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Can Any Face Creams Stop Hair Growth on the Face?
Facial hair is a natural occurrence, but for some people, especially women, it can become excessive and bothersome. Hirsutism is a condition in which women experience male facial hair growth, which may result from a hormonal imbalance 3. Certain creams contain ingredients designed to inhibit the growth of hair on your face. Talk to your doctor if you are worried about your facial hair and ask him which creams are right for you.
Function
Face creams designed to stop the growth of hair on your face primarily do just that. Their active ingredients slow down the enzymes in your body that make your hair grow, and they also make it finer and sparser when it does come in. However, these creams do not get rid of existing facial hair, and they can take as long as two months to start working.
Types
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Some hair-inhibiting face creams are available over-the-counter, such as facial moisturizers that contain soy. There is also a product called Vaniqa, generically known as eflornithine, which can be prescribed to you by a health care provider. This cream will be stronger than a non-prescription option. Ask your doctor about it, and let him know about any allergies you have or other medications you are on, since these might react with the cream.
- Some hair-inhibiting face creams are available over-the-counter, such as facial moisturizers that contain soy.
- There is also a product called Vaniqa, generically known as eflornithine, which can be prescribed to you by a health care provider.
Application
Twice a day, wash your face with lukewarm water and a mild face wash, and dry it thoroughly. Apply a small amount of the cream to any areas where you experience facial hair, and do not get it in your eyes, nose or mouth. Wash your hands thoroughly after putting on the cream, and allow it to absorb before you apply any moisturizers or other cosmetic products. Follow the package instructions and those given to you by your physician carefully. The number of times you apply the cream each day and the strength of your dosage will depend on the severity of your facial hair and other health factors your doctor may take into account.
- Twice a day, wash your face with lukewarm water and a mild face wash, and dry it thoroughly.
- Apply a small amount of the cream to any areas where you experience facial hair, and do not get it in your eyes, nose or mouth.
Considerations
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Face creams designed to inhibit hair growth will not help you with the hair you already have, and you will need to continue your normal hair removal methods while waiting for them to take effect. Use tweezers for small areas of facial hair, or apply a depilatory cream to take care of larger patches. However, take caution when using depilatories, as some people are allergic to them. Do not use them on irritated or broken skin, and see your doctor if you break out in a rash or develop any other kind of adverse reaction.
- Face creams designed to inhibit hair growth will not help you with the hair you already have, and you will need to continue your normal hair removal methods while waiting for them to take effect.
Related Articles
References
- MayoClinic.com: Hirsutism
- MayoClinic.com: Eflornithine (Topical Route)
- DermNet NZ: Hirsutism
- Cosmopolitan: Facial Hair Post-Shave
- TeensHealth from Nemours. Hair removal. Updated August 2016.
- National Organization for Rare Disorders. Trichotillomania.
- NIH MedlinePlus. Depilatory poisoning. Updated April 9. 2020.
- Michigan Medicine. Electrolysis for removing hair. Updated October 30, 2019.
- American Academy of Dermatology. Laser hair removal: FAQs.
- USFDA. Vaniqa™. Updated July 27, 2000.
- Hamzavi I, Tan E, Shapiro J, Lui H. A randomized bilateral vehicle-controlled study of eflornithine cream combined with laser treatment versus laser treatment alone for facial hirsutism in women. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2007;57(1):54-9. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2006.09.025
- Hamzavi, I., Tan, E., Shapiro, J., Lui, H. (2007). A randomized bilateral vehicle-controlled study of eflornithine cream combined with laser treatment versus laser treatment alone for facial hirsutism in women. J Am Acad Dermatol, Jul, 57, 1, 54-9.
- Wanitphakdeedecha, R., Alster, T.S. (2008). Physical means of treating unwanted hair. Dermatol Ther, Sep-Oct, 21, 5, 392-401.
Writer Bio
Lynne Sheldon has over 12 years of dance experience, both in studios and performance groups. She is an avid runner and has studied several types of yoga. Sheldon now works as a freelance writer, editor and book reviewer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and art history from Boston University and recently completed her Master of Fine Arts in writing from Pacific University.