How is hirsutism treated?

Hirsutism means coarse, dark hair growth in a pattern more commonly influenced by androgens, such as on the face, chest, abdomen, or back. Treatment starts by considering how quickly the hair appeared, menstrual changes, medicines, and signs such as acne or scalp hair thinning. Excess body hair or unwanted facial hair can have several explanations, so the hair pattern alone does not establish a cause.

A clinician may assess for an endocrine condition and discuss whether blood tests are useful. The plan also takes account of pregnancy plans, contraception, other medicines, skin tone, hair colour, and the area being treated.

Shaving, trimming, threading, waxing, or depilatory products can manage visible hair, but each has different effects on irritation and ingrown hairs. Laser hair removal can reduce growth in suitable hair and skin combinations, while electrolysis treats individual follicles and may suit lighter hairs. A trained practitioner should assess the area and skin before treatment.

Spironolactone treatment may be prescribed for selected patients when androgen effects contribute to hair growth. It needs medical supervision and is not suitable in every pregnancy situation. Hair grows in cycles, so improvement requires repeated treatment and review rather than a single session. Read about [Laser Hair Removal](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-hair-removal/), [Electrolysis Hair Removal](/treatments/laser-and-energy/electrolysis-hair-removal/), and [Spironolactone Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/spironolactone-therapy/).

Arrange a medical review if coarse hair appears suddenly or progresses quickly, or if it occurs with irregular periods, a deeper voice, increased muscle bulk, or scalp hair loss. Seek care for severe skin irritation, burns, or infection after a hair-removal procedure. If you are concerned about the symptom itself, [Excessive Body Hair](/symptoms/excessive-body-hair/) and [Unwanted Facial Hair](/symptoms/unwanted-facial-hair/) provide related context.

Could a hormone condition or medicine be contributing? Which hair-removal method fits my hair and skin? Is spironolactone appropriate for me, and what contraception or monitoring would it require?