Female Facial Hair

Hirsutism is the term for excessive hair growth in certain areas of the body for women, including unwanted facial hair. 

Having unwanted facial hair may cause distress and also may be an indicator for another condition. Speak with a doctor if you are concerned.

Hirsutism can be caused by an imbalance of sex hormones (i.e. excess male hormones) and can be passed down through your genetics. 

Excess male hormones can be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome, Cushing’s syndrome, tumours or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, however there may be no identifiable cause.

About Vaniqa

Vaniqa cream is a type of facial hair removal cream that will reduce undesired facial hair in women. It contains the active ingredient Eflornithine. It works by blocking an enzyme in the follicles involved in hair growth. Vaniqa is designed to be used alongside standard hair removal methods such as plucking and waxing. After using Vaniqa, you may be able to use these hair removal methods much less often.

To use Vaniqa, apply a thin layer of the cream to the desired areas of your face or under your chin in the morning and at night after washing your face. Vaniqa should be applied before any other facial cosmetics such as sunscreen, moisturiser and make-up. 

Vaniqa can take between four and eight weeks to have an observable effect. If you stop using Vaniqa, the effects of the cream will diminish within eight weeks. After this time your hair will go back to growing just as it did before using Vaniqa. 

Vaniqa is not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also make sure to tell your doctor of any kidney or liver issues before using. Vaniqa is recommended for adult use only.

Vaniqa only slows hair growth. You may still have to use other hair removal methods to remove all undesired hair.

Patient information leaflet:

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6398.pdf

Alternative Treatments

Standard hair removal methods such as plucking hair, waxing and laser hair removal all can work with facial hair reduction cream to further reduce hair growth.

Side Effects

Vaniqa cream:

Very common side effects (affects more than 10% of the population)

• Acne

Common side effects (affects 1-10% of the population)

• Itching 
• Rash
• Dry skin
• Hair loss
• Skin irritation
• Red bumps after shaving
• Inflammation around the hair shaft
• Unpleasant sensations on skin 

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6398.pdf