Vaniqa

Evidence Basedcheckmark

Vaniqa (generic name: eflornithine) is a FDA-approved topical prescription unwanted facial hair removal solution for women.

Vaniqa Overview - 885

The Skinny


Average Recovery

0 days

Permanence

Temporary

Application

Topical

Surgical

No

Cost

$150 - $210

The Specifics


What is Vaniqa?

Vaniqa is a United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved topical perscription for hair removal in women with excessive or unwanted facial hair. In contrast to depilatory creams, which work by dissolving the hair follicle structure, Vaniqa cream slows down hair growth in the facial hair area of women. Vaniqa is designed to be used with other hair removal techniques like plucking, waxing, shaving and tweezing to achieve the desired results.

What cosmetic concerns does Vaniqa treat?

  1. Unwanted Hair: Vaniqa works by interfering with an enzyme in the hair follicle of the treated area during the growth phase to thin hair and slow hair growth.

Who is the ideal candidate for Vaniqa?

The ideal candidate for Vaniqa is a female seeking a topical solution for unwanted hair growth on the face. Vaniqa is not recommended for those with sensitive skin types or children under 12 years of age.

What is the average recovery associated with Vaniqa?

There is no recovery time associated with Vaniqa use. Skin may be sensitive after application and patients are advised to use gentle skincare (moisturizers, aloe, or vitamin E), and wear loose, non-abrasive clothing.

What are the potential side effects of Vaniqa?

Possible side effects associated with the use of Vaniqa include dry skin, stinging, burning, temporary redness, flaking/peeling, itching, skin irritation, folliculitis, and skin sensitivity in the affected areas, drug interactions, and allergic reaction.

What can someone expect from the results of Vaniqa?

The results of a Vaniqa develop gradually over four to eight weeks of treatment as unwanted facial hair thins and hair growth slows. Vaniqa must be used indefinitely to maintain results. Vaniqa should be discontinued if there is no improvement after six months of use.

What is the average cost of Vaniqa?

The average cost of Vaniqa is $150 to $210, but may be dependent on insurance. The actual cost of the Vaniqa will vary by location, healthcare professional, and individual candidate needs.

thumbs-upPros

  • Thins Hair
  • Slows Hair Growth

thumbs-downCons

  • Only For The Face
  • Does Not Remove Hair

Invasiveness Score

1
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10

Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.

What to Expect


Vaniqa is a topical prescription cream that is FDA-approved to reduce unwanted facial hair. Here is a quick for what to expect before, during, and after treatment with Vaniqa.

The Takeaway


Vaniqa is a brand name product containing the hair removal cream ingredient eflornithine. It is used in females with unwanted facial hair. This FDA approved hair removal technique must be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider.

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Source List

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AEDIT uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. American Academy of Dermatology Association Hair Loss: Tips for Managing aad.org
  2. Paul T Rose Advances in Hair Restoration PubMed.gov; 2018-01-01
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