Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Hirsutism is the growth of coarse, dark hair on the face, chest, belly or back in women, in areas where men typically grow hair. It is often linked to hormones, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause.
Signs and symptoms
- Coarse, dark hair on the upper lip, chin, jaw, chest or belly
- Sometimes acne, irregular periods or scalp hair thinning
How we treat it
- Looking for the cause, which may include blood tests and coordination with your gynecologist or endocrinologist
- Oral medicines such as spironolactone or combined birth control pills, when appropriate; spironolactone must be avoided during pregnancy
- Laser hair removal for long-term reduction
Where it is offered
Offered at all of our offices.
Q&A
How long before medicine works?
Hormonal treatments take about 6 months to show a clear difference, because hair grows in cycles.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
It gives long-lasting reduction for many people. Some touch-up sessions may be needed, especially when hormones are involved.
Who you can see
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emily Tongdee, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Downtown Brooklyn
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Grace Jarrett, PA-C
Physician assistant · Downtown Brooklyn
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Karen Chen, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Paige Yurick, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Christine Sacco, FNP-C
Nurse practitioner · Palm Beach Gardens