Excessive hair growth, also known as Hirsutism, can cripple self-confidence. The normal amount of body hair for women varies. Most of the time, a woman only has fine hair, or peach fuzz, above the lips and on the chin, chest, abdomen, or back. If you have coarse, dark hairs in these areas, the condition is called hirsutism.
Causes of Hirsutism
Women normally produce low levels of male hormones (androgens). If your body makes too much of this hormone, you may have unwanted hair growth.
In most cases, the exact cause is never identified. It tends to run in families. In general, Hirsutism is a harmless condition. But many women find it bothersome, or even embarrassing.
PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome)
A common cause of Hirsutism is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Women with PCOS and other hormone conditions that cause unwanted hair growth may also have acne, problems with menstrual periods, trouble losing weight, and diabetes.
Home care
Hirsutism is generally a long-term problem. There are a number of ways to remove or treat unwanted hair. Some treatment effects last longer than others.
- Bleaching or lightening hair may make it less noticeable
- Weight loss in overweight women can reduce hair growth
- Shaving does not cause more hair to grow, but hair may look thicker
- Plucking and waxing are relatively cheap form of hair removal, however, they can be painful, and the effects do not last for a long period of time.
Permanent hair removal
- Electrolysis uses an electrical current to permanently damage individual hair follicles so that they do not grow back. Multiple treatments are needed for long-term effect.
- Laser hair removal uses a laser aimed at the dark colour (Melanin) in the hairs. This can cover a large area of skin but can only be used on hair that is particularly dark and will not work on blonde or red hair.
At Diamond Skin Care, we know how excessive hair growth can affect your quality of life. We offer consultations within 24 hours of contact with an expert dermatologist. Call us on 01603 819125 or email us at [email protected] for more information on excessive hair growth and treatments that we offer.
