Besides shaving, waxing or using a depilatory, which all provide only short-term results, there's really only a few ways you can actually stop facial hair growth. Any of the longer-lasting methods of hair removal requires the help of a medical professional, so you'll need to talk to a doctor, dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to stop facial hair growth.
Step 1
Get a prescription for eflornithine. Eflornithine is a topical cream that you apply directly to the skin to retard the growth of hair. According to the Mayo Clinic, it inhibits certain enzymes responsible for hair growth, so hair doesn't grow at its normal rate. It's available only by prescription under the brand name Vaniqa.
Step 2
Try laser hair removal. Laser hair removal damages hair follicles, essentially causing them to go dormant, or into a "resting" phase. This can slow the growth process exponentially. After anywhere between six to eight treatments, you can experience upwards of 12 months without facial hair growth. Yearly sessions are often necessary to maintain the hair-free skin on the face.
Step 3
Consider removing facial hair with electrolysis. Of all the methods of facial hair removal, this is by far the most permanent. In this procedure, a thin needle is inserted into the follicles of the unwanted hair. A pulse of electricity is sent through the needle, damaging the follicle so that it can no longer grow hair. The only drawback with this procedure is that each hair must be treated to provide the expected results.
Tips and Warnings
- Eflornithine still requires you remove any unwanted hair from your face. After shaving, waxing or using a depilatory, you simply apply the product to the skin. Allow the area to dry before using any other products on your face, including moisturizers and sunscreens.
- Not everyone responds to eflornithine, and it may cause skin irritation in some people. This topical medication has also been known to cause acne and a stinging sensation upon application. Avoid using herbal forms of eflornithine. As of 2009, this is the only hair growth retardant approved to impede facial hair growth. All other products haven't been proven effectual.
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