Hirsutism is excess hair growth on the body or face. For women, the hair may grow in areas where men often have a lot of hair, but women often don’t. This includes the upper lip, chin, chest, and back. It’s caused by an excess of male hormones called androgens. All women naturally produce small amounts of androgens. But high levels of this hormone can lead to hirsutism.
The presence of facial and body hair is normal for women. However, the texture of the hair is usually very fine and light in color. With hirsutism, hair sprouts in a thick, dark, and coarse male-type pattern and can be seen on a woman’s:
• Face
• Chin
• Sideburns
• Chest and periareolar area
• Lower abdomen
• Upper and lower back
• Upper inner thighs
The presence of facial and body hair is normal for women. However, the texture of the hair is usually very fine and light in color. With hirsutism, hair sprouts in a thick, dark, and coarse male-type pattern and can be seen on a woman’s:
• Face
• Chin
• Sideburns
• Chest and periareolar area
• Lower abdomen
• Upper and lower back
• Upper inner thighs
When Should Excessive Hair Growth Be a Concern?
Any cosmetically disturbing hair growth may be a cause for concern, particularly if the onset is rapid and is associated with masculinizing signs such as:
• A deepening of the voice
• An increase in muscle mass
• An enlargement of the clitoris
• Male pattern balding
• A deepening of the voice
• An increase in muscle mass
• An enlargement of the clitoris
• Male pattern balding
How Is Hirsutism Diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and health history. He or she will give you a physical exam. You may also have blood tests to check for increased androgen levels. These tests can also check for other problems that may cause excess hair growth.
Key Points
• Hirsutism is excess hair growth on the body or face. It’s caused by excess hormones called androgens.
• For women, the hair may grow in places where men often have a lot of hair, but women often don’t. This includes the upper lip, chin, chest, and back.
• It can run in families. It may also be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other problems. In some cases, the cause isn’t known.
• Treatment depends on personal preference. Hair growth causes no physical harm. The decision to remove or reduce hair varies from person to person.
• For women, the hair may grow in places where men often have a lot of hair, but women often don’t. This includes the upper lip, chin, chest, and back.
• It can run in families. It may also be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other problems. In some cases, the cause isn’t known.
• Treatment depends on personal preference. Hair growth causes no physical harm. The decision to remove or reduce hair varies from person to person.
Summary
Excessive or unwanted body and facial hair is a long-term challenge. Most women with diagnosed hormonal imbalances respond well to treatment, but the hair can grow back if your hormone levels become out of sync again.
