Medical Treatment Options for Unwanted Facial Hair

Unwanted facial hair is the result of a hormonal excess in the system, but may also be genetic. The facial hair in women may be removed using different techniques, but the best solutions are the long term solutions that will solve the underlying problem or will at least reduce the visibility of the dark hair.

1. Hormonal Therapy

Unwanted facial hair in women typically occurs due to an excess of testosterone hormones, which control the hair growth. While facial hair is normal in men, in women it is not desired. Women that have a high level of masculine hormones may be menopausal or have a hormonal problem caused by a thyroid or adrenal gland defect.

If the problem is detected, the medical solution would be a hormonal therapy, which will restore the hormonal balance. The hormones may be prescribed as injections or as tablets. The dose must be carefully monitored and adjusted as the condition improves. Most patients respond well to hormonal therapy, but this may have a few side effects such as nausea, excessive sweating, mood swings or liver problems.

The treatment may be administered for a short period of time or for life, depending on the condition of the patient. As soon as the hormonal balance is re-established, the facial hair will stop growing or will be softer and less visible.

2. Surgery

In some cases of excessive facial hair in women, the doctor may decide the best solution is surgery. The surgery may fix thyroid or adrenal gland dysfunctions and has the advantage of being a permanent solution.

3. Laser Hair Removal

The laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that will give durable results. Women with terminal hair (coarse and darker) or vellus (soft and light) may benefit from this procedure. The laser hair removal is recommended if there are no detected underlying conditions that require medication treatment.

The procedure employs laser beams that target the hair follicle, which is burnt. After several laser treatments, the hair follicle will be weak and the hair may not grow or grow less visible and much softer. The treatment is more expensive than traditional waxing or shaving, but the results are permanent.

The treatment is more effective in patients with a white complexion and dark hair. Patients with blonde, red or white hair may not have the best results.

4. Electrolysis

Electrolysis is an unwanted hair removal procedure that deals with the hair follicles. Electric current in applied in the problem areas. Repeated treatments of electrolysis will destroy the hair follicles, so the hair will be weaker and less noticeable. The procedure may be painful, but the results are permanent.

5. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

The intense pulsed light (IPL) technology is used on the same principles as the laser hair removal and is aimed at destroying the hair follicles. The IPL procedure is less painful than electrolysis and will also have permanent results. If the patient will experience hormonal imbalance, the hair may grow back.