Hirsutism | Hirsutism Causes and Treatment

What is hirsutism? It is a condition in which a woman or man experiences excessive growth of hair in those parts of the body where terminal hair is otherwise less or minimum. For example, in the case of hair on chests or beards. It is a symptom rather than a disease.

Causes of hirsutism

It can affect either women or men. It could be due to increased level of androgens or an over sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens. Symptoms like acne and deepening of the voice and increase in muscle mass are also some of the symptoms associated with hirsutism in men. Increased level of insulin can cause hirsutism in women. Increased secretion of steroids, enzyme deficiency, excess growth of hormones, increase in prolactin level, hypothyroidism, polycystic ovarian diseases, obesity are also some of the causes for hirsutism. Similarly ovarian tumors, arrhenoblastoma, gonadoblastomas, lipoid cell tumors, dysgerminoma, Brenner's tumor, Theca cell tumors, adrenal tumors can also lead to such condition. Similarly drugs like minoxidil, phenytoin, cyclosporine, diazoxide, androgens, oral contraceptives, penicillamine, heavy metals and acetazolamide can increase the risk of hirsutism.

Treatment for Hirsutism

You can go for cosmetic hair treatments like hair bleaching, hair plucking, shaving, applying hair removal creams, hair waxing, abrasive pads, electrolysis, thermolysis are some of the treatments. Laser therapy has become quite common these days as it is relatively safe and lasts for long and ofcourse you also find quick outcome. However laser treatment administered for long can lead to destruction of the nearby structures and thereby cause scarring.

Natural ways to prevent Hirsutism

A mixture of tea tree essential oil and olive oil can prevent excess hair growth in body. Once you apply this mixture, you need to stay for 15 minutes before washing. Next you can also make use of Oregano essential oil mixed with natural sugar and jojoba oil. Even grapefruit seed mixed with jojoba oil can do wonders.