Eflornithine
Vaniqa is the only eflornithine product on this shelf: a 13.9% cream in a 15g tube for slowing the growth of unwanted facial hair in women with hirsutism.
Key points
- Eflornithine cream slows the rate at which new hair grows; it does not remove hair that is already there, so it works alongside shaving or other hair-removal methods.
- Vaniqa is the brand-name product from Allergan, and the 13.9% strength in a 15g tube is the only presentation listed here.
- It is a Skin Care treatment applied topically to the upper face and chin, not a systemic medicine.
How eflornithine cream works
Eflornithine blocks an enzyme called ornithine decarboxylase, which hair follicles need to produce new hair. With that enzyme inhibited, the follicle slows down and less hair grows in the treated area. The effect builds over several weeks of consistent use and fades if you stop. This is the mechanism of the topical cream; the injectable form of eflornithine is a different medicine used for sleeping sickness and is not what Vaniqa contains.
Further reading
What is eflornithine used for?
Eflornithine is used to slow the growth of unwanted facial hair in women with hirsutism. It does not remove hair that is already there, so it works alongside shaving or other hair-removal methods.
How does eflornithine work?
Eflornithine blocks an enzyme called ornithine decarboxylase, which hair follicles need to produce new hair. With that enzyme inhibited, the follicle slows down and less hair grows in the treated area.
How long does eflornithine take to work?
The effect builds over several weeks of consistent use and fades if you stop. Eflornithine usually takes 4 to 8 weeks to show its full effect.
What are the side effects of eflornithine?
Common side effects include local skin redness, burning and stinging. Dry skin, itching (pruritus) and folliculitis can also occur. Severe localised contact dermatitis requires immediate medical attention, so speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you notice a severe skin reaction.
Who should not use eflornithine?
People with a hypersensitivity to eflornithine should not use it.
What eflornithine products are available?
On Direct Meds, eflornithine comes as Vaniqa. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
What does eflornithine cost in rand?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars.
Payment and prices →Do I need a prescription for eflornithine in South Africa?
No, not online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order eflornithine. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy eflornithine online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →Related articles
22 Sept 2026 ⋅ 4 min read
Vaniqa for facial hair: what eflornithine can do
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