Hirsutism Clinic / FAQs

Women in the Far East have less hair growth. It is seen that the rate of excessive hair growth is lower in Western society compared to our country. However, hair growth is occurring more and more in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean societies. There are both ethnic and genetic reasons for this.

• What Are The Risk Factors?

The presence of diseases that cause excessive hair growth, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia and polycystic ovarian syndrome, is also a risk factor in the family. Since there is an increase in androgen hormones due to insulin resistance, obesity also poses a risk for excessive hair growth.

• Can PCOS be Comorbid with Other Diseases?

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is 4-5 times higher in women with PCOS than in normal women. In addition, a significant proportion of patients with PCOS have metabolic disorders. Cardiovascular risk factors have increased (such as insulin resistance, and high cholesterol). More than half of patients are obese. Eating disorders are more common in patients with PCOS. There are also studies showing that endometrial cancer is more common in patients with PCOS.

• Are There Tests, Screenings That Can Detect This Before Puberty For Young Girls Who Are Genetically Predisposed?

Early breast development, normal hair growth, for example, occurring before the age of 8, and early menstruation may be precursors of a hormonal disorder.

• Do Cosmetic Applications Like Hair Removal Negatively Affect Treatment?

There is no inconvenience in mechanical attempts to remove the hair from the root, razor blade cleaning, and the use of depilatory creams. Contrary to what is thought, razor-sharp hair removal does not worsen the problem of excessive hair growth and is even less traumatic since it does not cause folliculitis and hair rotation. Hair removers may be useful for some patients, but they can cause skin irritation, especially in the face area. In recent years, laser hair removal treatment has been increasingly used in the treatment of unwanted hair. However, these applications should definitely be made by experienced people. Laser hair removal is not a definitive treatment and can only be applied after the cause of hirsutism has been identified.