If you have unwanted facial hair, also known as UFH, you may have tried every method under the sun to get rid of it, from plucking to threading, waxing, depilatory creams, electrolysis and laser removal. There are many ways to go about it. The hair removal market is large.
Recent advances include a cream called Vaniqa. Vaniqa is a non-hormone facial cream used to treat female facial hair.
How does Vaniqa work?
The cream works by slowing hair growth at the follicular level. Its active ingredient eflorinithine penetrates to the base of the hair follicles and affects one of the key enzymes necessary for hair growth.
Vaniqa decreases the growth of new hair but does not act as a hair removal cream. It can and should be used alongside the hair removal (depilatory) method of your choice, and can even be used at the same time as laser treatments and electrolysis.
How quickly will I see results?
Vaniqa takes some time to take effect; from about eight weeks to four months. In some cases no improvement is seen after four months, and at that point patients should stop using the treatment.
It is also important to note that the cream is only effective whilst being used. It is not a permanent solution for unwanted facial hair, but rather an ongoing treatment option.
How to Use Vaniqa
Vaniqa is rubbed into problem areas of the face twice daily, normally the upper lip and the chin. It has not been proven more effective if used more often, and catch up applications are not required if you miss an application. Two 30 gram tubes should last for about two months, during which time its effectiveness can be gauged.
Although side effects are rare, the cream can cause stinging, tingling, redness or soreness of the skin. These sensations are rarely enough to cause the user to stop Vaniqa.
Vaniqa has not been proven to be harmful if used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, however to err on the safe side, it is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing.
A word on Unwanted Facial Hair
Women who are plagued by unwanted facial hair or Hirsutism may find that it affects their self-esteem. It can contribute to depression and anxiety, and it is understandable that many seek a permanent cure.
Female facial hair is often caused by hormonal changes and imbalances and some of which can be treated using prescription medication. It is important for women who are concerned about facial hair to discuss it with their doctor in order to rule out any significant underlying condition. Doctors and skincare specialists can also help determine an appropriate course of treatment or hair removal. You can learn more about Hirsutism here.
Note that most NHS doctors do not prescribe Vaniqa because of its cost. Vaniqa is a prescription-only medicine but can be obtained through an online consultation and prescription from a reputable online pharmacy.