General Information About Excessive Hair Growth
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the growth of thick and black hairs in women, in areas where normally only men have hair (chin, mustache, chest, belly button), under the influence of male hormone (testosterone).
Some women may genetically (Mediterranean race) have very hairy arms and legs, which is normal (Hypertrichosis). Hirsutism, however, is regional; it is the sudden or post-puberty sprouting of thick, individual black hairs in those specific masculine areas targeted by hormones.
1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This is the cause of 70-80% of hirsutism cases. Cysts in the ovaries produce excess androgens.
2. Idiopathic (Unknown Cause): Hormones in the blood turn out completely NORMAL. However, the hair follicles in that area themselves overreact even to normal hormones (It is familial).
3. Other: Adrenal gland diseases (CAH), Cushing's syndrome, thyroid disorders, or the use of bodybuilding drugs/cortisone.
If the male hormone has increased significantly in the blood, along with hair growth; serious hormonal masculine signs such as severe acne, male-pattern baldness/thinning at the crown of the head, menstrual irregularity, deepening of the voice, and enlargement of the clitoris (virilization) may appear.
The endocrinology doctor uses the 'Ferriman-Gallwey Score', which measures the severity of hair growth. On the 2nd or 3rd day of menstruation, blood is drawn fasting in the morning; hormones such as Total/Free Testosterone, DHEAS, Androstenedione, FSH, LH, 17-OH Progesterone, and Prolactin are checked. The ovaries and adrenal glands are examined with an ultrasound.
Golden Rule: Doing Laser/Waxing from the outside without suppressing the hormone from the inside is COMPLETELY USELESS. Those hairs will sprout again 1 month later.
1. Medical Treatment: First, to stop the factory inside, Birth Control Pills containing Anti-Androgens (male hormone blockers) or special medications (Spironolactone) are prescribed for at least 6 months. (Since the life cycle of the hair is 6 months, the drug's effect starts after the 6th month).
2. Physical Treatment (Laser): The medication stops 'new' black hair growth from the inside. Hairs that have already grown (and turned black) do not fall out with medication. To destroy them, Laser Hair Removal/Needle Epilation is performed under the supervision of a Dermatologist simultaneously with medical treatment, and the patient achieves smooth skin.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
