What is hypertrichosis?

Hypertrichosis is the term used for the growth of hair on any part of the body in excess of the amount usually present in persons of the same age, race, and s*x.

It is a very rare condition which patients are either born with or develop later in life.

It excludes excessive hair caused by abnormally high levels of male hormones.

Throughout history those afflicted have been a source of great interest and they have performed in travelling circuses and freak shows.

Two year-old Missclyen, pictured with her father Roland Jimbai, has a condition that causes excessive hair growth

Two year-old Missclyen, pictured with her father Roland Jimbai, has a condition that causes excessive hair growth
Missclyen was born with the rare condition, which causes excessive hair growth on her face

Missclyen was born with the rare condition, which causes excessive hair growth on her face
Missclyen's father said some people can be cruel about her looks, with some calling her the 'animal child'

Missclyen’s father said some people can be cruel about her looks, with some calling her the ‘animal child’
Missclyen is otherwise a healthy little girl, only needing to visit the doctor for check-ups, her father said

Missclyen is otherwise a healthy little girl, only needing to visit the doctor for check-ups, her father said

A Nepalese mother and her children with hypertrichosis, also known as 'werewolf syndrome' (file photo)

A Nepalese mother and her children with hypertrichosis, also known as ‘werewolf syndrome’ (file photo)

Excessive hair may cause cosmetic embarrassment, resulting in a significant emotional burden.

Treatment options are limited, and the results of therapy not always satisfactory.

No single method of hair removal is appropriate for all body locations or patients, and the one adopted will depend on the character, area, and amount of hair growth, as well as on the age of the patient, and their personal preference.

Treatment methods include cosmetic procedures, bleaching, trimming, shaving, plucking, waxing, chemical depilatories, electrosurgical epilation, and hair removal using light sources and lasers.

Laser-assisted hair removal is the most efficient method of long-term hair removal currently available.

Source: American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 

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