What is Vaniqa?
Vaniqa is a prescription topical medication for women that is used to remove unwanted facial hair. It is designed for use with facial hair removal systems and treatments, and is both safe and clinically proven to be effective. It is also the only medication of its kind to be approved by the FDA and is the most recommended medication of this type.
How does Vaniqa work?
The active ingredient in Vaniqa is eflornithine HCl. Eflornithine HCl slows down the growth of unwanted facial and under-chin hair on women. It works by blocking an enzyme that causes hair growth, thereby slowing down growth and causing hair to become finer, as well as lighter. It does not remove hair or cause it to fall out; however, it can allow patients to extend the time between using their regular methods of hair removal.
What areas of the body does Vaniqa treat?
This treatment is only for unwanted facial or under-chin hair. It should not be used on other parts of the body.
What are the advantages of Vaniqa over other similar treatments?
Unlike some other products, Vaniqa works on all skin types. Also, it is the only one of its kind approved by the FDA.
Who is a candidate for Vaniqa?
Any woman who desires to look their best and remove unwanted facial hair is a good candidate.
How is Vaniqa applied?
The first step is to remove hair from the area being treated using your current hair removal method. After that, apply the cream in a thin layer, being careful not to get it into your eyes, mouth or nose. Rub the cream in thoroughly. If you are going to apply make-up wait at least five minutes. This is the same for any sunscreen or moisturizers. Be sure to apply twice a day, waiting at least eight hours between applications. Also, do not wash the area for four hours. If the cream does get into your mouth or nose, rinse thoroughly with water. If it gets into your eyes, flush with water and call your doctor immediately. Vaniqa should be applied for as long as results are wanted. If discontinued, hair will return to its normal growth rate.
Can Vaniqa be used with laser hair removal?
Yes, Vaniqa can be used with laser hair removal, and studies have shown that the combination dramatically improves results. In various clinical studies, it has been shown to be the preferred method of treatment in conjunction with laser hair removal. In one study, it improved hair removal from 68 percent to 94 percent.
What will the results be like?
Most women see results in as little as 4 to 8 weeks. This is when you should start to notice a slowing of hair growth. Also, at this time, the hair may be lighter and finer. Patients can expect to continue to see results as long as they continue to use Vaniqa.
What are the risks?
As with any medical treatment there are some risks. The side effects are mild and usually resolve themselves in a short time. Vaniqa will not damage or scar the skin. Some reactions that may occur are minor and temporary skin irritations such as redness, stinging, burning, tingling or acne. If these do not resolve themselves in a few days talk to your doctor.
Is Vaniqa FDA approved for use in the U.S.?
Yes, Vaniqa is approved by the FDA. In fact, it is the only one of its kind that is.
Is Vaniqa covered by insurance companies?
Although Vaniqa is a prescription medication, like other cosmetic procedures, it is not covered by most health insurance agencies.
Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.
By Dermanetwork.org Staff
Updated: July 7. 2010
