When this enzyme is blocked by the medication, metabolic activity in the hair follicle decreases, and hairs grow in more slowly. It is rubbed onto the affected areas on the face twice daily. Improvement often was seen in as few as 4-8 wk. After discontinuing treatment, facial hair growth was similar to pretreatment levels within 8 wk. In animals, irreversibly inhibits the enzyme OCD, thus inhibiting cell division and synthetic functions, retarding rate of hair growth.
Clinical studies show it retards hair growth in humans.
Contraindications Documented hypersensitivity Interactions None reported Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established. Since this topic is beyond the scope of this article, please refer to Laser Hair Removal Methods for more information. Multiple treatment sessions are required to achieve a clinically significant result. During the procedure, the patient holds a metal rod covered with conductive cream or gel or a metal plate attached to a moistened pad. Galvanic electrolysis is slow and may require a minute or more for each hair, including repeated insertions into the follicle.