Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism)

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What is Hirsutism?

Hirsutism is a condition where women experience excessive and unwanted hair growth in areas such as the face, neck, chest, tummy, lower back, buttocks, or thighs. The hair tends to be thick and dark, resembling male-pattern hair growth. This condition can be highly embarrassing or distressing to cope with.

Causes:
- Hirsutism is often linked to hormones called androgens. It can occur due to an increase in androgen levels or an increased sensitivity to these hormones.
- The most common cause of hirsutism is a condidtion known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the affects the ovaries and also can lead to other symptoms such as acne and irregular periods.
- Other potential causes may include certain medications, the use of anabolic steroids, and hormonal conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome or acromegaly.
- Sometimes, there may be no obvious cause for hirsutism.

Symptoms:
- Women with hirsutism will notice thick, dark hair in the specified areas.
- Lighter, finer hair that is present on the face or body is generally not considered to be hirsutism and is a normal part of aging.

Treatments and selfcare for Hursutism

If you experience hirsutism, you may need to consider the following:

Weight loss (if you are overweight) this can help to regulate hormone levels.
Home-based hair removal methods may include shaving, waxing, plucking, hair removal creams, or bleaching.
A prescription cream called eflornithine can aid slowing down of facial hair growth.
In some cases taking the contraceptive pill (if premenopausal) can help to control hormones.

If any of these methods don’t suffice then a GP may need to be consulted and a specialist referral made.

Longer-Lasting Hair Removal:

- While home methods are only temporary, there are courses of treatments that can offer longer-lasting results:
  - Electrolysis: Uses electric current to stop hair growth.
  - Laser hair removal/ Intense Pulse Lightthese are both effective but the results are not permanent.

Note that these treatments are usually not available on the NHS and can be costly.

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Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism)

What is Hirsutism?

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