We frequently are asked by women why they are growing hair on their chin, upper lip, or face. Others voice concern about bumps or folliculitis that occur after waxing the bikini line or plucking chin hairs. Some individuals just don’t want to have back or armpit hair. Almost everyone dislikes the shaving and waxing rituals during beach (or Jersey shore) season.
While recognizing that excessive hair growth is occurring is the first step, the next steps involve exploring what is causing the unwanted hair.
Hair plays a pivotal role in our appearance and self-confidence. However, experiencing unwanted hair can disrupt this balance, causing distress for many individuals. At HMGS Dermatology, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the important conditions that cause hirsutism and hypertrichosis to help you regain control over your hair health.
Diagnosing and Managing Unwanted Hair Growth
Hirsutism is characterized by excessive hair growth in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face (chin, upper lip, beard) or chest. It is often caused by genetics, familial tendency, medications, or hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Hypertrichosis is a condition that causes excessive hair growth on the body. Treatment options for unwanted hair include:
- GentleLase Laser Hair Removal: An advanced laser treatment that precisely targets hair follicles for long-term hair reduction.
- Eflornithine Cream: A prescription topical therapy for facial hair reduction.
- Spironolactone: An anti-androgen medication that reduces hormonal-driven hair.
- Electrolysis: A procedure that uses electric current to remove hair.
- Waxing, Threading, Depilatory creams: Traditional options that are temporary.
- Modifications in Systemic Medications
HMGS Dermatology also diagnose the less common cause of excessive hair: hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, medication induced (eg minoxidil, cyclosporine, erlotinib, steroids), malnutrition, malignancy associated (hypertrichosis lanuginosa), porphyria cutanea tarda, lichen simplex chronicus, nevoid hypertrichosis, congenital hypertrichosis, hypertrichosis seen in birth marks/congenital nevi, pilonidal cysts, adrenal tumors, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
We have vast experience in diagnosing and treating excess hair disorders that occur in neonates, children, teens, and adults.
Treatment options will vary depending on the underlying cause. That is where the HMGS providers will help. Diagnosis is critical for exploring the correct treatment. There are many dermatologic considerations when hair removal is entertained. Our providers review diet, medical history, skin type, gender, genetics, and the use of topical retinoids, oral contraceptives, and supplements.
The combination of medical therapies and advanced laser technology ensures optimal results for patients dealing with hirsutism and unwanted hair. Explore more about our solutions for hirsutism on our dedicated page: Hirsutism Treatment Page.
Why Choose HMGS Dermatology?
At HMGS Dermatology, we offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our team of board-certified dermatologists combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to address conditions like unwanted hair effectively.
Whether you are looking to find out why you are growing too much hair or just want to remove excess hair, we are here to help you achieve your goals. Visit our website at HMGS Dermatology to learn more about our services.
Your Journey to Less Hair Starts Here!
If you’re struggling with too much hair, don’t wait any longer to seek professional help. Schedule a consultation today with one of our expert dermatology providers at HMGS Dermatology. Take the first step toward reclaiming your confidence!
Dr. Warren Heymann, Dr. Steven Manders, Dr. Justin Green, Dr. Lacy Sommer, Dr. Patrick McMahon, and Dr. Camille Introcaso, MD
Board Certified Dermatologists and Partners
The partners of HMGS Dermatology represent some of the most highly trained, accomplished, and respected dermatologists in the region, bringing together decades of expertise across general, pediatric, surgical, and academic dermatology. With education and training from some of the nation’s top institutions—including the University of Pennsylvania, UCSF, Temple, and Rutgers—they are board-certified in multiple subspecialties such as dermatology, pediatric dermatology, and dermatopathology. Many serve as professors and program directors at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, shaping the future of dermatology through teaching, research, and leadership. Collectively, they have held prestigious roles such as division heads, board directors, and presidents of dermatologic societies, while earning recognition through numerous “Top Doctor” awards and lifetime achievement honors. Whether advancing innovation in pediatric care, cutaneous oncology, or medical education, the HMGS partners are united by their commitment to excellence and providing the highest standard of compassionate, expert skin care to their patients.