In simple terms, hirsutism is a condition where women develop excess, coarse, and dark hair in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back; affecting different kinds of women, from the elderly to young adults.
Luckily, there are some things you can do or steps you can take to properly handle it. Here are 3 tips for you.
Medical Options
Modern medicine offers a variety of solid solutions for combating hirsutism and consulting a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist or endocrinologist, is one of the first things you want to do.
They will conduct a thorough evaluation -blood tests, hormone level assessments, medical history review, etc – to identify the specific cause of your hirsutism. Then, they can recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your situation.
For example, anti-androgen drugs like spironolactone are often prescribed to block the effects of androgens (male hormones) in the body, reducing excess hair growth.
Lifestyle Changes
Beyond medical interventions, your daily choices can significantly impact hirsutism, for better or worse. For example, frequently consuming high sugar and processed foods means insulin resistance and worsens hirsutism, while a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help regulate hormones and thus the condition.
You want to:
- Focus on foods rich in fiber, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, and limit sugar and processed foods
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week
- Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to reduce stress
- Losing even a small amount of weight
Emotional Support
Hirsutism isn’t just a physical challenge; it’s an emotional one too and many women with hirsutism may experience feelings of embarrassment, self-consciousness, and social anxiety in a way that ultimately affects their quality of life.
Unfortunately, the emotional impact of it all can be profound, making people feel like they don’t conform to societal beauty standards or norms and so it’s wise to seek emotional support.
Joining support groups or online communities for women with hirsutism can provide a safe space to share experiences and receive emotional support. Consider talking to a therapist or counselor if you’re struggling with self-esteem or emotional distress related to hirsutism as well; cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly helpful.
You also want to talk to trusted friends and family about your condition because their understanding and support can make a significant difference in how you feel about yourself. Similarly, prioritize self-care activities that elevate your self-esteem and body confidence whether it’s pampering routines, hobbies you enjoy, or positive affirmations.
Hirsutism is a multifaceted challenge that encompasses both physical and emotional aspects. Still, by addressing the condition through medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and seeking emotional support, there’s no reason why you can’t effectively manage both the physical and emotional parts of hirsutism.
