Allergan to seek Q3 approval for eyelash extender

June 4 (Reuters) - Allergan Inc (AGN.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) said on Wednesday it plans to apply to U.S. health regulators for marketing approval for its eyelash extender by the end of the third quarter.

The maker of the wrinkle-filler Botox said it has completed testing of the product, bimatoprost, and saw significant eyelash growth when it was applied directly to the base of eyelashes.

Allergan said it expects bimatoprost to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration next year.

The Irvine, California-based company is targeting sales of $500 million per year for the product in stimulating eyelash growth. It said the global mascara market is worth $3.7 billion a year, according to data from various agencies.

Allergan said if it wins FDA approval, U.S. purchasers will be able to obtain bimatoprost only by prescription. (Reporting by Varsha Tickoo)