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Causes and management of hypertrichosis
1Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Switzerland. ramitru@derm.unzih.ch
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology
|November 26, 2002
Summary
Hypertrichosis, excessive hair growth, presents challenges due to limited, often unsatisfactory, treatments. Laser-assisted hair removal offers the most efficient long-term solution, with topical eflornithine as a novel option.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Medical Aesthetics
Background:
- Hypertrichosis is defined as excessive hair growth beyond normal patterns, excluding androgen-induced cases.
- It can manifest in generalized or localized forms, sometimes associated with other medical conditions.
- Excessive hair growth can cause significant cosmetic distress and emotional burden.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and classify hypertrichosis.
- To discuss current and novel treatment modalities for hypertrichosis.
- To provide guidance on selecting appropriate hair removal methods.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on hypertrichosis classification and treatments.
- Analysis of cosmetic procedures, light-based therapies, and pharmacological interventions.
- Evaluation of treatment efficacy based on hair characteristics and patient factors.
Main Results:
- Treatment effectiveness varies, with laser-assisted hair removal being the most efficient for long-term results.
- Topical eflornithine represents a new approach to slow excessive hair growth by inhibiting ornithine decarboxylase.
- Localized hypertrichosis generally responds better to treatment than generalized forms.
Conclusions:
- Accurate classification is essential for managing hypertrichosis.
- Patient education on diverse hair removal options is crucial.
- While laser treatments are effective, method selection depends on individual factors; eflornithine offers a new therapeutic avenue.