatoprost was not provided due to the manufacturer’s proprietary formulation protection. The unknown amount of bimatoprost in the study product complicates comparisons with results from the literature. This study included only participants who self-rated their health as good. We did not perform detailed laboratory diagnostics to assess overall health, including factors such as hormonal disorders, skin problems, or general health issues, which Natarelli et al. [37] describe as important for hair growth. A comprehensive health assessment would allow for the exclusion of individuals with conditions that could affect the study results or cause health complications and shall be considered in future studies. Furthermore, we did not use photo-trichograms to determine the number and thickness of hairs per unit area for each part of the eyebrow, which would allow for a more precise evaluation of the treatment effect.

5. Conclusions

Our study indicates that bimatoprost preparation is significantly more effective than sweet almond oil in improving the density and length of eyebrow hair, with a similar level of safety. However, the effect is not maintained after discontinuing the treatment. Therefore, bimatoprost can be considered an ingredient in cosmetics designed to enhance eyebrow growth. This could have significant implications for cosmetic practices, providing effective solutions for individuals struggling with eyebrow loss or poor eyebrow hair condition.
The analysis of the results also underscores the need to expand research to better understand the long-term effects of using bimatoprost-containing preparations and the full spectrum of potential side effects. Future studies should include larger sample sizes and longer observation periods to thoroughly evaluate the safety and efficacy of these products. Additionally, research should incorporate more diverse study groups and employ more precise measurement methods to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of bimatoprost and its impact on the biological processes involved in eyebrow growth.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, P.Z. and D.N.; methodology, P.Z. and D.N.; formal analysis, J.S. and D.N.; investigation, J.S. and P.Z.; writing—original draft preparation, J.S. and D.N.; writing—review and editing, P.Z. and D.N.; visualization, J.S. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement

The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the University’s Senate Bioethics Committee (approval number: 27/2023; approval date: 29 September 2023).

Informed Consent Statement

Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study. Written informed consent has been obtained from the subjects to publish this paper.

Data Availability Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available on request from the corresponding author.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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Figure 1. The chemical structure of the precursor molecule of the bimatoprost–dichloro-containing bicyclic ketone 6a (A) and the structure of the bimatoprost molecule (B) [13,14].
Figure 1. The chemical structure of the precursor molecule of the bimatoprost–dichloro-containing bicyclic ketone 6a (A) and the structure of the bimatoprost molecule (B) [13,14].
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Figure 2. Study design.
Figure 2. Study design.
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Figure 3. Points of trichoscopy measurements.
Figure 3. Points of trichoscopy measurements.
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Figure 4. Photograph and trichoscopy images depicting eyebrows: top at baseline, middle after using the bimatoprost topical preparation, and bottom after using the sweet almond oil. Arrows indicate the area of the trichoscopy image.
Figure 4. Photograph and trichoscopy images depicting eyebrows: top at baseline, middle after using the bimatoprost topical preparation, and bottom after using the sweet almond oil. Arrows indicate the area of the trichoscopy image.
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Figure 5. Photographs and trichoscopy images depicting areas of sparse eyebrow hair: top at baseline, middle after using the bimatoprost topical preparation, and bottom after using the sweet almond oil. Arrows indicate the area of the trichoscopy image.
Figure 5. Photographs and trichoscopy images depicting areas of sparse eyebrow hair: top at baseline, middle after using the bimatoprost topical preparation, and bottom after using the sweet almond oil. Arrows indicate the area of the trichoscopy image.
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Figure 6. Trichoscopy images depicting eyebrows over 15 weeks of the study.
Figure 6. Trichoscopy images depicting eyebrows over 15 weeks of the study.
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Table 1. Participants’ reported outcomes on eyebrow hair after treatment with bimatoprost and sweet almond oil.
Table 1. Participants’ reported outcomes on eyebrow hair after treatment with bimatoprost and sweet almond oil.
Survey ItemAnswerBimatoprost
n (%)		Sweet Almond Oil
n (%)		p-Value
Improvement in eyebrow densityYes19 (70.37)8 (29.63)0.003
No8 (29.63)19 (70.37)
Eyebrow hair elongationYes16 (59.26)7 (25.93)0.014
No11 (40.74)20 (74.07)
Eyebrow hair thickeningYes9 (33.33)10 (37.04)0.778
No18 (66.67)17 (62.96)
Eyebrow hair hydrationYes16 (59.26)24 (88.89)0.001
No11 (40.74)1 (3.70)
Darkening of eyebrowsYes6 (22.22)3 (11.11)0.278
No21 (77.78)24 (88.89)
Comfort using the preparationVery comfortable12 (44.44)12 (44.44)0.996
Comfortable5 (18.52)6 (22.22)
Undecided1 (3.70)1 (3.70)
Uncomfortable3 (11.11)3 (11.11)
Very uncomfortable6 (22.22)5 (18.52)
Treatment satisfactionVery satisfied6 (22.22)3 (11.11)<0.001
Satisfied9 (33.33)3 (11.11)
Undecided9 (33.33)12 (44.44)
Dissatisfied3 (11.11)8 (29.63)
Very dissatisfied0 (0.00)1 (3.70)
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MDPI and ACS Style

Załęcki, P.; Skakowska, J.; Nowicka, D. Bimatoprost Can Increase Growth and Density of Eyebrow Hair: A Prospective Study on a Group of Young Women. Appl. Sci. 2024, 14, 5848. https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135848

AMA Style

Załęcki P, Skakowska J, Nowicka D. Bimatoprost Can Increase Growth and Density of Eyebrow Hair: A Prospective Study on a Group of Young Women. Applied Sciences. 2024; 14(13):5848. https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135848

Chicago/Turabian Style

Załęcki, Piotr, Justyna Skakowska, and Danuta Nowicka. 2024. "Bimatoprost Can Increase Growth and Density of Eyebrow Hair: A Prospective Study on a Group of Young Women" Applied Sciences 14, no. 13: 5848. https://doi.org/10.3390/app14135848

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