What should you know about hyper hirsutism?

Hirsutism is different from general hairiness: the concern is the texture, colour, and pattern of growth. Hair may become more noticeable around the upper lip, chin, jawline, breasts, lower abdomen, or inner thighs. A person may also have acne, oily skin, irregular periods, or scalp hair thinning when androgen hormones are contributing. Polycystic ovary syndrome is one possible cause, but it is not the only one. Family traits, changes around puberty or menopause, certain medicines, and less common hormone disorders can also be involved.

The amount of visible hair does not by itself identify the cause. A clinician may ask when the change began, how quickly it progressed, menstrual and pregnancy history, medicines, and related symptoms. Examination may be followed by hormone testing or other checks when the history suggests they are useful. This condition is described in more detail on the [Hirsutism](/conditions/hirsutism/) page.

Treatment is chosen around the cause, the areas involved, skin and hair colour, pregnancy plans, and how much the hair affects you. Shaving, trimming, threading, waxing, or a depilatory product can manage visible hair; these methods do not make the underlying growth stronger, although waxing and depilatories may irritate sensitive skin.

Laser hair removal can reduce growth over a course of appointments and works through pigment in the hair, so suitability depends on the contrast between hair and skin and on the device used. Electrolysis targets individual follicles and can be useful for smaller areas or hair that is not suitable for laser. Hormone-related growth may also be treated with prescribed medicines, such as spironolactone, when appropriate. Discuss contraception, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and other medicines before starting hormone treatment. Read about [Laser Hair Removal](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-hair-removal/) and [Electrolysis Hair Removal](/treatments/laser-and-energy/electrolysis-hair-removal/).

Arrange a medical assessment if coarse hair appears suddenly, increases quickly, or comes with a deeper voice, increased muscle bulk, severe acne, scalp hair loss, or periods that become irregular or stop. These changes can signal a stronger androgen effect and should not be judged from hair growth alone.

Seek prompt care for severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fainting, or heavy unexpected bleeding. Otherwise, a routine appointment with a dermatologist, gynaecologist, or primary-care clinician can help clarify the pattern and select a safe plan. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice, even if you suspect it is affecting hair growth.

You could ask: What pattern of hair growth do you see? Do my periods, acne, or medicines suggest a hormone-related cause? Do I need blood tests? Which removal method fits my skin and hair type? What preparation and aftercare reduce irritation or pigment changes? If spironolactone is considered, how does it fit with my pregnancy plans and current medicines?