Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser
Hirsutism (Excess Facial & Body Hair) Advice
A patient advice sheet — 8 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.
Last reviewed: July 2026
The advice
- Hirsutism is coarse dark hair in male-pattern areas in women; it is very common, often familial, and PCOS is the commonest medical cause.
- We assess hormones when there are pointers (irregular cycles, resistant acne, male-pattern hair thinning, weight gain), in coordination with gynaecology/endocrinology.
- Rapid onset over months, or virilization signs (deepening voice, muscle bulk) = urgent evaluation.
- Laser is the most effective long-term reduction, especially for dark coarse hair: usually 6–8 sessions then maintenance; white/grey hairs do not respond (electrolysis is their alternative).
- Between laser sessions: shaving or trimming only — no plucking or waxing (it removes the target the laser works on).
- Shaving does not make hair thicker or coarser — a common myth.
- Medication options after assessment: regulating contraceptive pills, spironolactone (not with pregnancy), and eflornithine cream which slows facial hair regrowth (visible by 8 weeks, wears off when stopped).
- In PCOS: weight loss gradually reduces hirsutism and improves treatment response.
See also the full treatment page: Laser hair removal — options, evidence and expected timelines.
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