Treatment

Excessive facial hair in Women

Excessive facial hair in women is a condition known as hirsutism. Hirsutism refers to the presence of dark, coarse hair in areas where women typically have fine hair or no hair at all, such as the face, chest, abdomen, or back. While it can be a source of distress for some women, it is important to note that hirsutism is relatively common and often treatable. The most common cause of hirsutism in women is an increased level of androgens, which are male hormones that are present in both men and women but at different levels. The most prominent androgen is testosterone. When the levels of androgens, especially testosterone, are elevated in women, it can lead to the growth of coarse facial hair.

  • The causes of hirsutism can vary and may include:


    • 1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that can cause hirsutism. In PCOS, the ovaries produce higher levels of androgens, leading to the development of symptoms such as irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and hirsutism.
    • 2. Idiopathic Hirsutism: In some cases, the cause of hirsutism cannot be identified, and it is referred to as idiopathic hirsutism. This means that there is no underlying hormonal disorder or specific medical condition causing the excess hair growth.
    • 3. Medications: Certain medications, such as anabolic steroids, some hormone therapies, and certain medications used to treat conditions like endometriosis, can cause hirsutism as a side effect.
    • 4. Adrenal Gland Disorders: Rarely, hirsutism can be caused by adrenal gland disorders, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal tumors, which can lead to increased androgen production.
    • 5. Cushing's Syndrome: This condition occurs when there is an excessive production of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Cushing's syndrome can cause hirsutism along with other symptoms such as weight gain, high blood pressure, and a rounded face.
  • Symptom of excessive facial hair in women:

    The main symptom of excessive facial hair in women, known as hirsutism, is the growth of dark, coarse hair in areas where women typically have fine hair or no hair at all. Specifically, excessive facial hair growth can occur on the:


    • 1. Upper lip: Women may notice the growth of thick, dark hair on the upper lip, creating a noticeable mustache-like appearance.
    • 2. Chin: Hair may grow along the chin area, often in the form of coarse, dark strands.
    • 3. Sideburns: Excessive hair growth can extend from the temples down to the jawline, resulting in the presence of sideburns.
    • 4. Cheeks and jawline: Hair may appear on the cheeks and along the jawline, leading to an overall increase in facial hair density.
  • In addition to the physical presence of excess facial hair, hirsutism can sometimes be accompanied by other symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. Some potential associated symptoms may include:


    • 1. Irregular menstrual cycles: Women with hirsutism may experience irregular or absent periods, which could be indicative of hormonal imbalances.
    • 2. Acne: Elevated levels of androgens can contribute to the development of acne or worsening of existing acne.
    • 3. Thinning scalp hair: In some cases, excessive facial hair growth may be accompanied by hair thinning or male-pattern hair loss on the scalp.
    • 4. Deepening voice: Rarely, hirsutism can be associated with a deepening of the voice due to increased androgen levels.
    • 5. Weight gain: Hirsutism may be associated with weight gain or difficulties in losing weight, particularly in cases related to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
  • Dr. M A Halim Khan

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