Does Vaniqa Cream Work?

Vaniqa (eflornithine hydrochloride) is a topical treatment for unwanted facial hair in women. While it doesn’t remove hair outright, it slows regrowth when used alongside shaving, plucking, or waxing.

Effectiveness

• 27% of users had noticeable hair reduction by 24 weeks, versus 8% with placebo
• 5% achieved clear or almost clear skin in treated areas

How to Use Vaniqa

1. Apply twice daily, at least 8 hours apart
2. Remove hair by shaving, plucking, or waxing ≥ 5 minutes before application
3. Wash and dry the area, then rub in a thin layer of cream until it disappears
4. Do not wash treated areas for 4 hours
5. Wait 5 minutes after drying before applying cosmetics or sunscreen
6. If irritation occurs, reduce to once daily or stop and consult your provider

Mechanism of Action

Eflornithine blocks the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase within hair follicles, slowing the hair growth cycle.

Side Effects

• Stinging, burning, tingling
• Acne or rash
• Itching or dryness
• Headache
• Rare allergic reactions in sensitive individuals

Common Causes of Hirsutism

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Hormonal imbalances (androgen excess)
• Certain medications or tumors
• Genetic predisposition

Other Hair‑Reduction Options

• Bleaching to make hair less visible
• Shaving, waxing, plucking (regular maintenance needed)
• Laser hair removal (multiple sessions over months)
• Electrolysis for individual follicles (time‑intensive)

Additional FAQs

• Men: Not approved for use in men; safety and efficacy are unknown
• Over‐the‐counter: Vaniqa is prescription‐only

Sources

Vaniqa (eflornithine hydrochloride) Cream, 13.9%. Bristol‑Myers Squibb. Last updated 7/2000. Accessed June 2, 2025.

Excessive hair growth (hirsutism). NHS. Accessed June 2, 2025.