Hypertrichosis is a medical condition that causes excessive growth of hair in areas where hair does not normally grow. It may be present over the entire body, or you could have it in only one or more areas. Some individuals will be born with the condition and others will develop it later on in life.

Congenital Hypertrichosis is very rare. In fact, it is so rare that there have been only 50 verified cases since the Middle Ages. It occurs because of a flaw during pregnancy. A fetus is covered with lanugo which is a very fine layer of hair that falls off during the eighth month. In these cases, it does not fall off but continues to grow. In a serve case known as Congenital Hypertrichosis Terminalis, the hair becomes colored as well and remains there after birth.

Another variation of Congenital Hypertrichosis is called Naevoid Hypertrichosis. Here, the individuals will have excessive hair growth in only one area of the body.

Acquired Hypertrichosis

Acquired Hypertrichosis occurs after birth at any point. The symptoms may include unpigmented vellus hair or pigmented terminal hair. The excessive hair may cover the entire body, or it could be localized to one area.

What Causes It: Hypertrichosis?

Although there are no for sure answers to that question, many believe the condition to be a genetic disorder. It can be considered inherited or has been known to just happen due to the mutation of genes. Some are cancer related which occurs after individuals have cancer. Some individuals believe that it can be caused by drugs or metabolic disorders as well.

Treatments For Hypertrichosis

The best treatments available include:

Shaving regularly

Depilatories which are hair removal creams can also be used as long as the skin is free from cuts or open sores. Check for allergic reactions before use.

Bleaching products can help to lessen the look of these hairs but make sure to check for chemical reactions.

Electrolysis and laser hair removal techniques may also be helpful. Here, a laser will actually kill the follicle stopping it from being able to grow hair. Some at home kids are effective, but professional service is the best.

Hypertrichosis is a condition that really does not have a cure so to speak. Hair removal techniques can help though. Although the best treatments are those that are the most costly, they are likely to provide the most satisfaction here.