Hirsutism

Hirsutism

What Is It?

Hirsutism is excessive hair growth. It can occur in both men and women but is most often is seen in women. In women, increased hair growth is typically distributed on the body in a male pattern such as a facial moustache or beard, chest, abdomen, back and thighs. It is darker and thicker than the baby fine hair that women typically find on their body. Troublesome areas for men are usually the back, ears and chest.

What Causes It?

Heredity is the most common cause of hirsutism. Some family members that are genetically predisposed will have more than average amounts of hair while others tend to have less. Ethnic background, age, metabolism and weight can all influence hair growth. Normal hair growth varies significantly among different ethnic groups. In some cultures, women generally have more body hair than women of Native American or Asian ancestry.

Hirsutism is usually first noted during the teenage years and gradually becomes more severe over the course of one's lifetime. As the body ages and goes through changes, excessive amounts of hair growth can be stimulated. Common symptoms associated with this condition are signs of masculinization, such as deepening of the voice, increased muscle mass, decreased breast size and menstrual irregularities.

Several medical factors may contribute to hirsutism such as hormonal imbalances. Hair follicles that are overly sensitive to the male hormones, called androgens, or abnormally high levels of testosterone can contribute to excessive hair growth in women.

Some medications can be associated with hirsutism such as postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy that contains testosterone. Danazol, a drug used to treat endometriosis, may also stimulate excessive hair growth. Other medical factors include endocrine abnormalities, ovarian lesions, adrenal disorders and use of androgenic steroids.

What Can Be Done?

Hirsutism can usually be controlled but not cured. Blood tests may be required to determine the underlying cause. There are many medical and cosmetic treatment options available for hirsutism. If hirsutism is due to hormonal imbalances, it may be treated with oral contraceptives that contain estrogen which help to decrease hair growth. Should this condition be related to ovarian cysts, one should consult with a doctor about possible surgical removal. For menopause, one may be prescribed estrogen replacement therapy.

Cosmetic treatments are also helpful in controlling excessive hair growth. There are many methods for hair removal available at Gold Skin Care Center. Electrolysis procedures and waxing are available and to remove the unwanted hair.

In addition to traditional treatments, the EpiLight™ Hair Removal System can offer an alternative treatment for unwanted hair. The EpiLight™ Hair Removal System produces an intense light source that targets the pigment in hair follicles. The pulsed light source quickly delivers energy to the roots of the hair follicle disabling active hair growth.

Research performed at Gold Skin Care Center was instrumental in the manufacturers of EpiLight™ receiving clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market EpiLight™ Hair Removal System as permanent hair reduction device. Gold Skin Care Center has treated thousands of patients with EpiLight™ technology. Other lasers and light sources, many or which were studied here, are also available and may be used when appropriate.

Vaniqa, a topical cream used on facial areas is also available. It is a great addition to help retard facial hair growth between treatment sessions.

Learn more about Laser/IPL hair removal.

Visit Spa Services Waxing to learn about hair removal options available at our Spa.