Hirsutism Treatment: Practical Ways to Reduce Unwanted Facial and Body Hair
Hirsutism means excess dark hair in a male pattern on a woman. If you’re seeing new chin, chest, or back hair, treatments can help. This page walks through real options you can discuss with your doctor, how long they take to work, and what to expect.
First, find the cause. Common culprits are polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), certain medications, and rare hormone issues. A simple check usually includes a menstrual history, physical exam, and blood tests for testosterone and other androgens. Knowing the reason helps pick the right treatment.
Medical options often start with drugs that lower or block androgens. Spironolactone is widely used; it reduces hair growth over months but can cause heavier periods or lightheadedness. Combined oral contraceptives lower male hormones and also regulate cycles. Finasteride or dutasteride may be used in specific cases, though they’re not first-line for every woman. Eflornithine cream slows facial hair growth and can be paired with other methods.
Hair removal methods give faster visible results. Laser hair removal targets hair follicles and can give long-term reduction after multiple sessions. Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved permanent removal method and works well on single stubborn hairs. Shaving, waxing, and depilatory creams are cheap and immediate but need regular repeat care.
How to choose a plan
Decide based on how much hair you have, how fast you want results, and whether you plan pregnancy. Medical treatments are better for widespread or hormonally driven hair. Cosmetic methods work for localized areas or when you want quick improvement. Often people combine approaches: medication plus laser, for example.
Expectations and timing
Medical treatments need patience. You might see a change at three months and clearer results at six to twelve months. Laser needs 6–8 sessions spaced weeks apart. Electrolysis might require many visits for larger areas. Track progress with photos so small changes don’t get overlooked.
Side effects matter. All drugs carry risks, and some can affect liver tests, blood pressure, or cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Lasers can cause temporary redness, pigmentation changes, or burns if done poorly. Always choose licensed providers and ask about safety steps.
Practical tips: keep a hair diary, use steroid-free skincare after laser, avoid tanning before sessions, and tell your provider if you plan pregnancy. If hair growth is sudden, rapid, or accompanied by other changes like deepening voice or irregular periods, see a doctor quickly.
If you want help deciding, bring a list of medications, a timeline of symptoms, and clear photos to your visit. The right mix of tests, medicines, and hair removal can make a big difference without guessing. You don’t have to accept unwanted hair as permanent—options exist and work when matched to the cause.
Costs vary: topical creams and shaving are cheap, prescriptions and laser cost more. Clinics offer package deals for sessions. Insurance may cover hormone tests but rarely covers cosmetic removal. Ask about financing. Follow-up visits every 3–6 months help adjust treatment.
