What is Vaniqa Cream?

Vaniqa cream is a prescription-only topical treatment used by women to slow the growth of unwanted facial hair (hirsutism), particularly on the chin and upper lip. It contains the active ingredient eflornithine hydrochloride 11.5%, which works by reducing hair growth from the follicles. Vaniqa cream is manufactured by Almirall Limited.

What is Vaniqa 11.5% Cream Used For?

Vaniqa is a topical cream used to reduce excessive facial hair growth in women and is suitable for use on the face and under the chin.

Unlike other hair removal creams, such as Veet or Nair, Vaniqa works deeper within the skin to slow hair growth, making it easier to manage.

“Vaniqa can effectively reduce the symptoms of Hirsutism – a condition that causes excessive hair growth in women. It doesn’t get rid of the unwanted hair immediately, but instead it slows down the growth of hairs over time so the patient doesn’t need to eliminate the unwanted hairs as often as they would.” Mohamed Imran Lakhi, Superintendant Pharmacist.

The cause of hirsutism is usually due to an excess amount of androgens (male sex hormones) or a sensitivity to these hormones. However, this can be caused by other underlying health conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or the menopause.

Vaniqa is only indicated for use by women.

Hirsutism Treatment with Vaniqa Cream: An Overview

Hirsutism is a condition that causes excessive hair growth of thick or coarse hair in women in areas such as the upper lip, chin, chest, abdomen, lower back, buttocks, or thighs.

If an underlying condition is causing hirsutism, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the treatment would need to target the source of the problem. One such treatment is Vaniqa Cream, which can effectively manage the symptoms of facial hirsutism by reducing facial hair growth, but it does not remove unwanted hair. That means you will need to continue with your preferred hair removal method.

There are a number of things you can do to remove and manage unwanted hair, including:

Shaving: A popular and effective method of hair removal. It is a common myth that shaving hair causes hair to grow back faster and thicker. Shaving can result in stubble, which may be undesirable.
Waxing: Another popular option for hair removal. While this may be suitable for hair on the legs, arms, abdomen and chest, it should be used with caution when waxing the face. Scarring can occur from waxing.
Depilatories: Creams that, when applied to the affected area, dissolve the hair. Unlike shaving, this method does not cause stubble. Perform a patch test before using them.
Hair removal therapies: Can be performed by specialist clinicians but are both costly and time-consuming. Examples include electrolysis, laser hair removal, and intense pulsed light therapy.

How Does Vaniqa Work?

The active ingredient, eflornithine, inhibits an enzyme known as ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). This enzyme plays a key role in cell proliferation during the hair growth cycle. By limiting this enzyme, the hair growth cycle slows down.

Hyperandrogenism (excessive production of male sex hormones in the female body) has been linked with increased activity of the ODC enzyme, resulting in virilisation (development of male sexual characteristics in females).

Vaniqa is not a depilatory cream and does not remove hair. It slows down hair growth to make it more manageable. The cream can be used in conjunction with other hair removal methods, such as shaving or plucking.

How Long Does Vaniqa Cream Take to Work?

It can take up to 8 weeks (approximately 2 months) for you to start seeing results, during which time you must continue using the cream. If you do not notice an improvement after 4 months, contact your doctor.

Vaniqa Results: Does Vaniqa Work?

Vaniqa is an effective treatment for facial hirsutism in women. Research shows that after 24 weeks, eflornithine improved the appearance of facial hirsutism in 58% of people, compared with 34% in those given a placebo.

Another study involving 596 women treated with Vaniqa or a vehicle cream (a substance used in dermatology to deliver active medications into the skin) for 24 weeks had the following results:

Result	Vaniqa 11.5% cream	Vehicle cream
Clear/almost clear	6%	0%
Marked improvement	29%	9%
Improved	35%	33%
No improvement/worse	30%	58%

In total, 70% of people given Vaniqa noticed improvement in facial hirsutism, compared with 42% of those given a vehicle. Compared to hair removal cream, Vaniqa works by slowing the growth of unwanted facial hair, reducing its growth rate and making it finer and lighter, with results usually noticeable within 8 weeks.

How to Use Vaniqa Cream

Vaniqa should be used twice daily, with at least 8 hours between doses. Always follow the doctor’s instructions.

Wait 5 minutes after using another hair removal method, such as shaving, before applying Vaniqa cream. The process is as follows:

Clean and dry the area of application.
Apply a thin layer of Vaniqa and rub thoroughly into the affected area.
Wash your hands after applying the cream.
Do not wash the application area for 4 hours after applying Vaniqa (if possible).
Wait at least 5 minutes after applying Vaniqa before applying make-up, sunscreen or other skin products to the affected area.

If you experience any irritation, such as stinging or burning, after applying Vaniqa, reduce the number of times you apply the cream to once a day until the irritation has gone. If the irritation continues, speak to your clinician for advice.

Avoid allowing the cream to come into contact with your eyes, the inside of your nose, or your mouth. If you accidentally get Vaniqa in your eyes, nose or mouth, rinse the area with water. If you accidentally swallow some Vaniqa cream, contact your doctor immediately.

What if I Use Too Much Vaniqa Eflornithine Cream?

If you apply too much Vaniqa, it’s unlikely to cause harm, but it can increase skin irritation, such as stinging, burning, or dryness. Simply wipe away the excess with a tissue. You can also reduce the number of applications per day to one until your skin gets used to the active ingredient.

What if I Forget to Apply Vaniqa Cream?

If you forget to apply Vaniqa cream, apply it as soon as you remember, but wait 8 hours before the next dose.

Vaniqa Cream Side Effects

All medicines carry the risk of side effects, though not everyone will experience them. It is important to be aware of the risks associated with your medication before taking it. If any of the following side effects concern you, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist.

Possible Vaniqa side effects include:

Very Common

(affects more than 1 in 10 users)

Common

(affects 1 to 10 users in 100)

Uncommon

(affects 1 to 10 users in 1,000)

Rare

(affects 1 to 10 users in 10,000)

Acne

Dry skin
Hair loss
Inflammation around the hair shaft
Itching
Rash
Redness
Skin irritation caused by shaving
Skin irritation
Stinging, tingling, or burning

Bumpy rash
Cold sores
Redness and irritation where the cream is applied
Eczema
Inflamed, dry, or cracked lips
Ingrowing hairs
Pale areas of skin
Skin bleeding
Skin boils
Skin flushing
Skin inflammation
Sore skin
Swelling of the mouth or face
Unusual hair texture or growth

Abnormal skin growth
Excessive hair growth
Flushing, facial redness and pimples
Other skin disorders
Red, scaly, or itchy skin inflammation
Red, bumpy or blistering rash
Skin cysts
Skin tightness

Be aware that this is not a complete list of Vaniqa cream side effects. More information can be found within the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with the treatment. If irritation, such as stinging or burning, occurs, reduce use to once daily until it settles. If irritation continues, contact your clinician.

If you experience any side effects, regardless of whether they are listed above or in the patient information leaflet, inform your doctor or speak to a pharmacist. You can also report them to the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Yellow Card scheme.

Eflornithine (Vaniqa) Interactions and Warnings

Do not use Vaniqa 11.5% cream if:

You are allergic to eflornithine or any other ingredients listed in the patient leaflet

It’s important to consult your clinician or pharmacist before using the medication if you:

Have any kidney or liver issues
Are not sure if you should use Vaniqa cream

Some medical conditions can cause excessive hair growth. If you have polycystic ovary syndrome or specific hormone-producing tumours, speak to your clinician or doctor before using Vaniqa cream.

Vaniqa contains cetostearyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, which can cause skin irritation. It also contains methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218) and propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216), which can cause allergic reactions.

Potential Vaniqa Cream Interactions

Before using Vaniqa cream, tell the clinician about any prescribed, over-the-counter, or herbal medications you are taking, and if you need to use any other medicines on the area of skin you are using Vaniqa.

If you take any of the following medicines that can induce hair growth, speak to your clinician before using Vaniqa cream:

Cyclosporine
Glucocorticoids
Minoxidil
Phenobarbitone
Phenytoin
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with male hormone-like effects

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Vaniqa should not be used if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Please use alternative forms of hair removal if you are or are planning to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while using Vaniqa, stop taking the treatment and speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

Where Can I Buy Vaniqa Cream in the USA and UK?

Vaniqa is a prescription-only cream used to treat excessive facial hair growth in women. It is available in the UK with a private prescription from private clinics or online pharmacies following a short consultation. It may not always be available on the NHS.

Can I Buy Vaniqa Without a Prior Prescription?

No, you will need a prior prescription because Vaniqa is classified as a prescription-only medicine, so a clinician must check that it is safe and suitable for you to use.

You can get a prescription from reputable online services, like Prescription Doctor. You will need to complete a short medical questionnaire for our clinician to review so they can check that it is the right medication for you.

Is Vaniqa Cream on the NHS?

No, Vaniqa cream is not generally available on the NHS because it is classed as a cosmetic treatment. It may be available in some areas, but availability depends on individual circumstances.

Can I Buy Vaniqa Cream Online?

Yes, you can buy Vaniqa cream from a trusted, reputable online pharmacy after completing a short questionnaire. It cannot be bought without a consultation or a valid prescription. At United Pharmacy Shop, we can provide a prescription and dispatch your medication as part of our service.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vaniqa Cream

What’s the Difference Between Hirsutism and Hypertrichosis?

The primary difference between hirsutism and hypertrichosis is that hirsutism involves the growth of hair (typically in women) that follows a male pattern of growth. In contrast, hypertrichosis refers to the general development of hair, noticeable in both sexes.

Should I Be Concerned About the Hair On My Face?

Not necessarily. Fine, light facial hair is normal, but thick, dark facial hair, neck hair, or chest hair in women should be discussed with a doctor, as it may indicate an underlying health condition, such as a hormonal imbalance caused by PCOS.

If you have excessive hair growth, irregular periods, acne, or if the hair growth is affecting your confidence, contact your doctor for advice.

Can I Stop Shaving or Waxing When Using Vaniqa Cream?

When using Vaniqa, you should not stop shaving or waxing. The active ingredient, eflornithine, works by slowing down the growth of new hair and making it finer and lighter. This helps to make the hair less noticeable, but it does not stop it from growing completely.

What Happens if I Stop Using Vaniqa 11.5% Cream?

If you stop using Vaniqa, your hair growth will return to its pre-treatment rate, as early as 8 weeks after stopping treatment. Vaniqa inhibits the enzyme responsible for hair growth, but it does not permanently remove hair. Therefore, it is important to use Vaniqa consistently, and ongoing application is required to maintain the reduction in hair growth.

Can Men Use Vaniqa Facial Hair Removal Cream?

No, Vaniqa is specifically licensed to treat unwanted facial hair in women over the age of 18 and is not recommended for use by men.

Can I Use Vaniqa for Body Hair or on Other Body Parts?

No, Vaniqa should only be applied to the face and chin to treat facial hirsutism. It is not advised to use it on other parts of the body. Using Vaniqa on large areas of the body increases the medication’s absorption into the bloodstream, which can increase the risk of side effects.

Does Vaniqa Work on Blonde Facial Hair?

Yes, Vaniqa cream works on blonde and light coloured facial hair. Because it works by inhibiting the enzyme in hair follicles that promotes growth rather than targeting hair pigment, Vaniqa slows hair growth regardless of hair colour, making it suitable for all colours, including blonde.

Is Long-Term Use of Vaniqa Dangerous?

Vaniqa may need to be used continuously to maintain the reduction in hair growth. You should use it exactly as your clinician prescribes and speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns about the long-term use of Vaniqa.

Can Someone Be Allergic to Vaniqa?

Developing an allergy to Vaniqa is rare, but if you have known allergies to ingredients in skin creams, you should check the ingredient list in the Patient Information Leaflet.

How Do I Store Vaniqa?

Vaniqa cream should be stored at room temperature below 25℃. You should throw away any opened tubes with any remaining cream after 6 months. If the cream has passed the expiry date printed on the box and the bottom of the tube, do not use it. Never throw away medicine via household or water waste. Take any unwanted or expired medicine to your local pharmacy and ask them to dispose of it safely on your behalf