Hirsutism Treatment
Introduction
In areas of the body where hair growth is usually male-pattern, such as the face, chest, back, and abdomen, excessive hair growth in women is known as hirsutism. Hormonal imbalances, such as high levels of androgens (male hormones) or greater sensitivity to androgens in the hair follicles, frequently contribute to the condition. The underlying cause of hirsutism, the severity of the condition, and the patient’s preferences and requirements will all influence the treatment option. To choose the best course of therapy, it is crucial to speak with a dermatologist or other member of the medical community.
Pathophysiology
A surplus of androgen hormones contributes to the pathophysiology of hirsutism by promoting the development of terminal hair in androgen-sensitive body regions like the face, chest, back, and abdomen. Androgens, which are masculine hormones, are also found in women, albeit in smaller amounts. Hirsutism can occur when androgen levels rise, either as a result of an excess generation of androgens or an increased sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens. Treatment for hirsutism aims to lower androgen levels or hair follicle sensitivity to androgens, which can aid in reducing or even stopping excessive hair development.
The levels of androgens in the body are controlled by hormonal medicines like glucocorticoids, anti-androgens, and birth control pills. Eflornithine is a topical medication that inhibits the enzyme that promotes hair development. Shaving, waxing, or threading are all temporary solutions for hair elimination that don’t deal with the underlying hormonal imbalance. A patient’s preferences and requirements, the condition’s underlying cause, the severity of the excessive hair growth, and the option of hirsutism treatment all come into play. Based on individual circumstances, a dermatologist or healthcare expert can assist in choosing the most appropriate course of action.
Side Effects
The side effects of hirsutism treatment vary depending on the specific treatment used:
- Hormonal medications: Glucocorticoids, anti-androgens, and birth control pills can all help control the body’s levels of androgens, which can lessen the development of excessive hair. Hormonal therapy side effects can include nausea, mood swings, breast tenderness, and shifts in menstrual periods.
- Topical remedies: Eflornithine cream works as a topical remedy by blocking the enzyme that promotes hair development. Eflornithine ointment side effects can include rash, skin itchiness, burning, or stinging where it has been applied.
- Temporary hair removal techniques: Shaving, waxing, threading, or plucking are some options for controlling excessive hair development. Skin irritability, ingrown hairs, or redness at the hair removal spot are all possible side effects of hair removal techniques.
- Electrolysis and laser hair removal both entail destroying the hair follicles in order to permanently reduce or eliminate hair growth. Electrolysis and laser hair removal procedures may cause skin sensitivity, redness, swelling, or pain where the procedure is being performed.
How do Dermatologists do Hirsutism Treatment?
Dermatologists may use a combination of different treatment methods to manage hirsutism, including:
- Hormonal medications: Glucocorticoids, anti-androgens, and birth control pills can all help control the body’s levels of androgens, which can slow the development of excessive hair.
- Topical remedies: Eflornithine cream works as a topical remedy by blocking the enzyme that promotes hair development. To stop hair growth, apply this cream straight to the skin’s affected areas.
- Temporary hair removal techniques: Shaving, waxing, threading, or plucking are some options for controlling excessive hair development.
- Laser hair removal: This technique includes using a laser to permanently reduce or remove hair by damaging the hair follicles.
- Electrolysis: This technique entails delivering an electric current to each hair follicle through the use of a very small needle in order to kill the hair follicle.
Before & After Treatment Images
