Vaniqa

What Is Vaniqa 11.5% Cream Used For?

Vaniqa is a topical cream that is used to eliminate unwanted body hair.

Unlike other hair removal creams, like Veet or Nair, Vaniqa works deeper within the skin to slow down the growth of hair to make it more easy 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.

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Hirsutism Treatments

Hirsutism is a condition that causes excessive hair growth on areas of the body which are typically lacking or completely devoid of hair, such as the chin, chest, face or abdomen.

If the condition is caused by an underlying illness, the treatment would need to be targeted at the source of the problem.

There are a number of things you can do to remove and manage unwanted hair.

Shaving - Shaving is an appropriate and popular 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 to remove hair would be waxing. 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 - These are 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, including electrolysis, laser hair removal and intense pulsed light therapy, can be performed by specialist clinicians. These can be both costly and time-consuming.

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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) have 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 the growth of hair to make it more manageable. The cream can be used in conjunction with other hair removal methods such as shaving or plucking.

It can take up to 8 weeks before you start to see results, during which you must continue using the cream. If you do not notice an improvement after 4 months, contact your doctor.

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How to use Vaniqa Cream

Vaniqa should be used twice daily, allowing 8 hours to elapse between doses.

Always follow the doctors' instructions.

Wait 5 minutes after using another hair removal method, such as shaving, before applying Vaniqa cream.

1. Clean and dry the area of application.
2. Apply a thin layer of Vaniqa and rub thoroughly into the affected area.
3. Wash your hands after applying the cream.

Do not wash the area of application for up to 4 hours.

If you apply too much Vaniqa, simply wipe away the excess with a tissue.

Avoid the cream coming into contact with your eyes, the inside of your nose or 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.

Wait 5 minutes after applying Vaniqa before applying make-up, sunscreen or other skin products to the affected area.

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Side effects and cautions of Vaniqa

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 side effects may include:

• Acne
• Dry skin
• Hair loss
• Inflammation around the hair shaft
• Itching
• Rash
• Redness
• Skin irritation
• Stinging, tingling or burning sensations

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. For more information regarding the safety of this medicine, consult the patient information leaflet enclosed with your treatment.

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

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

Always read the enclosed patient information leaflet before you start using Vaniqa.

Do not use Vaniqa passed the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Never throw away medicine via household or water waste. Take any unwanted or expired medicine to your pharmacy and ask them to dispose of it safely on your behalf.

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Frequently asked questions about Vaniqa

What's the difference between hirsutism and hypertrichosis?

Hirsutism is the growth of hair (typically in women) that follows a male pattern. This means an increase of hair is seen on certain areas of the body, such as on the face or chest of a female.

Hypertrichosis is the growth of general hair. Unlike hirsutism, it is noticeable in both sexes and causes an increase of hair on all parts of the body.

Should I be concerned about the hair on my face?

Many women experience having facial hair, and it is usually nothing to worry about. Hair removal is usually undertaken for vanity and to conform to the expected norm of society.

However, excessive hair growth on the face can be caused by an underlying health condition. If you are concerned, we encourage you to speak to your GP about your condition and possible treatment.

Can I stop shaving or waxing when using Vaniqa?

Vaniqa is not a replacement for shaving or waxing, but can reduce the rate of unwanted hair growth.

How long will it take for me to start seeing results?

In studies, results of treatment using Vaniqa were noticeable after 8 weeks (2 months).

What happens if I stop using Vaniqa?

If you stop using Vaniqa, you can expect your hair growth to return to the rate before treatment. This can happen as soon as 8 weeks after stopping treatment.

Where can I buy Vaniqa Cream online?

To order Vaniqa today, simply complete our online questionnaire by clicking the green button at the top of the page.

Are qualified doctors are on hand to answer any questions you may have about your condition or treatment.

Our UK GPhC registered pharmacy will dispense your medication in discreet packaging for next day delivery.

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Table of contents

What Is Vaniqa 11.5% Cream Used For?

Treatments for hirsutism

How does Vaniqa work?

How to use Vaniqa

Side effects

Frequently asked questions