What to Know About Hirsutism in Women

Hirsutism presents as terminal hair on places such as the upper lip, chin, chest, abdomen, back, or inner thighs. This hair is usually thicker or darker than the fine hair that naturally covers much of the body. It is different from a general increase in body hair, which may be influenced by family traits or ethnicity without reflecting an androgen-related change. Androgens are hormones that can encourage coarse hair growth. Hirsutism may accompany polycystic ovary syndrome, which can also cause irregular periods or acne. Other possible contributors include certain medicines, inherited hormone conditions, or changes involving the ovaries or adrenal glands. Some women have regular periods and no clear underlying condition. A clinician may ask when the hair growth began, whether it is progressing, and whether menstrual, skin, weight, or voice changes appeared at the same time. Depending on the pattern, assessment may include an examination and blood tests; imaging is considered when the history or examination suggests a deeper cause.

Choose hair-removal methods according to your skin and hair type. Shaving cuts hair at the surface and does not make it grow back thicker. Tweezing or waxing removes hair from the root but may irritate skin or lead to ingrown hairs. Depilatory creams can cause irritation, so follow the product directions and test a small area first. For longer-term reduction, a dermatologist may discuss laser hair reduction or electrolysis. Results depend on factors such as hair colour, skin tone, the treatment area, and the growth cycle, so more than one session may be needed. Prescription options can slow new growth or address an underlying hormone problem, but they require an individual safety review. Do not stop a prescribed medicine or start a hormone treatment without medical advice. Track changes in hair growth, periods, acne, and medicines before an appointment. A useful starting point is the condition overview on [Hirsutism](/conditions/hirsutism/).

Arrange a medical assessment if new coarse hair is spreading, becoming noticeably thicker, or appearing alongside irregular or absent periods, worsening acne, scalp hair thinning, or difficulty becoming pregnant. Seek prompt care when hair growth develops quickly or is accompanied by a deeper voice, increased muscle bulk, or enlargement of the clitoris, because these changes can signal a stronger androgen effect that needs evaluation. Contact a clinician about painful bumps, pus, repeated ingrown hairs, or dark marks after hair removal. These skin problems may need a different approach from simply removing the hair. A general practitioner, gynaecologist, endocrinologist, or dermatologist can help decide which assessment is appropriate.

Ask: Could my hair pattern be related to hormones, a medicine, or a family trait? Do my periods, acne, or other symptoms suggest that testing would help? Which hair-removal method fits my skin and hair type? What side effects should I watch for with a prescription treatment? How should I manage ingrown hairs or irritation?