Vaniqa Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, Vaniqa is a brand name for the drug eflornithine. It is a cream that is used to slow the growth of unwanted facial hair. It is usually applied around the lips and under the chin. Its effectiveness is caused by slowing or blocking the action of enzymes that are needed for hair to grow. This action takes place in the hair follicles. Although Vaniqa slows the growth of facial hair, it does not stop it.
Common Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic lists stinging and acne as side effects that occur more commonly than other potential side effects.
Other Side Effects
Other side effects that occur less commonly as a result from using Vaniqa include rash, hair bumps, chronic acne and skin that tingles, turns red, burns, becomes numb or bleeds. The condition of having hair bumps is called folliculitis. Also, lips can redden or become chapped as a result of using Vaniqa.
Serious Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine lists severe irritation of the skin as an uncommon but potentially serious side effect of using Vaniqa. If severe irritation occurs, medical attention should be sought immediately.
References
About this Author
Doug Hewitt has been writing for 20 years and has a Master of Arts from UNC-Greensboro. He and his wife, Robin, are co-authors of books designed to help students, including the Free College Resource Book, Microsoft Word 2007 for Beginners, and the upcoming Learning New Techniques with Word 2010.
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