Hypertrichosis is the term used for the growth of hair on any part of the body in excess of the amount usually present in persons of the same age, race, and sex, excluding
androgen-induced hair growth. In its generalized and circumscribed forms,
hypertrichosis may either be an isolated finding, or be associated with other abnormalities. Therefore, accurate classification of
hypertrichosis is mandatory. Excessive hair may cause cosmetic embarrassment, resulting in a significant emotional burden, particularly if extensive. Treatment options are limited, and the results of
therapy not always satisfactory. Patients should, therefore, be adequately advised of the available treatment modalities for temporary or permanent
hair removal. No single method of
hair removal is appropriate for all body locations or patients, and the one adopted will depend on the character, area, and amount of hair growth, as well as on the age of the patient, and their personal preference. The currently available treatment methods include cosmetic procedures (bleaching, trimming, shaving, plucking, waxing, chemical depilatories, and electrosurgical
epilation), and
hair removal using light sources and
lasers.
Laser-assisted
hair removal is the most efficient method of long-term
hair removal currently available. The lack of comparative data make it difficult to choose the most effective system, however, although the color contrast between epidermis and the hair shaft will determine the type of
laser to favor. A novel treatment for slowing excessive hair growth is topical
eflornithine, an inhibitor of the
enzyme ornithine decarboxylase present in hair follicles that is important in hair growth. In general, treatment of
hypertrichosis is more satisfactory for patients with localized involvement, than for those with generalized
hypertrichosis.