Hypertrichosis and Hirsutism

Hypertrichosis and hirsutism in women were associated with significant psychological issues. Various treatment options were available, including cosmetic and medical approaches. Systemic antiandrogens were commonly used for hirsutism, particularly by gynecologists, although their efficacy against hypertrichosis was not proven in clinical studies with modern endpoints. Traditional hair removal methods included plucking, waxing, chemical depilation, electrolysis, and thermolysis. A novel treatment was the use of eflornithine cream, which temporarily inhibited the enzyme ornithine-decarboxylase in hair follicles. Photothermolysis using lasers and pulsed flash-light systems was considered the most promising method for permanent hair removal.