Adolescents tend to have very light brown skin-like hair growth before puberty. But some teenagers are upset to notice a little more hair on their face like teenagers. Because the position, color and width of these hairs are much like the beards and mustaches of many boys. Such unwanted hair on girls is called hirsutism in the language of medicine. Such hair can be on the armpits, chest or other places of the teenager. The hairs on the hands and feet of some people are masculine. This masculine hair on the body of girls is due to the presence of excess male hormone androgen and its increased effectiveness.

In this condition not only extra masculine hair but also some other changes in the body can be seen. Such asexcessive foul smelling sweat, masculine appearance in body structure, weight gain, black spots on neck etc. Menstruation is not normal in most of the adolescents affected by this problem.

Symptoms of unwanted hair growth in girls may include:

1. Polycystic ovary syndrome, II. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, 3. Cushing’s syndrome

4. Excessive presence of growth hormone, 5. Ovarian or adrenal gland tumors, 6. Insulin resistance, 6. Hypothyroidism, 6. Obesity.

Unwanted hair can be a symptom of a permanent hormonal disorder, which can lead to better results if treated in a timely manner. Hormonal experts try to reach the initial idea about the height, weight, excess hair growth, menstrual history, etc. of the affected teenager. Testosterone hormones need to be measured, in some cases thyroid hormone, LH, FSH, prolactin, cortisol etc. hormones may also need to be measured.

Trying to lose weight is very important. Long-term treatment is required to correct hormonal imbalances. Many modern methods of hair treatment are effective, but they can be expensive.

Dr. Prince Selim, Assistant Professor, Department of Endocrinology, BSMMU
Formula – the Prothom-alo