07/30/2026
Derm Index: What You Should Know About Hirsutism
Hirsutism refers to excessive hair growth in women in areas typically associated with male-pattern hair growth, such as the face, chest, and abdomen. It is a common concern, affecting a significant proportion of women worldwide, with studies suggesting that between 25% and 85% of middle-aged women engage in hair removal practices due to unwanted facial and body hair. However, hirsutism is clinically defined when the hair growth is excessive relative to typical female patterns. The condition usually arises due to an imbalance in androgenic hormones, though it may be linked to both genetic and hormonal factors.
Differentiation between Hirsutism and Hypertrichosis
It is essential to differentiate between hirsutism and hypertrichosis, as these terms are often confused. Hirsutism specifically refers to excessive hair growth in androgen-dependent areas, such as the face, chest, and abdomen, in women. In contrast, hypertrichosis is characterized by an excessive amount of hair in normal locations, such as on the limbs or back, regardless of androgenic influence. Hypertrichosis can affect both men and women and may result from genetic factors, certain medications, or underlying conditions, but it does not typically have the same hormonal origins as hirsutism.
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