HORMONES AND UNWANTED HAIR
by Geoffrey Redmond, MD

FACIAL AND BODY HAIR

Treatments For Increased Hair
There are basically three approaches: self-removal at home, use of electrolysis or laser and prescription medication.

Home removal All sorts of methods are in use, but the most common one, tweezing, is the worst -- because it pulls the hair out by the root, which injures the skin. Done for a long time it can give a bumpy look to the skin over the jaw. Snipping with a scissors is better than plucking though it does not last as long. Bleaches and depilatories are OK too; but with depilatories, be sure not to leave them on longer than the instructions say otherwise there can be considerable irritation. A razor is an effective way to remove hair but many women understandably do not like to use one. Despite widespread belief to the contrary, removing hair by a razor or other means does not make it grow in faster or darker.

Electrolysis is a well-established method which is permanent. Continuing treatment is often needed for women with substantial hair growth because new follicles become active. I particularly familiar with this method because I have been an advisor to one of the major electrolysis organizations. To get a good result, electrolysis needs to be done by a skilled professional using proper equipment. A good place to start is the Worldwide Registry of Professional Electrologists WROPE or the directories of two national professional associations: The International Guild of Professional Electrologists, Inc. and American Electrolysis Association. Many electrologists are highly committed to their profession and have an excellent understanding of the problems of women with increased hair growth.

Laser has been heavily promoted. It is said to offer “permanent hair reduction” though how much the hair is actually reduced in the long term is difficult to tell. Current laser technology is not suitable for those with very light or very dark skin. Some get pigmentary changes from it. Long term studies are lacking so that it is hard to tell how happy people will be with the results later on.   

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How Much Hair Is Normal
Medical Terms For Extra Hair
Ethnic Variations In Facial And Body Hair
What Causes Increased Hair
Lab Tests For Increased Hair
I Have Too Much Hair But My Hormone Tests Are Normal – How Can This Be?
Other Reasons For Hirsutism With Normal Testosterone
Treatments For Increased Hair
Medications For Increased Hair
Hope For Women With Unwanted Hair

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