Excessive hair growth

Excessive hair growth (also called hirsutism) can occur in both men and women, but is usually a problem only for women. Women who experience hirsutism have excessive growth of dark, course body hair that may appear on the face, chest, abdomen, and back. Excessive facial hair is the most troublesome to women.

The cause of excessive hair growth varies. Common causes include genetics, endocrine disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, and medications like hormones, steroids, and birth control pills. It can be normal depending on race and geographic origin and when it runs in families. Some rare causes include menopause, puberty, pregnancy, ovarian tumor or cancer, and drugs like minoxidil.

Symptoms associated with excessive hair growth may include:

• increased muscle mass
• signs of masculinization (such as deepening of the voice)
• excessive facial hair growth
• menstrual changes
• decreased breast size and
• increased size of genitals

Treatment of excessive hair growth depends on the cause of this problem. If excessive hair growth is a racial, ethnic, or family trait, no medical treatment may be necessary or prescribed. Instead, the person may choose to see a cosmetologist or electrologist for removal of unwanted hair or be advised on home methods for removing unwanted hair.

Women can control excess hair growth by tweezing, shaving, or using bleaches and special hair removal products, such as depilatory creams. Tweezing is good for removing a few hairs, such as around the eyebrows. Shaving works well on legs and underarms. Bleaching works well on the arms, thighs, and just below the nose, while depilatory creams work almost anywhere.

Professional hair removal techniques include hot wax treatments (which are temporary) and permanent procedures, like electrolysis and laser hair removal. All professional procedures should be performed by a licensed healthcare specialist, such as a licensed cosmetologist, esthetician, or electrologist. These professionals may be found in cosmetic surgery or skin care clinics, full-service beauty salons, or practicing on their own.

If the excessive hair growth is due to some underlying medical disorder or disease, treatment will be prescribed by a healthcare provider and may involve medication. If the excessive hair growth is due to a life-cycle change or medication, as with birth control pills, an adjustment or change in medication may be necessary.

Complications can result from any hair removal procedure. Be sure you follow all directions listed for any hair removal product and are informed of the risks involved with any professional hair removal procedure.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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