Does Vaniqa hair removal cream removes facial hair?

Vaniqa facial 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 facial hair removal cream was approved by the FDA in July 2000.

Do not use Vaniqa if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past. Vaniqa is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether eflornithine will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether eflornithine passes into breast milk. Do not use this medicine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Vaniqa has not been approved for use by children younger than 12 years of age.

Cosmetics or sunscreen may be used after applying Vaniqa, but you should wait a few minutes to allow the treatment to be absorbed before applying them.

Before using Vaniqa, talk to your doctor if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, especially if you are using any other topical preparations. You may not be able to use Vaniqa facial hair removal cream, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.

Eflornithine topical is available with a prescription under the brand name Vaniqa facial hair removal cream. Other brand or generic formulations of this medication may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you. Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.