Unwanted facial hair treatment, a prescription solution that works differently

What causes unwanted facial hair in women?

A small amount of facial hair is completely normal for women. When it becomes noticeably coarser or more extensive — particularly on the upper lip, chin, cheeks or neck — the medical term is hirsutism. The most common cause is an increase in androgen hormones (sometimes called male hormones), which every woman has in small amounts. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most frequent underlying reason, but hormonal shifts around the menopause, certain medicines, and less common hormonal conditions can all play a part. For some women no specific cause is found.

How much hair is considered excessive, and how much it matters, is entirely personal. If it is bothering you, it is worth addressing.

How is unwanted facial hair treated?

Physical methods — shaving, threading, waxing, laser, and electrolysis — remove or damage existing hairs. A prescription cream works differently: applied to affected areas of the face and neck, it slows the enzyme that causes hair follicles to grow quickly. Over time, with continued twice-daily use, regrowth becomes finer and easier to manage alongside your preferred removal method. Results typically become noticeable after eight weeks of regular use.

We do not publish the name of the medicine or its price on this page, in keeping with our approach to prescription treatments. The prescriber confirms the right treatment for you inside the consultation, based on your health and circumstances.

How the online consultation works for unwanted facial hair

The consultation is brief. You will describe where the hair appears, whether it has been investigated before, and confirm a few health points — particularly whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding. A UK prescriber reviews your answers. If treatment is appropriate, the prescription is dispensed by our pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your door.

Treating unwanted facial hair with NewGen

NewGen Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered NHS community pharmacy running a clinician-reviewed online service. Whether you have already explored other options or this is your first step, the consultation gives you access to a prescription treatment that physical methods alone cannot match — all reviewed by a real UK prescriber, dispensed by a real UK pharmacy.

When to see your GP first

See your GP before using this service if your facial hair has appeared or increased rapidly, if you also have irregular periods, acne, or weight gain (possible PCOS), or if you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding. Treating an underlying hormonal cause often reduces facial hair more effectively than a topical treatment alone. If the prescriber has any concerns, they will direct you to the right care.