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    Vaniqa

    On this page

    Vaniqa is a prescription-only cream that reduces hair growth from the follicles (hair roots), providing a long-lasting solution to unwanted facial hair.

    Using Vaniqa

    Apply a thin layer of Vaniqa twice a day, at least 8hrs apart (e.g. morning and evening).

    Clean and dry the areas of the skin where you will be applying the cream. Apply a thin layer of cream and rub it in thoroughly until it disappears. If possible, do not wash these areas of skin for 4hrs after application. Wash your hands after application and wait at least 5mins before applying make-up or sun cream to the same area.

    Where to use Vaniqa

    Vaniqa is designed for use on your face. It should not be used on other areas of your body.

    Avoid contact with your eyes, the inside of your nose or your mouth. If you do get Vaniqa in your eyes, mouth or nose, rinse well with water.

    Time it takes to work

    It may take 2-4 months before any difference is seen. Unlike other hair removal creams, which  dissolve existing hair, Vaniqa tackles the problem at the source by reducing new hair growth at the follicle. You should stop using Vaniqa if you see no results after 4 months and contact your doctor

    Side effects

    Side effects are uncommon and usually mild. Sometimes Vaniqa can cause acne, as well as stinging of the skin, tingling, soreness, and redness. It is unusual for treatment to be discontinued because of these side effects.

    For full information about correct use and side effects, see the patient information leaflet.

    More info about Vaniqa

    How it works

    The active ingredient in Vaniqa is eflornithine. This acts on the base of the hair follicle where it reduces new growth by acting on an enzyme involved in hair growth.

    Vaniqa is not a depilatory (hair removal) cream. You can continue your usual hair removal regime while using Vaniqa, if you wish.

    Important information about Vaniqa

    Excessive growth of hair may be a result of underlying conditions. If you notice sudden excess hair, we advise you see your GP. Vaniqa is not suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and should be avoided if you are trying to become pregnant.

    Safety: taking other medicines

    As is true of all medication, Vaniqa can interact with other medicines. This is why it's important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are taking so that we can prescribe Vaniqa safely.

    Alternative treatments

    Alternative hair removal techniques include shaving, waxing, epilation, electrolysis, laser treatment or bleaching. Weight loss can reduce facial hair in obese women. For some women who haven’t yet reached menopause, the contraceptive pill can be effective in managing excess hair. If you think this could be the right option for you, you should discuss it with your doctor.

    Find the right facial hair removal treatment for you
    View treatment

    How our service works

    1. Complete our simple, confidential online consultation

      5 mins

    2. One of our clinicians confirms your suitability and notifies you by email

      About 30 mins (Mon-Sun 9am-5pm)

    3. Choose delivery or collection

      Next day delivery

      Collect in your local ParcelShop​​​​​​​

    What our patients say

    Meet our clinical team

    Based in our London office, our doctors and independent pharmacists have years of experience caring for patients in NHS hospitals, GP surgeries or in community pharmacies. Any one of the team may provide you with advice, your prescription or aftercare via private message.

    Meet the whole team
    • Dr Kieran Seyan  - Meet the clinical team at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor

      Dr Kieran Seyan

      GMC: 6104204

    • Dr Gigi Taguri  - Meet the clinical team at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor

      Dr Gigi Taguri

      GMC: 6129350

    • Dr Mitra Dutt- Meet the clinical team at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor

      Dr Mitra Dutt

      GMC: 6077868

    • Dr Neel Patel

      Dr Neel Patel

      GMC: 7085151

    Meet the whole team

    Delivery & collection information

    • Standard delivery

      Free

      Delivered within 2-3 working days.

    • Next-day delivery

      £4.95

      Orders approved before 5pm Monday-Friday will arrive within 1-2 working days. Orders approved between 5pm Friday and 12pm Sunday will usually arrive on Monday or Tuesday.

    • Standard ParcelShop collection

      Free

      Collect from 7000+ convenient ParcelShops in 2-3 working days.

    • Next day ParcelShop collection

      £2.95

      Collect next day from 7000+ convenient ParcelShop locations, if approved before 5pm Monday-Friday. Saturday and Sunday orders, collect Monday if approved before 12pm Sunday or Tuesday if ordered after 12pm. 

    • London same-day collection

      Free

      Order before 5pm Monday-Friday to collect in pharmacy the same day. Subject to the availability of your treatment in your selected London pharmacy.

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