Hirsutism and Excessive Hair Growth in Women – What Can You Do?
Hirsutism is the medical term for excessive hair growth in women in areas where men normally have hair, such as the face, chest, abdomen and back. This hair is often thick, dark and coarse. Hirsutism is usually caused by an increased sensitivity to androgens (male hormones) or an increased production of them.
The severity of hirsutism is often measured using the Ferriman-Gallwey score. This score assesses hair development on nine body areas. A score of 8 or higher may indicate a hormonal cause such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Causes of hirsutism
- PCOS (most common)
- Hereditary predisposition
- Medication use (such as corticosteroids or anabolic steroids)
- Adrenal or pituitary gland disorders
- Idiopathic hirsutism (no apparent cause)
Hypertrichosis is another form of excessive hair growth. In this case, hair grows in places where it already occurs in women, but in excessive quantities. This is therefore something different from hirsutism.
Impact on skin and well-being
- Ingrown hairs and inflammation (folliculitis)
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Psychosocial complaints such as shame and insecurity
The role of the skin therapist in hirsutism
At Medicadermis I offer a safe, non-hormonal approach to excessive hair growth. The focus is on skin health, hair reduction and preventing complaints such as ingrown hairs or pigment shifts.
Treatment options
- Laser hair removal with medical equipment (such as the Lumenis M22)
- Intake and skin analysis to map hair growth, skin type and risk factors
- Product advice aimed at skin repair and preventing ingrowth or irritation
When do I refer?
If a hormonal cause is suspected, I always refer back to the GP or specialist. Skin therapy is complementary and not a replacement for medical diagnostics.
Treatment trajectory at Medicadermis
I always start with an intake. Based on skin type, hair growth and complaints I create a customized treatment plan. For darker skin types I work with customized settings for maximum safety and results.
View the treatment options:
Intake or non-binding advice
Sources
- Martin, KA, et al. (2008). Evaluation and treatment of hirsutism in premenopausal women: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 93(4), 1105–1120.
- Azziz, R., et al. (2016). Polycystic ovary syndrome. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 2, 16057.