unwanted facial hair

[Early Bird]

Whew! This is an unhappy topic.

Got a prescription from my doctor last night -- Vaniqa. Supposed to be good stuff for reducing facial hair.

But ...

1. not covered by insurance
(and, BTW, why should VIAGRA be covered, but not VANIQA? I think the self-esteem issues from a female's budding mustache are more devistating than an aging man's erectile disfunction!)

2. Looks like around $60-$80 per tube. And 1 tube is a 1-month supply.

3. Called to ask about laser hair removal. They said I should expect to pay more than $800/year -- and it usually takes several years of treatments.

YIKES!

What do you do about unwanted facial hair?

And ... can anyone recommend a good discount pharmacy?

[PrairieRose]

I have really fine, soft hair that looks only slightly thicker than normal facial hair....I use Sally Hanson's facial hair remover about once a month. It's like nair for your face...works like a charm and is cheap.

[Daphne]

I have used Sally Hanson's and it's worked great for me. They also have an over the counter lotion or moisturizer type product that you put on that helps to reduce facial hair. I think a couple of companies like Biore (?) and Oil of Olay have this out and you can get it at Walmart or Target. Sorry I can't remember the name but I know it's out there and I've heard great things about it - nothing negative so far. I would try that route before purchasing the prescription. Let us know what you decide.

[bamamomto4]

I've heard about Vaniqa ( I have PCOS and one of the side effects is facial hair) and was gonna ask my Dr for a prescription next time I go in.
I wondered if Ins covered it.

I've tried over the counter lotions and they dont work well for me. I've also had the Laser done...epil light or something like that.Cost me around $1,000 and didn't work.Can't even tell I had anything done

You can look online and see if its any cheaper. Let us know if you get it filled and how it works...I'd really like to know

[Early Bird]

So far, the best price I've found is at www.drugstore.com -- looks to be just under $50/month.

Isn't it true that brand names are only licensed for 7 years? Looks like Vaniqa hit the market Jul '00. So in 2 years, 1 month, and 6 days, I'll bet there'll be generic versions out.

[bamamomto4]

I'm not sure about the generics.I wonder if your Dr would know..? Or the pharmacy?

I wanted to call my Dr today and ask for a prescription,but figured they'd tell me I had to come in for my yearly first lol

Thats expensive stuff.... it'd better be worth it.

[Jayne]

I have been using a brand called Surgi-cream for years...I get it in walmart or you can usually find it at any drug store...a tube lasts quite awhile...also after I use it I always put antibiotic ointment on the area

[rebecca]

Ipluck mine. Much cheaper