Excessive body hair

Excessive Body Hair

Excessive body hair can be a bothersome condition in any individual.

There are two types 

  1. Hypertrichosis
  2. Hirsutism

Hypertrichosis

1.What is hypertrichosis? 

Excessive hair growth anywhere on the body. It can be localized to a specific area or affect the entire body.

Among the various types of hypertrichosis, increased hair throughout the body that runs in families is the commonest.

How is increased body hair treated ?

Laser hair reduction is very effective in this type of hair growth.

Both men and women can benefit from this and it is suitable for face as well as body hair.

Hirsutism

2. What is Hirsutism?

Hirsutism is a condition where women develop excessive dark, coarse hair in male-like patterns (on the face, chest, stomach, or back). 

What is the cause of Hirsutism?

  • Hormonal Imbalances – High levels of androgens (male hormones), hypothyroidism etc
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Most common cause; associated with irregular periods, acne, with or without weight gain (lean PCOS).
  • Late onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia
  • Insulin Resistance 
  • Certain Medications – Some steroids, hormone treatments, or birth control changes.
  • Genetics 

How is hirsutism diagnosed?

1. History 

Duration of the problem

Menstrual history – Period length, flow

History of difficulty in conception, infertility, abortions etc

1. Clinical examination 

  • Areas of hair growth 
  • Associated features of hormonal imbalance – resistant or jawline acne, 
  • Hair loss , neck and underarm pigmentation

2. Blood investigations

  • Thyroid profile
  • Prolactin
  • Total testosterone 
  • DHEAS, 17 OH progesterone etc,

3. Ultrasound imaging – for ovarian cysts

What is the treatment of hirsutism?

  1. Treatment begins with addressing the underlying problem 
  2. It is multidisciplinary with involvement of gynecologist and endocrinologist 
  3. Temporary hair reduction techniques
    1. Topical creams to reduce hair growth 
    2. Razor/trimmers to remove hair 
    3. Waxing / threading is best avoided as it increases the thickness of hair
  4. Permanent/ semi permanent hair reduction with lasers.

What is Laser Hair Reduction technique? 

Laser hair reduction is one of the most effective treatments.

The laser targets the colour/ pigment in the hair and destroys the hair from the root. 

Hirsutism will require a few more treatment sessions as the hair growth in this condition  is hormonally driven. On an average 6-8 sessions and maintenance therapy once a year might be required.