[Androgenetic alopecia, hirsutism and hypertrichosis]

Having too much hair on the face or the body and not enough on the scalp respectively, is generally not a mirror of a life-threatening disease. However, the emotional impact of such cosmetic problems may be remarkable in the individual case. Currently rational treatment options are becoming increasingly available to correct such hair problems. This review highlights the new therapeutic achievements in the treatment of both androgenetic alopecia and hirsutism. Oral treatment of male patterned hair loss with finasteride in men is emphasized, and the use of antiandrogens in women is discussed. In addition, the mode of action and clinical results of topical minoxidil treatment find mention. The second part of the review deals with hirsutism and hypertrichosis. The diagnostic steps and investigations are briefly reviewed, and the advances in laser treatment of hirsutism and hypertrichosis are presented.