Vaniqa cream is a prescription-only topical treatment containing the active ingredient eflornithine. It is specifically designed to slow the growth of unwanted facial hair in women, particularly around the chin and upper lip.

Vaniqa works by blocking an enzyme involved in hair growth at the hair follicle level. Over time, this results in slower regrowth, with hairs becoming finer, lighter, and less noticeable.

Please note:

• Vaniqa is not suitable for use on body hair
• It is not recommended for children under 12 years old
• It does not remove existing hair and should be used alongside your usual hair removal routine

Always follow the directions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

Vaniqa cream contains eflornithine hydrochloride monohydrate, an active ingredient that targets and blocks the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). This enzyme plays a key role in the production of polyamines, which are essential for hair growth.

By inhibiting ODC activity, Vaniqa slows down the growth of new facial hair. While it doesn’t remove existing hair, regular use results in slower regrowth, with hair becoming finer, softer, and less visible over time.

Vaniqa works best when used consistently alongside your usual hair removal routine.

Vaniqa cream is designed to significantly slow the growth of unwanted facial hair in women, particularly on the chin and upper lip. While it does not remove hair completely, it helps make facial hair less noticeable over time.

With regular use, Vaniqa can:

• Reduce the rate of hair regrowth
• Make hair appear finer, softer, and lighter in colour
• Help facial hair become less coarse and less visible

Vaniqa is most effective when used alongside your usual hair removal routine.

Apply a thin layer of Vaniqa cream to clean, dry skin on the affected areas of the face or chin where unwanted hair is present. Gently rub it in until the cream is fully absorbed and no visible residue remains.

Application Tips:

• Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the cream
• Avoid washing or wetting the treated area for at least 4 hours after application
• You may apply makeup or sunscreen, but wait 5–10 minutes after applying the cream

Treatment Expectations:

• Visible results typically appear within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use
• Vaniqa should be used exactly as directed—do not apply it to other areas or use it more frequently than prescribed
• Continued use is needed to maintain results

If you notice redness, irritation, or sensitivity in the treated area, stop using the cream and consult your doctor.

Apply Vaniqa cream twice daily to the affected areas of the face or chin, leaving at least 8 hours between applications. The cream is only intended for facial use—do not apply it to other parts of the body.

Usage Guidelines:

• The maximum safe amount used in clinical trials is around 30 grams per month
• Results are typically seen within 4 to 8 weeks, although it may take longer for some individuals
• Consistent use is essential to maintain results and suppress unwanted hair growth
• If no improvement is seen after 4 months, treatment may be discontinued
• Stopping the cream may lead to a return of hair growth within 8 weeks
• If irritation occurs, consult your doctor before continuing use

You can continue to shave or pluck hair during treatment. Makeup or cosmetics may be applied to the treated area, but wait 5–10 minutes after applying the cream to allow it to fully absorb.
 

Like all medications, Vaniqa cream may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild and temporary, particularly when the cream is used as directed.

Common Side Effects:

• Redness or irritation of the skin
• Tingling or stinging sensation
• Burning or itching
• Mild rash or swelling
• Dizziness or nausea
• In rare cases, difficulty breathing (seek immediate medical attention)

Less Common Side Effects:

• Acne
• Folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles)

• Consult a dermatologist before starting treatment, especially if you have sensitive skin or are using other topical products.
• Do not use Vaniqa on broken skin, open wounds, or areas with sores or cuts.
• Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes—the cream is for external use only.
• A temporary burning sensation may occur if applied to damaged skin.
• If irritation occurs, reduce application to once daily. If symptoms persist, stop use and consult your doctor.
• Vaniqa is not suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.

Always follow your prescriber’s instructions and refer to the patient information leaflet included with your medication.

No. The effect lasts only while you continue to use the cream. Hair growth will return to normal a few weeks after stopping treatment.

Do not use if you are allergic to eflornithine or any ingredient in the cream. It is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Yes, but wait at least 5 minutes after applying the cream before putting on makeup or sunscreen.

Apply it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next application. Do not apply more than twice a day.