Sometimes, hormones can go haywire, and it leads to the growth of male pattern body and facial hair in females. This is called hirsutism, and it is often comorbid with other adrenal disorders, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. According to Medscape, hirsutism effects about 10% of women. This extra hair growth can make women feel depressed, unfeminine and unattractive. Luckily, there are ways to reduce the appearance of unsightly hair growth, and these women can hope to have smooth skin again someday.

Laser Hair Removal

Women with hirsutism are often excellent candidates for laser hair removal. Because their hair is usually coarse and dark, the laser can easily find and treat each follicle. Plan to treat each area at least six times, and expect to have follow-up sessions in the future to take care of any stubborn strays or new growth. Laser works best for large areas of treatment, like legs and your abdomen, but it is also effective for the removal of hair on the face.

Medicated Lotions

Check your local drug store for lotions that inhibit hair growth. Each person is different, so a certain brand of lotion may have different results for one person than another. If you find these options don't work for you, talk to your doctor. They can write you a prescription for a lotion that contains high concentrations of hair inhibitor that works especially well on faces.

Electrolysis

After you've received your recommended number of laser hair removal sessions, you may still have a few hairs that just won't give up on their fight to stay alive. Make an appointment to get electrolysis. This method targets specific hairs, using a tiny needle with an electrical pulse. It's perfect for treating small areas, like eyebrows. Each hair may require a few treatments to achieve full clearance.

Exfoliation

No matter your hair removal method, women with hirsutism are prone to ingrown hairs. Prevent these irritating snags by exfoliating. Use a salt scrub, body brush, loofah or glycolic acid to remove the dead skin cells that keep your hair from reaching the surface.

While the above methods can help reduce the hair you have currently, lifestyle changes can help reduce new growth. Fill your diet with fresh produce and protein, and get 30 minutes of exercise each day, to help level the hormones that set off hair growth. Do this and work with professionals like Drs. Young & Wouters and you'll have baby smooth skin in no time.