What Is Hirsutism?

Hirsutism is a condition that results in excessive hair growth on the body or face. This condition has been noted in both males and females.  It is, however, much more common in females. Those women who suffer from hirsutism generally exhibit thick and dark hair on their chest, face, back and  stomach.

Do we know the causes of hirsutism?   Actually the causes are excessive levels of male hormones (androgens) or hair follicles over reacting to the normal amounts of male hormones that naturally occur in women.  Other indicators of excessive male hormones include deepness of voice, irregular menstruation, acne, and increased muscle mass.

The symptoms of hirsutism can be caused temporarily by taking certain medications.  Known problem medications include birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, and anabolic steroids.  The good news is that the symptoms generally disappear when you stop taking the medications.

Also, heredity may play a role in hirsutism.  Its symptoms have been observed in multiple generations of females leading researchers to believe that there may be a strong correlation within families.  

Hirsutism Treatments

Obesity is a major culprit in the release of excessive male hormones in women. If you are overweight, a doctor can help with a weight loss regimen.  As you start to lose weight, your hormone levels will usually drop. Shaving the affected areas is also a solution, but those areas must be shaved regularly if you want to avoid the appearance of 'stubble'.

Hair removal creams are another good solution.  Bleaching products are also popular as they lighten the hair and make it hardly invisible. The key with any topical treatment is to test a small area of skin to see if you experience a reaction.  

A mistake some women make is to pluck or wax the affected areas -- this can actually stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow which is the exact opposite of what you want.

Electrolysis, which works by killing the hair follicle with a small charge of electricity, or laser hair removal methods, which use a tiny laser beam to destroy the follicles, are effective methods to deal with the unwanted hair.  Both of these methods can be pricey and side effects may include rash, skin discoloration, and scaring.

Medical remedies include anti-androgen medications (prescription) that reduce male hormone levels and, eventually, slow down hair growth.  

The key point here is that hirsutism can be treated.  Take action now and avoid the embarrassment of excessive hair growth.