Hypertrichosis of vellus hairs of the malar region after unilateral treatment with bimatoprost.

Purpose: To report hypertrichosis and increased pigmentation of vellus hairs of the malar region associated with topical bimatoprost usage.

Design: Interventional case report

Methods: In a female Hispanic patient with open-angle glaucoma, hypertrichosis, and increased pigmentation of the vellus hairs of the malar region developed after 8 weeks of unilateral treatment with bimatoprost. Increased growth of eyelashes was also noted.

Results: Bimatoprost was discontinued, with the intention of monitoring for resolution of hypertrichosis. The patient epilated the hair because of poor cosmetic appearance. Two months after epilating the hair, growth did not recur.

Conclusions: Increased hair growth in the malar region can be an early side effect of topical use of ocular bimatoprost.