Unwanted hair on your face or body is a common issue that we see in our clinics at Advanced Dermatology of the Midlands. Unwanted hair growth can run in families. Though women tend to seek care for this problem more frequently, men can be affected by unwanted or excess hair growth as well. This post will address the issue and treatment options.
Unwanted Hair Growth
Hair Growth in Unwanted Locations
Hair growth in various unwanted locations is extremely common. In most cases does not signify any underlying medical conditions. Select cases have shown certain signs and symptoms are present, therefore needing further investigation.
In women, some of the most common areas that are problematic are:
- Upper lip
- Chin
- Neck
- The chest, especially the area around the nipples
- legs
- Bikini area
In contrast, men are most often bothered by unwanted hair growth on the back and ears. As well as excessively thick hair of the eyebrows and the region between the eyebrows known as the glabella. This causes the problem frequently referred to as the monobrow or unibrow.
Hormonal Conditions and Unwanted Hair Growth
Laboratory investigation (blood tests) will be done to rule out an underlying hormonal disorder. For example, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a complex hormonal condition in women. High levels of testosterone in women with PCOS can cause irregular menstrual cycles and the development of excess body hair.
PCOS is a common cause of hirsutism in women and is a result of high levels of androgens. Hirsutism refers to the growth of coarse dark hair in areas where females typically grow fine or no hair. Anti-androgens and hormonal contraceptives or birth control pills treat hirsutism.
Females with Cushing syndrome may also have signs of androgen excess. Men with Cushing syndrome do not develop excess body hair but may have acne.
Weight loss can also lower your androgen levels and stop excess hair growth.
Men and women both have androgens, but men typically have higher levels of them. The adrenal glands secrete androgens, and hair follicles respond by growing thick hair. Irrespective of that, there is good news! Many different treatment options are available for unwanted hair growth.
Medicinal Hair Removal Treatments
Vaniqa (pronounced vanika) is a medicine that you apply twice daily to the skin. Vaniqa is FDA-approved for unwanted facial hair. Though not successful in every case, Vaniqa can be very helpful for some patients.
Its effect only lasts as long as you use the medicine. Vaniqa works best on thicker, coarse hairs, and generally will not do much for that thin peach fuzz known as lanugo hair. The best thing about Vaniqa (especially when compared to laser), is that it can work on any hair color including gray/white/blonde/red. As with any topically applied medication, it can have some side effects, and a prescription is required.
Laser Hair Removal Treatments
Laser treatment for unwanted hair can be one of the very best treatments available. It is generally very safe and works best for dark coarse hair. Laser hair removal can be a long-term solution for removing hair that grows in unwanted places.
However, in cases where the laser doesn’t destroy hair follicles completely, slow hair growth may occur. For more detailed information on laser hair removal/treatment, look here for more information: Laser Treatments. We offer laser treatment with the Lumenis Lightsheer Laser—one of the best hair treatment lasers in the world.
Mechanical and Electrical Hair Removal Treatments
Dermatologists treat unwanted body hair using various other methods. This includes traditional shaving, plucking, and waxing, as well as electrolysis. However, dermatologists don’t use electrolysis as much as they once did. This is likely due to the other available treatments that have come to the market.
Dermaplaning can help temporary removal of unwanted hairs. This special treatment can help smooth and rejuvenate the skin as well. We offer dermaplaning services through our clinics for cosmetic enhancement of the skin. Please refer to our recent blog to learn more about it: Dermaplaning.
Advanced Dermatology of the Midlands | Best Dermatologist Omaha & Council Bluffs, IA | Board Certified Dermatologists
At Advanced Dermatology the Midlands we offer consultative services for all problems related to hair, including unwanted hair and hair loss (alopecia). Many different treatments are available, and we love providing our patients with guidance regarding the best options for them. We hope you and your family remain safe throughout the holiday season. Contact us to schedule a consultation if you have any interest in pursuing treatment for unwanted hair. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
