Vaniqa hair removal cream interferes with a chemical in the hair follicles of the skin. This results in slower hair growth where Vaniqa is applied. Vaniqa is used to reduce unwanted facial hair in women. It does not permanently remove hair or "cure" unwanted facial hair. However it will help you manage your condition and improve your appearance. 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.
Vaniqa hair removal cream is for external use only. Continue to use Vaniqa 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.
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.
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.
Eflornithine topical is available with a prescription under the brand name Vaniqa 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.