Polish Journal of Public Health

Original Article, Pol J Public Health, Vol. 134 (2024): 55-64

Barbara Nieradko-Iwanicka¹, Natalia Abramek²

¹ Hygiene and Epidemiology Department, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
² Students’ Scientific Association at the Hygiene and Epidemiology Department, Medical University of Lublin, Poland

 10.12923/2083-4829/2024-0013

© 2024 Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonComercial-No Derivs licence (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/)

Abstract

Introduction. Hirsutism is a disorder manifested by excessive hair growth in the telogen phase in androgen-dependent areas: on the face, lower back, thighs and breasts in women with hormonal disorders. Hypertrichosis is excessive hair covering the entire skin surface or limited to certain areas of the skin, independent of androgens. It may occur in both men and women and is not limited to androgen-dependent areas. Hormonal disorders are not observed in hypertrichosis. It may be genetically determined or caused by medications taken by the patient: minoxidil or cyclosporine A. Hypertrichosis most often occurs on the arms and lower legs.

Aim. The aim of the study was to identify the therapeutic and skincare products used in hirsutism and hypertrichosis available on the Polish market.
Material and methods. In 2022 and 2023, therapeutic and skincare products used in hirsutism and hypertrichosis available in 10 randomly selected pharmacies and 10 drugstores in the Lubelskie Voivodeship in Poland were analyzed.

Results. Together 53 therapeutic and skincare products used in hirsutism and hypertrichosis were found. The therapeutic products were available with doctor’s prescription only (Rp.), while the skincare products were available without prescription, like cosmetics. In the analyzed preparations for hirsutism, the most frequently used active substances are dienogest and cyproterone acetate. 

Conclusion. The most commonly used form of drugs in hirsutism are tablets, and in hypertrichosis – foams that facilitate the removal of unwanted hair. The new promising formulas for treatment of hirsutism and hypertrichosis contain eflornithine, acyclovir, licorice and vitamin D.

Keywords: hirsutism, hypertrichosis, skincare products, therapeutic products.