Excessive facial hair

Additional information

What is excessive hair in women?

Excessive hair growth in women, known as hirsutism, is a condition where women develop unwanted and excessive hair in areas typically associated with male-pattern hair growth, such as the face, chest, and back. This hair is often darker, coarser, and more noticeable than the fine, light hair usually found in these areas. Hirsutism can be distressing and may significantly impact a woman’s confidence and self-esteem.

What causes excessive hair in women?

Hirsutism is often the result of an imbalance in hormones, particularly an excess of androgens (male hormones) in the body. Several factors can contribute to this condition, including:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): The most common cause of hirsutism, PCOS leads to an overproduction of androgens, resulting in excessive hair growth.
• Genetics: A family history of hirsutism can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as steroids or hormone treatments, can trigger increased hair growth.
• Cushing’s Syndrome: This condition causes the body to produce too much cortisol, which can lead to hirsutism.
• Androgen-secreting tumors: Rarely, tumors in the ovaries or adrenal glands can cause excess production of male hormones, leading to hirsutism.

What are the symptoms of excessive hair in women?

The primary symptom of hirsutism is the growth of coarse, dark hair in areas where women typically have lighter, finer hair or no hair at all, such as:

• Face: Upper lip, chin, and sideburns
• Chest: Between the breasts and around the nipples
• Back: Particularly the lower back
• Abdomen: Especially the lower abdomen
• Arms and legs: Although less common, these areas can also be affected

In addition to excessive hair growth, women with hirsutism may experience other symptoms depending on the underlying cause, such as irregular menstrual cycles, acne, and a deepening of the voice.

How to treat excessive hair in women

Treatment for hirsutism often involves a combination of hair removal techniques and medical treatments:

Hair removal methods:

• Shaving: Quick and easy but requires frequent maintenance.
• Waxing: Provides longer-lasting results but can be painful.
• Depilatory creams: Chemical creams dissolve hair but may cause skin irritation.
• Electrolysis: A permanent hair removal method using electric currents to destroy hair follicles.
• Laser Hair Removal: Uses laser technology to reduce hair growth over multiple sessions.

Medical treatments:

• Oral Contraceptives: Birth control pills can help balance hormone levels and reduce androgen production.
• Anti-androgen Medications: These medications block the effects of androgens on hair growth.
• Topical Creams: Vaniqa (eflornithine) is a topical cream that slows facial hair growth by inhibiting an enzyme involved in hair production. It is applied to the affected areas twice daily and can take 4 to 8 weeks to show results.

Vaniqa for excessive hair growth in women

Vaniqa (eflornithine hydrochloride) is a topical cream specifically designed to slow down the growth of unwanted facial hair in women. It’s particularly beneficial for those struggling with hirsutism, providing a non-invasive option to manage the condition effectively.

How Vaniqa works

Vaniqa works by inhibiting an enzyme called ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), which plays a crucial role in the hair growth cycle. This enzyme is involved in the production of polyamines, compounds that are essential for cell division and hair growth. By blocking the action of ODC, Vaniqa effectively slows down the rate at which hair grows, making it a valuable tool in reducing the appearance of facial hair over time.

What to expect when using Vaniqa

Vaniqa doesn’t remove hair but instead slows the growth of new hair. It’s important to understand that Vaniqa is not a permanent solution for hair removal but a treatment to manage hair growth. When you start using Vaniqa, you may not see immediate results. It typically takes 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use before you notice a significant reduction in hair growth. The cream should be applied to the affected areas of the face twice daily, at least 8 hours apart.

How to prevent excessive hair in women

While complete prevention of hirsutism may not be possible, certain steps can help manage and reduce its effects:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can increase androgen levels, so keeping a healthy weight may help manage symptoms.
• Follow a Balanced Diet: A diet low in refined sugars and high in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports overall hormonal health.
• Regular Exercise: Exercise helps regulate hormones and improve insulin sensitivity, particularly in women with PCOS.
• Avoid Triggers: If certain medications or treatments exacerbate hair growth, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider.

When to seek medical attention

If you experience sudden or severe hair growth, or if hirsutism is accompanied by other symptoms like irregular periods, acne, or a deepening voice, it’s essential to seek medical advice. These symptoms could indicate an underlying condition such as PCOS or a hormone-secreting tumour that requires treatment.

Buy online from Medical Mojo

At Medical Mojo, we offer a variety of treatments to help you manage and treat excessive hair growth. Whether you’re seeking effective hair removal solutions or medications to balance your hormones, our online pharmacy provides a range of options tailored to your needs. All our products are approved by UK-qualified prescribers, ensuring you receive safe and effective treatments. Shop with us today for discreet delivery and expert advice to help you regain your confidence.