skin disorders
Hairiness
Introduction
In men, the amount of body hair varies greatly (see also Overview of Hair Growth ), but very few men are concerned enough about excess hair to see a doctor. In women, the amount of hair that is considered excessive varies depending on ethnic background and culture. Usually, excess body hair is only a cosmetic and psychologic concern. However, the cause sometimes is a serious hormonal disorder, particularly in women who develop masculine characteristics (virilization). Hairiness can be categorized as Hirsutism Hypertrichosis Hirsutismis excessive growth of thick or dark body hair in women in locations that are more typical of male hair growth. Such locations include the face (on the upper lip, chin, or sideburn area), torso (around the nipples or on the chest, lower abdomen, or back), and limbs (on the shoulders or inner thighs). Hypertrichosisis an increase in the amount of hair anywhere on the body in either sex. The excess hair may grow all over the body or only in specific locations. The hair may be fine, light-colored, and downlike or thick, dark, and long. This disorder may be present at birth or develop later. 