Does Vaniqa hair removal cream removes facial hair?

Vaniqa hair removal cream (Generic name: Eflornithine) is the first topical drug for the treatment of unwanted facial and chin hair. It does not remove the hair but rather slows its growth. The cells surrounding the base of each hair (called the hair follicle) undergo rapid growth and maturation as they transform into hairs. Certain proteins called polyamines are needed for this rapid cell growth and differentiation, and the production of these polyamines depends on the activity of an enzyme, ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). Vaniqa hair removal cream was approved by the FDA in July 2000.

Apply Vaniqa exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Vaniqa does not permanently remove hair or "cure" unwanted facial hair. It is not a hair remover (depilatory). You will need to continue using your current hair removal techniques. Vaniqa hair removal cream will help you manage your condition and improve your appearance.

Do not wash the treatment areas for at least 4 hours after application. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this occurs, wash the area with water. If the cream gets in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water and contact your doctor. Vaniqa may cause temporary redness, rash, burning, stinging, or tingling, especially if it is applied to broken or irritated skin. If irritation develops, reduce the application of Vaniqa to once a day. If irritation continues, stop using Vaniqa hair removal cream and contact your doctor.

Continue to use Vaniqa hair removal cream even if you do not see immediate results. Reduction in facial hair occurs gradually. Improvement may be seen as early as 4 to 8 weeks of treatment, however it may take longer in some individuals. If no improvement is seen after 6 months of use, treatment with Vaniqa should be discontinued. Hair growth may return to pretreatment levels approximately 8 weeks after discontinuation of treatment with Vaniqa hair removal cream.

Continue to use Vaniqa hair removal cream even if you do not see immediate results. Reduction in facial hair occurs gradually. Improvement may be seen as early as 4 to 8 weeks of treatment, however it may take longer in some individuals. If no improvement is seen after 6 months of use, treatment with Vaniqa should be discontinued. Hair growth may return to pretreatment levels approximately 8 weeks after discontinuation of treatment with Vaniqa hair removal cream.