Hypertrichosis

Overview

Hypertrichosis is extra hair growth anywhere on the body. The hair may be fine and light or thick and dark. It can be limited to one small area or cover much of the body. Hypertrichosis is different from hirsutism, which is extra hair in women in a male pattern and is linked to hormones.

True hypertrichosis is uncommon. Many people have extra hair in some areas, but that is not always hypertrichosis.

Anyone can be affected. Some forms are present at birth, some appear in childhood, and some develop in adulthood. It affects all sexes and ethnic backgrounds.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Extra hair on areas that usually have little or no hair, such as the face, neck, back, or arms
• Hair that is fine and light or thick and dark
• Hair growth limited to one patch or spread widely
• Skin under the hair usually looks normal
• Hair may grow longer or faster than usual

Symptoms in children

• Patches of hair at birth or in early childhood
• Fine hair growth over a larger area of the body
• Hair growth along with signs of early puberty
• Hair growth along with developmental or growth concerns

Symptoms in older adults

• New hair growth on the face or body
• Hair growth after starting a new medicine
• Hair growth along with weight change, tiredness, or feeling unwell
• Sudden changes in hair growth need checking

Causes

Main causes

• Inherited genetic conditions
• Certain medicines
• Hormonal or systemic health conditions
• Malnutrition or eating disorders
• Local skin injury, repeated friction, or inflammation
• Often no clear cause is found

Risk factors

• Family history of similar hair growth
• Taking certain medicines
• Having a health condition that affects hormones or metabolism
• Poor nutrition or an eating disorder
• Repeated skin trauma or friction

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Hair growth starts suddenly or spreads quickly
• Extra hair comes with signs of hormone imbalance, such as voice changes, severe acne, or irregular periods
• A child develops hair growth along with early puberty signs
• Hair growth comes with weight loss, fever, or feeling very unwell

Book a routine appointment if:

• You are bothered by extra hair growth
• Hair growth is spreading or changing over time
• Hair removal causes skin irritation, sores, or infection
• You want to discuss cosmetic or medical options

Diagnosis

There is no single test for hypertrichosis. A clinician diagnoses it by asking about your health, family history, medicines, and hair growth pattern. They will examine your skin and hair and check whether it is hypertrichosis or another type of excess hair growth, such as hirsutism.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check hormone levels, thyroid, and general health
• A review of all medicines, supplements, and creams
• A skin exam and sometimes a small skin sample called a biopsy
• Imaging scans if a hormone-producing growth is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

The visit is usually quick and not invasive. Your clinician may ask about medicines, family history, and other symptoms. If tests are needed, they can help find or rule out underlying causes. You can ask questions and discuss treatment and cosmetic options.

Treatment

Treatment aims to address any cause and help you feel comfortable with the hair growth. Some people choose no treatment. Others use cosmetic removal or medical care. A clinician can help you weigh the options.

Self-care at home

• Shaving, trimming, waxing, or using depilatory creams if your skin tolerates them
• Test new hair removal products on a small area first
• Keep skin clean and moisturized after hair removal
• Avoid sharing razors and avoid plucking hair from inflamed skin
• Protect skin from sun after hair removal

Medical treatments

Your clinician will first look for a cause. If a medicine is responsible, they may adjust it — never stop a prescribed medicine on your own. Treating an underlying condition can reduce hair growth. Cosmetic treatments include laser hair removal, electrolysis, waxing, shaving, trimming, and depilatory creams. Some prescription creams may be an option for certain people. Results vary, and repeat sessions may be needed.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a usual treatment for hypertrichosis. It may be considered if a localized lump, cyst, or growth is causing the hair, or if a serious cause is suspected. Your clinician will explain the risks and benefits.

Living with this condition

Many people manage hypertrichosis with a routine that suits their skin and budget. Hair removal can take time, so choose methods you can keep up with. See a clinician if hair growth changes quickly or if removal causes pain, sores, or infection.

Lifestyle tips

• Use gentle hair removal methods and test new products on a small area first
• Keep skin clean and moisturized
• Protect skin from sun after hair removal
• Avoid pulling or plucking hair from inflamed skin
• Note any new medicines or changes in hair growth
• Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice

Diet and exercise

No diet or exercise plan treats hypertrichosis. A balanced diet and regular movement support overall health. If poor nutrition or an eating disorder is part of the picture, ask for specialist support.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Extra hair growth can affect body image and confidence. It is okay to feel upset. Counselling or support groups can help. If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself, contact your local emergency number or a crisis support service right away.

Prevention

You cannot prevent inherited forms of hypertrichosis. Some acquired forms may be avoided by treating underlying conditions and reviewing medicines with your doctor. Do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own.

Vaccines

No vaccine prevents hypertrichosis.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for hypertrichosis. Your clinician may check for underlying conditions if you have other symptoms.

Complications

If left untreated

• Cosmetic and emotional distress
• Skin irritation or infection from hair removal
• A missed underlying condition if hair growth is a sign of something else
• Social anxiety or low mood

Long-term outlook

Most people with hypertrichosis can manage it well and live healthy lives. Inherited forms are usually lifelong but can be treated cosmetically. Acquired forms may improve when the cause is found and treated. If you are worried, a clinician can help you make a plan.

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