Hirsutism Treatment: What Works and How to Choose

If you’re dealing with excess facial or body hair, you’re not alone. Hirsutism affects many people, and the good news is there are several ways to tame it. Below you’ll find the most common treatments, how they work, and what to think about before you start.

Medical Options

Prescription meds target the hormones that cause hair growth. The first‑line drug is spironolactone. It blocks androgen receptors, slowing hair growth after a few months. Doctors usually start with a low dose and increase it as needed. Keep in mind it can raise potassium levels, so regular blood tests are a must.

Another popular choice is combined oral contraceptives. They lower androgen production and can improve acne at the same time. Not every birth‑control pill works the same for hair, so ask your provider which formulation is best for hirsutism.

If spironolactone isn’t enough, finasteride or dutasteride may be added. These drugs block the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a key driver of hair growth. They’re mainly used for men but can be prescribed to women under careful supervision.

For a topical approach, eflornithine cream (Vaniqa) slows hair growth on the face. Apply it twice a day and expect results after about 8‑12 weeks. It’s a good add‑on if you want a non‑systemic option.

Physical Hair‑Removal Methods

Medical treatments curb new growth, but you’ll still have existing hair to remove. Laser hair removal is the most popular long‑term method. It targets pigment in the hair shaft, damaging the follicle. You’ll need several sessions spaced about a month apart, and the best results happen on darker hair and lighter skin.

Electrolysis is another permanent option. It uses a tiny needle to deliver electric current into each follicle. It works on any hair color, but the process can be time‑consuming because each follicle is treated individually.

For quick fixes, waxing or depilatory creams remove hair at the surface. They’re cheap and easy, but the hair will grow back within a week or two. If you have sensitive skin, test a small area first to avoid irritation.

Sometimes a combination works best. For example, start a course of spironolactone while getting laser sessions. The medication slows new growth, and the laser clears what’s already there, giving you faster, longer‑lasting results.

Before you begin any treatment, ask yourself a few questions: Do you have any health conditions that limit hormone therapy? Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant? How much time and money can you invest? A quick chat with a dermatologist or endocrinologist can sort out which path fits your lifestyle.

Remember, patience is key. Hormonal meds often need 3‑6 months to show visible changes, and laser or electrolysis requires multiple appointments. Stick with the plan, track your progress, and adjust with your doctor if you’re not seeing the results you want.

Bottom line: there’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer for hirsutism. By mixing the right prescription, topical cream, and hair‑removal technique, you can get the smooth skin you’re after without needless hassle.