Hypertrichosis can be described as too much of hair growth for the age and sex of the person. Excess growth of hair can be seen either in specific part of the body or in overall body. This condition is not the same as hirsutism wherein excess hair growth in women occurs due to increased male hormone in the body. But in hypertrichosis excessive hair growth is common in both genders. This condition is either present from birth or for some people it is acquired later. Hypertrichosis can be caused due to genetic mutation or defective genes which are inherited by birth. For others it can develop due to metabolic disorders or over exposure to certain chemicals. Treatment for hypertrichosis can be done through laser therapy, chemical approach and simply repeated shaving.
Types :
Basically hypertrichosis can either be localized (limited to specific areas) or generalized (full body). Similarly it can be present at birth or it can be acquired later.
Hypertrichosis can be classified into 3 types based on the nature of hair growth.
- Lanugo hairs are silky long hairs that are found on infants and would shed when the embryo attains growth of 7 month or 8 month.
- Vellus hairs are one that develops on the baby after birth. They are short and non-pigmented and are found throughout the body excepting the scalp.
- Terminal hairs are rough in structure and are highly pigmented. These are hairs found in the scalp and eyebrows and on the groin and underarm regions.
1. Congenital Generalized Type :
This kind is inherited by birth and the baby would have silky long hairs throughout the body except hands and feet. Hair growth would be excess on the face and ears. Often hair growth would continue to remain for the rest of their life.
2. Acquired Generalized Type :