Hirsutism
Hirsutism can affect more than just appearance, it can impact how you feel. At Anna Hoo Clinic, we're here to help you take control with safe, tailored solutions.
What is Hirsutism?
Hirsutism is a condition characterised by excessive, coarse hair growth in areas where women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) typically have minimal or fine hair. Common areas include the face, chest, abdomen, and back. While it is not physically harmful, it may be a sign of an underlying hormonal imbalance and often affects emotional well-being.
Hirsutism affects approximately 5% to 10% of women and AFAB individuals of childbearing age, with over 40% experiencing it at some point in their lives. Though not a direct health risk, the condition can lead to anxiety, self-consciousness, and depression due to societal expectations and appearance-related stress.
At Anna Hoo Clinic, we take a holistic approach to hirsutism, addressing both the underlying causes and visible symptoms through personalised medical and aesthetic care.
Reveal Smoother, Balanced Skin With Personalised Care
How does Hirsutism works?
Hirsutism is a condition characterised by excessive, coarse hair growth in areas where women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) typically have minimal or fine hair. Common areas include the face, chest, abdomen, and back. While it is not physically harmful, it may be a sign of an underlying hormonal imbalance and often affects emotional well-being.
Hirsutism affects approximately 5% to 10% of women and AFAB individuals of childbearing age, with over 40% experiencing it at some point in their lives. Though not a direct health risk, the condition can lead to anxiety, self-consciousness, and depression due to societal expectations and appearance-related stress.
At Anna Hoo Clinic, we take a holistic approach to hirsutism, addressing both the underlying causes and visible symptoms through personalised medical and aesthetic care.
What are the Symptoms and Causes of Hirsutism?
Causes of Hirsutism
Excess androgens or increased sensitivity of hair follicles can trigger unwanted hair growth.
The most common cause of hirsutism, PCOS affects hormone regulation and often leads to elevated androgen levels.
Hormonal changes after menopause can lead to increased facial hair.
High cortisol levels can interfere with hormone balance and hair growth
A family history of hirsutism or PCOS can increase your likelihood of developing the condition.
Drugs such as anabolic steroids or testosterone therapies can cause or worsen hirsutism.
Diagnosis & Tests
A healthcare provider will begin with a physical examination and a review of your symptoms. The Ferriman-Gallwey scale may be used to score hair growth across various areas of the body.
- Blood tests to measure hormone levels
- Ultrasound to assess the ovaries and uterus
- Imaging to evaluate adrenal glands if necessary
How is Hirsutism Treated
Hirsutism is treatable, and options may include:
Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss can significantly lower androgen levels and reduce hair growth. Even a modest weight reduction of 5% can have a positive impact.
Medications:
- Birth Control Pills: Hormonal contraceptives help regulate menstrual cycles and lower androgen levels.
- Androgen-Suppressing Medications: Drugs such as spironolactone (Aldactone®) and finasteride (Proscar®) can lower androgen levels.
- Low-Dose Steroids: Prescribed if the adrenal glands are overactive, they can help manage symptoms.
- Insulin-Lowering Medications: This includes metformin, which can aid those with insulin resistance, though it comes with potential side effects.
- Eflornithine Cream (Vaniqa®): A topical treatment that slows down hair growth.
Hair Removal Options:
- Electrolysis: Permanent hair removal by destroying hair follicles with electrical currents.
- Laser Hair Removal: Effective for destroying pigment cells in hair follicles using laser heat, particularly effective for those with darker hair.
- Home Remedies: Common methods include:
- Shaving: A quick method that requires regular upkeep.
- Bleaching: Lightens hair but may cause skin irritation.
Waxing and Plucking: Hair is removed from the root, effective but potentially painful.
When to call a doctor
See a healthcare provider if you notice sudden hair growth in unusual areas, especially if it is accompanied by acne, irregular periods, or voice changes. Early diagnosis is key to effective management.
At Anna Hoo Clinic, we understand that hirsutism can be more than just a cosmetic issue. It can affect your confidence, mental well-being, and daily life.
That’s why we offer compassionate, personalised care focused on your goals and comfort. Whether you’re managing a hormonal condition or simply seeking smoother skin, we’re here to support your journey with real solutions.
When hair growth starts affecting how you feel, it's time to explore your options.
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Meet Our Doctors
Our dedicated doctors are here to guide you through every step of your treatment, ensuring it is tailored to your individual needs. Your care is our primary focus, and we strive to provide a supportive and personalised experience throughout your journey with us.
Dr. Anna Hoo (MD)
Medical Director
Certified Aesthetic Practitioner
Dr. Anna Hoo, founder and medical director of the Anna Hoo Clinic, is a leader in medical wellness and aesthetic management. Her expertise encompasses injectables, combination therapy, and medical lasers, all while remaining dedicated to providing exceptional care and achieving outstanding results for her patients.
Dr. William Hoo (MD)
Certified Medical Aesthetic Practitioner
Dr. William Hoo is the leading aesthetic physician at the Anna Hoo Clinic in Bangsar, focusing on medical wellness, facial aesthetics, energy-based devices, and injectables. His keen eye for detail and artistry allows him to effectively enhance his patients' natural beauty.
Dr. Ian Tan (MD)
Certified Medical Aesthetic Practitioner
Dr. Ian Tan is the leading aesthetic physician at the Anna Hoo Clinic in Petaling Jaya, specialising in body sculpting, fat reduction, and skin tightening. He offers innovative solutions that enhance body contours and boost confidence.
Dr. Joyce Hii (MD)
Certified Aesthetic Practitioner
Dr. Joyce Hii established herself in non-surgical facial rejuvenation and medical wellness treatments. With a holistic approach to patient care, she seamlessly integrates wellness and aesthetic therapies to deliver transformative results.
Dr. Elaine Koh (MD)
Medical Doctor
Dr. Elaine earned her medical degree from International Medical University in 2015. Her extensive experience in mental health complements her expertise in physical wellness, allowing her to take a holistic approach to patient care.
Why Choose Anna Hoo Clinic
Personalised Care and Attention
We understand that each patient is unique. Our treatments are tailored to meet your personal needs, ensuring effective and satisfying outcomes.
Advanced Facilities
We use up-to-date technology and equipment to ensure effective treatments. Our facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all procedures.
Qualified and Certified Professionals
Our team consists of skilled and licensed doctors dedicated to providing excellent care. With years of practice in the field, you can trust that you are in knowledgeable hands.
Safe and Effective Treatments
Your safety is our priority. We follow strict protocols to ensure that all treatments are safe and effective. Our methods are scientifically validated and supported by research.
Reliable and Consistent Results
We use evidence-based treatments to ensure reliable and consistent results. You can expect methods that are scientifically proven to deliver the desired outcomes.
What Our Clients Say About Us
Dr. Anna is a very kind and understanding doctor, never judgmental. She put patients' need above hers. Dr. Ian is very gentle when administrating treatments for patients. The staffs are very accommodating. The place here is very clean and calm musics are played. There are nutritionists here too. This clinic offer not only aesthetic treatments, but also evaluate patients' dietary needs and suggest positive alteration to improve patients' wellbeing.
Cherrilynn Coleann
Me and family have been with Dr. anna for 9 years. She is a Good doctor and professional doctor. She has build my confidence and wellbeing. The clinic not only offering aesthetic service but also holistic wellness i.e Hormone and allergy test. I am a happy and beautiful inside and out now. Thank you Doctors and the whole team. 😊
Elaine Kok
Clean and comfortable environment in waiting area and treatment room. Nice music while waiting for doctor. Staffs here are friendly and makes me feel welcomed. Very satisfied with my experience in this clinic.
Dawn Ng
Dr. Anna, Kah Hong and the team has been providing good service and professional advice regarding our body health needs. All the staff are very friendly too. Thanks for the excellent service!
Ong J
I have been with Anna Hoo Clinic for more than 10 years. Dr. Anna is a very passionate and professional Doctor. I have seen so much improvement in my well-being as well as my skin. Her skill was excellent. For those who is in search of a professional aesthetic doctor or to improve your wellness, this is the place. Highly recommended 😘
Saydear Teoh
Thanks to Dr.Anna and team for all your professional advise and guidance. We are happy to follow Dr.Anna for the passed 5 years.