There are 4 main types of hypertrichosis: 1. Hirsutism refers to an increase in hair that is not androgen dependent and can be caused by excessive intake of certain medications (sodium phenytoin, cyclosporine, cortisone, penicillamine) or by other diseases (delayed cutaneous porphyria, thyroid disease, metastatic tumors, malnutrition/anorexia nervosa. 2. Hirsutism is characterized by excessive terminal hair on androgen-dependent parts of the female body (e.g., upper lip, chin, chest). Hirsutism is often caused by excess androgens and can be associated with acne, androgenetic alopecia and acanthosis nigricans. The most common endocrine cause is polycystic ovarian disease, with a prevalence of about 1-4% among women of childbearing age. Rapid onset of hirsutism or other signs of hyperandrogenism suggest the need for hormone level measurements, including free testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), to rule out androgen-secreting tumors. 3. The flap used for reconstructive surgery may have excessive hair that interferes with normal function. Therefore, the flap must be dehaired before surgery. For example, the muscular flap used for urethral reconstruction can cause urethral obstruction, calcification or infection. 4. Most people undergo hair removal treatment mainly for cosmetic purposes. For some patients, excessive facial or body hair is frustrating. The most common areas treated for women include the armpits, bikini line, lower legs, and face, while for men the areas treated include the chest, back, shoulders, neck, and ears.