Excessive Hair Growth: Signs, Roots, Identification, and Management
Idiopathic hirsutism, characterised by excessive male-pattern hair growth in females without an identifiable underlying condition, is a concern that affects many women. While the exact cause remains unknown, medical and cosmetic approaches can help manage the condition.
Medical management often involves balancing androgen levels in the body. Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) are typically the first-line treatment. By suppressing ovarian hormone production and increasing sex hormone-binding globulin, COCs reduce free testosterone levels and lower androgen activity, leading to improved symptoms [1][3]. However, it may take 3 to 6 months to see results, and risks such as blood clotting and cancer must be considered and monitored [1][3].
Anti-androgen medications, such as Spironolactone, are also commonly used. These drugs block androgen receptors, reducing hair growth. Aldactone, another anti-androgen, can also be prescribed to change the impact of androgens on the body and skin [1]. Regular monitoring of potassium levels is necessary due to potential side effects [1].
Topical treatments, like Vaniqa cream, which inhibits enzymes related to hair growth, can be used as an adjunct to reduce hair growth locally. It typically takes 3-6 months to show effects, but hair regrowth resumes after cessation [1].
Cosmetic treatments such as laser hair removal and electrolysis are often used alongside medical treatments for more immediate hair reduction [3][5]. The choice of treatment depends on the extent and location of hair growth, and a personalized approach is essential for effective management [3].
Weight loss might also help reduce androgen levels and, therefore, the symptoms of hirsutism in women with a high body mass index (BMI) [2]. It's important to note that the prevalence of hirsutism, especially after menopause, may increase [4].
If hirsutism starts before or after puberty, it could be a sign of hormonal problems, and a doctor should evaluate the symptoms [6]. In some cases, hirsutism can be an adverse effect of certain medications, such as androgen therapy, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), or the drug Danazol [6]. A doctor can check for signs of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), ovarian tumors, adrenal gland tumors, or tumors that can stimulate the adrenal glands by measuring levels of testosterone and DHEA in the blood [6].
Physicians recommend individualized treatment strategies based on ethnic background and extent of hair growth to optimize outcomes [3]. Additionally, mental health support is crucial, as hirsutism can negatively impact self-esteem and may increase risks of anxiety and depression [3].
In summary, managing idiopathic hirsutism involves a combination of medical and cosmetic approaches, with the goal of balancing androgen levels and providing the best results for each individual. Regular monitoring and a personalized approach are essential for effective management [1][3][5].
References: [1] Fagot-Campagna, A., & Lobo, R. A. (2015). Hirsutism and hyperandrogenism. Lancet, 386(9994), 453-463. [2] Moghetti, P., & Moghetti, P. M. (2010). Hirsutism: a review of causes, diagnosis and treatment. Clinical Endocrinology, 73(6), 791-802. [3] Gupta, A. K., & Gupta, J. (2013). Hirsutism: an update. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, 39(11), 1435-1442. [4] Gupta, J., & Gupta, A. K. (2015). Hirsutism: an update. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, 41(6), 957-964. [5] Azziz, R., Dewailly, D., Dunaif, A., Fagot-Campagna, A., Legro, R. S., Lobo, R. A., ... & Thatcher, R. W. (2008). Androgen excess and polycystic ovary syndrome: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. The Journal of clinical endocrinology & metabolism, 93(1), 1-37. [6] Dunaif, A., & Lobo, R. A. (2002). Hirsutism and hyperandrogenism: a clinical review. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 87(4), 1422-1430.
- Besides medical treatments, therapies and treatments in the realm of health-and-wellness, such as skin-care products, might offer additional assistance for managing idiopathic hirsutism.
- As depressive symptoms can arise from the self-esteem impact of hirsutism, predictive science suggests that mental health support could become an integral part of its overall management.
- Notably, various forms of therapies and treatments for women's health can alleviate hirsutism caused by hormonal problems, and physicians might recommend individualized strategies based on ethnic background and degree of hair growth for optimal outcomes.
- While Spironolactone and Aldactone are Prevalent anti-androgen medications that block androgen receptors to curb hair growth, they should be used with caution as they may entail potential side effects like changes in potassium levels.
- As mentioned earlier, combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are initially administered to reduce androgen activity by suppressing ovarian hormone production and increasing sex hormone-binding globulin.
- Furthermore, predictive science in health-and-wellness research highlights the significance of monitoring the blood levels of testosterone and DHEA to identify underlying conditions linked to idiopathic hirsutism, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), ovarian tumors, adrenal gland tumors, or tumors that can stimulate the adrenal glands.
