Unwanted facial hair growth is a relatively common problem among women, and it can have a profound impact on one’s quality of life. Eflora cream (Eflornithine) 13.9% is a therapeutic option for the reduction of unwanted facial hair in females. Let’s discover Eflora cream composition, precautions and more.
What is Eflora cream, or what is Eflornithine hydrochloride?
Eflora cream is a topical medicine applied to the skin for reducing unwanted hair growth in women. It contains the active ingredient Eflornithine hydrochloride, which interferes with an enzyme found in the hair follicles of the skin required for hair growth. This causes slower hair growth and improved appearance where the topical medication is applied. It is an FDA-approved pharmaceutical agent that inhibits ornithine decarboxylase to reduce the growth of unwanted facial hair in females.
How does Eflora cream work?
Eflora cream does not permanently remove hair or cure the problem. The treatment is not a depilatory. Your hair removal treatment should include continuation of any hair removal procedure that you are currently using. Eflora cream will help you manage your condition and improve your appearance. Eflornithine does not have the potential to remove the excess hair growth. The volume of hair is reduced, making it appear thinner and less noticeable. The frequency of hair removal using other methods is reduced by Eflora cream, and it can be used as an adjunct to other hair removal procedures (tweezing, shaving, waxing, etc). The product is primarily indicated for the removal of facial hair, but it may also be effective in other body parts. However, using this topical formulation in other body areas may increase the blood levels of the medication and thus increase the risk of side effects. Hence, Eflora cream should only be used on the facial skin and the surrounding areas under the chin.
Is Eflora cream effective?
Well, you need to be patient, as the improvement in the condition occurs gradually. Do not lose hope if you are unable to see any improvement. In most cases, improvement may be seen as early as 4 to 8 weeks of regular application. Improvement may take longer in some people. If someone is unable to see improvement after six months of regular usage, discontinuation of the medication is considered. Research studies show that in about 8 weeks after treatment discontinuation, the hair will return to the same condition as it was before beginning treatment. You may apply your normal cosmetics or sunscreen after applying Eflornithine cream. Still, you should wait for a few minutes to allow the topical formulation to be absorbed completely into the skin before applying it. If the condition gets worse, consider discontinuing the treatment and contact your healthcare professional.
What to look for before using Eflora cream?
In deciding to use a pharmaceutical agent, the risk of taking the medicine must be weighed against its beneficial effects. Your healthcare specialist will determine whether you are a suitable candidate for Eflora cream. To achieve optimal results with Eflornithine, the following should be considered:
-
- Allergic reactions – Let your doctor know if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this topical medication or any other medication. Also, let them know if you have a history of any allergies, including dyes, foods, animals, or preservatives.
- Pediatric – You should not use Eflora cream if you are less than twelve years old.
- Geriatric – Eflora cream has been clinically tested and has not been shown to cause different side effects or issues in older adults than it does in younger adults.
- Drug interactions – Certain medicines should not be used in combination at all. In other cases, two different medicines may be combined even if there are chances of drug interaction. In these cases, your healthcare provider may want to change the dose or take other precautions that may be required. Let your doctor know if you are using any other prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter) medication.
- Other interactions – Certain medications should not be used at or around the time of eating food or consuming specific food items, as interactions may occur. Tobacco or alcohol consumption with certain medicines may also cause negative interactions. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your Eflornithine with food, tobacco or alcohol.
How to use Eflora cream?
It is best to use topical Eflornithine under the supervision of a doctor. Read the prescription provided by your healthcare professional and carefully follow the directions. If you have any doubts about the usage, be sure to ask your healthcare provider. Eflora cream is usually applied on the face and nearby areas, such as under the chin. Avoid getting this topical medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Also, avoid applying to open wounds. If the medication gets into the eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and contact your healthcare professional. Even when using this topical formulation, you need to continue your normal hair removal procedures, and the topical medicine should be applied after a gap of at least five minutes after the unwanted hair has been removed. Make sure you wait for the medication to dry before applying any cosmetics or sunscreen. Avoid washing the treated skin areas for at least four hours after applying the medicine for unwanted facial hair growth.
The dose of Eflornithine will be different for different patients. For correct usage, follow your doctor’s prescription. The application regimen given here may be different from that which is prescribed to you. You should not make any changes to the regimen unless your healthcare professional tells you to do so. For the reduced rate of unwanted facial hair growth in females in adults and children 12 years of age and older, coat the affected facial areas of the skin and nearby areas under the chin with Eflora cream twice daily, with the second application coming at least eight hours after the first application.
If you miss the first application, apply the medicine as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next application, forget the missed dose and follow the regular dosing schedule.
What are the possible side effects?
Some side effects may develop that usually do not require medical attention. These side effects may resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. Also, your healthcare provider may be able to tell you about effective methods to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Commonly reported side effects are acne and stinging skin. Other adverse effects not listed in this information guide may occur in some patients. If you develop any other side effects, check with your healthcare specialist.
Conclusion
Eflora cream thus provides an effective means of reducing unwanted facial hair growth in women when used in combination with other hair removal techniques. The hair reduction treatment contributes to a great extent in reducing anxiety attacks related to the growth of unwanted facial hair in women. Due to its safety profile, tolerability, and ease of use, Eflora cream will go a long way in managing female hirsutism. To know more about Eflora benefits, please get in touch with a healthcare professional.
