Does Eflornithine cream work?

A lot of women worldwide face growth of facial hair. Hence, women try different options to remove unwanted facial hair by using solutions like waxing, chemicals, plucking, etc. Some women opt for laser treatment, medicines, or electrolysis to get rid of this problem permanently. Well, some of the above treatment options have disadvantages also like either they are costly or lead to skin irritation.

^{Causes of Hirsutism or Facial Hair Growth in Women}

• Production of male hormones
• PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)
• Postmenopause
• Medications and other conditions

Well, excessive facial hair growth in women can be slowed down with some topical treatments Eflornithine cream which helps slow down the hair growth with proper use.

Does Eflornithine cream work?

Yes. Eflora cream works to reduce hair growth, but it will not remove/prevent facial hair growth permanently. Remember, this cream will reduce hair growth but will not prevent the growth of hair permanently.

It means you need to continue using other methods for hair removal that you have been using along with this cream like cutting, plucking, shaving, etc.

When to consult a doctor if using Eflornithine cream?

You should consult a doctor if:-

• Worried about the medications you are taking currently resulting in the growth of unwanted facial hair?
• The hair growth is fast.
• You have acne, a male voice, hair thinning pattern like males, reduced breast size, and increased clitoris size.

If your medical expert prescribes Eflornithine cream, you should know the correct way of using this cream.

How to use Eflornithine cream?

You can apply this cream to your skin. Apply it twice a day. You can fix a time every day for the application so that you do not forget to apply it. You should wait for a minimum of 8 hours between two applications of this cream.

Your doctor/pharmacist will explain to you the correct way of applying it. You can follow the same directions and if not understood, ask your medical expert again.

The exact dose of this cream should be used – not more and not less. Also, apply the cream for the duration suggested by the doctor.

1. Wash & dry the affected skin surface
2. Use a thin film of the cream and apply it to the affected skin. Rub it gently until it gets absorbed into your skin.
3. Do not let this cream enter your vagina, mouth, or eyes.
4. Wait for a minimum of 4 hours after application of this cream and then wash the area where you applied the cream.
5. Wait for five minutes after using the existing hair removal method before using this cream.

You can use sunscreen or cosmetics after the application of this cream dries up. If you apply Eflora cream to broken skin, you may experience temporary burning or stinging sensation.

How long it takes to see the full effects of this cream?

It can take 4 weeks or maybe longer before the full effects of this cream are visible. Continue applying this cream for the duration suggested by the medical expert. If you stop using this cream, hair growth will resume as normal. You may see visible results within six months of starting treatment with this cream. If there is no improvement, the doctor will ask you to stop using this cream.

What should I discuss with my medical expert before using this cream?

Your medical expert should know if you are suffering from any of the health conditions below

• allergic reaction to this cream, dyes, foods, preservatives, or other medicines.
• breast-feeding
• pregnant/ planning pregnancy

Are there any interactions linked to this cream?

There are no interactions linked to this cream. Avoid using other skincare products on the affected skin surface without discussing it with your skin doctor. You need to share all details with a medical expert about the medicines you are taking. Also, tell him about herbs, OTC, and dietary supplements you are using. If you drink alcohol, smoke, or use illegal drugs, do not hesitate to inform your healthcare provider. This will help the healthcare provider figure out the possible interactions.

Side effects of Eflora (Eflornithine) cream – Are there any?

While using Eflora cream, you may expect a few side effects which if turn severe you can seek help from a medical expert.  Here are the side effects

• Skin rash
• Hives
• Itching
• Swollen tongue, face, and lips

Side effects that need NO medical attention

• redness
• hair bumps
• stinging or burning

These side effects are mild and subside faster, still, if they bother you, consult your medical expert.

FAQs

How long do the effects of this cream last?

This cream work till the time you use it. It stops working after a few weeks after you stop using it. It may take nearly 24 weeks to show its full effects.

Will this cream help me remove hair?

It is a skin cream that helps reduce unwanted facial hair growth in women.

Will this cream permanently eradicate facial hair?

No. Eflora cream will not help remove the facial hair permanently or stop hair growth completely. It can just slow down facial hair growth. So, continue using other hair-removing procedures you are using. While using this cream, you may not use the existing methods of hair removal often.

Can this cream lead to a stinging and burning sensation?

Only 4% of people using this cream report stinging and burning sensations on their faces during trials. You may experience a stinging or burning sensation for a temporary period if you apply this cream to broken skin.

Can I apply this cream on other body parts other than the face?

No. This cream is approved for use on the face and under the chin areas only where unwanted hair growth is seen.

Is it okay to use makeup or sunscreen while using Eflornithine cream (Eflora cream)?

Yes. You can use makeup/sunscreen after applying this cream and once the cream dries up completely within a few minutes. If you are using other OTC or prescription medicines on your face, discuss this with your medical expert before you start using this cream.

What are the signs of Hirsutism?

This condition results in the growth of dark, coarse, and thick hair on body parts where it should grow as thin or fine hair. For instance, you may see thicker hair growth on the chest, face, back, upper arms, lower legs, and lower abdomen.

Can I prevent developing Hirsutism?

Well, it depends on the cause, for example, if you are suffering from PCOS, you can eat well, lose weight, and exercise regularly to reduce the risk. If you using medicines that can result in hirsutism, speak to your medical expert to understand how to lower the risk.

Summary

It can be challenging for women with facial hair growth. Most women with hormonal imbalances benefit from the treatment, but hair growth can resume if the hormone levels are not balanced. Based on the root cause of your condition and the treatment you choose, facial hair growth may/may not continue for life long.

Some permanent hair removals treatments like electrolysis and laser hair removal can stop facial hair growth permanently. If PCOS/ adrenal gland disorders are causing this condition, you may need treatment for a lifetime. With the correct treatment and acceptance, you can live a happy life.