Combination of intense pulse light and topical eflornithine therapy versus intense pulse light alone in the treatment of idiopathic facial hirsutism: a randomised controlled trial
Idiopathic facial hirsutism
Participants were randomised using computer-generated block randomisation with a block size of 8 and a 1:1 allocation ratio. Allocation concealment was achieved using sequentially numbered opaque sealed envelopes. Intervention Arm (Group A): Participants receive six sessions of intense pulse light (IPL) therapy at 4-week intervals using a quartz-filtered xenon lamp platform (640 nm cut-off filter). In addition, they apply topical eflornithine hydrochloride 13.9% cream (Vaniqa™) to the affected facial area twice daily for 24 weeks. Control Arm (Group B): Participants receive the same six-session IPL therapy protocol at 4-week intervals, but do not use any additional topical treatment.
1. Women aged 18–70 years 2. Visible terminal facial hair graded moderate or severe on a validated mFG scale 3. Willing to use broad-spectrum sunscreen
1. Pregnancy or lactation 2. Endocrine disorders (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS], thyroid disease) 3. Use of hormonal or anti-androgen therapy within 6 months 4. History of light-triggered seizures, keloids, or active facial dermatoses 5. Fitzpatrick skin type VI 6. Prior adverse reaction to eflornithine or IPL