Female Facial Hair
Hirsutism, or excess facial hair in women, can be caused by hormonal imbalances and may affect self-confidence and wellbeing. While it is not usually a health risk, appropriate treatments can help manage hair growth and improve appearance over time. Lifestyle measures and ongoing monitoring can also support long-term results.
Through 123Meds, you can receive expert-approved treatments for female facial hair via our UK-registered online pharmacy service, with prescriptions reviewed by clinicians and delivered discreetly straight to your door.
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Female Facial Hair
All women have facial and body hair, which is usually fine and light. In some cases, it may grow thicker, darker, or coarser, which is completely normal and not medically harmful. Many women manage it with regular hair removal methods, but for some, it can be stressful or distressing.
Managing coarse facial hair with over-the-counter creams or waxing can be difficult and time-consuming. For those who find it challenging, prescription treatments are available to help reduce hair growth effectively.
Excess facial hair in women is often caused by increased levels of androgens (male hormones) or a heightened sensitivity to these hormones. There are several possible causes:
Genetics
Some women are naturally more likely to develop thicker, darker facial hair due to their genetic background. This is more common in women from Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or South Asian backgrounds.
Medication
Certain medicines, such as anabolic steroids, can trigger excess hair growth. If you're taking one of these and are concerned about side effects, speak to your GP about possible alternatives.
Medical Conditions
Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can cause hormone imbalances that lead to increased hair growth. If you notice sudden or unusual changes in hair growth, it’s best to speak with your GP to rule out any underlying medical issues before starting treatment.
Excessive female facial hair, also known as hirsutism, is when hair grows darker, thicker, and more coarsely than usual on areas where women typically have finer, lighter hair. It affects many women in the UK and can be distressing for those experiencing it.
In women with hirsutism, hair often appears on the face (such as the upper lip or chin), neck, chest, tummy (in a line from the belly button to the pubic area), genitals, anal area, and the front of the thighs. At 123Meds, we offer Vaniqa cream, which is licensed specifically for the treatment of facial hair in women.
Other symptoms may also be present in women with hormone-related hair growth, including oily skin, acne, hair thinning or hair loss, and voice changes, such as a deeper tone. These symptoms are usually linked to increased levels of male hormones (androgens) or increased sensitivity to them.
Vaniqa Cream
Vaniqa is the only UK-licensed non-hormonal cream for reducing unwanted facial hair in women. Studies show that around 70% of women see improvement, with 30% noticing significant results after 24 weeks of consistent use.
If Vaniqa isn’t suitable, there are several other treatment options:
At-Home Hair Removal Methods
Shaving
Quick and safe, shaving can be done daily but may cause skin irritation. Using gentle skincare products can help reduce this.
Waxing
Removes hair from the root for longer-lasting results than shaving, but may be painful and cause short-term redness or irritation.
Epilation
Similar to waxing, epilators remove hair at the root. Exfoliating beforehand can help prevent ingrown hairs.
Bleaching
Lightens the hair to make it less visible. Ideal for fine facial hair, but always patch test first to avoid irritation or allergic reactions.
Professional Treatments
Electrolysis
A fine needle delivers electrical currents to destroy hair follicles. While potentially uncomfortable, this method offers long-lasting results with repeat sessions.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser treatment offers longer-term results but requires multiple sessions and ongoing maintenance. Risks include skin irritation, scarring, or pigmentation changes.
Hormonal Treatment
The Contraceptive Pill
In premenopausal women, certain contraceptive pills can help regulate hormones and reduce hair growth over time.
For more information on facial hair treatment or to request Vaniqa cream, start your online consultation with 123Meds today.
Is it normal for women to have facial hair?
Yes – it’s completely normal for women to have some facial hair, especially around the upper lip, chin, or jawline. The amount and thickness can vary depending on genetics, age, and hormone levels.
What causes excess facial hair in women?
Excess facial hair (also known as hirsutism) can be triggered by higher levels of androgens (male hormones), certain medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or as a side effect of some medications.
What is Vaniqa and how does it work?
Vaniqa (Eflornithine 11.5% cream) is a prescription-only treatment that slows the growth of facial hair over time. It doesn’t remove hair but reduces its growth rate and makes regrowth finer and less visible. It is typically applied twice daily, with results seen after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
Is facial hair in women a sign of a medical condition?
Sometimes. If hair growth is sudden, excessive, or comes with other symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, or weight gain, it’s a good idea to consult your GP to check for underlying hormonal conditions like PCOS.
Is Vaniqa available over the counter?
No – Vaniqa is a prescription-only medication in the UK. You can complete a short online consultation at 123Meds, and if approved by our prescribers, we can dispense and deliver the treatment discreetly.
Are there any side effects to Vaniqa?
Some users may notice mild skin irritation, redness, or acne. These effects are usually temporary. If irritation persists, you should stop using the product and speak to a healthcare professional.
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