Hair Loss and Hirsutism in the Elderly

The 2002 document reviewed hair loss and hirsutism in the elderly, detailing causes, evaluation, and treatment options. It noted that nearly half of women over 60 experience unwanted facial hair due to various factors, including hormonal abnormalities. Hair disorders such as graying, telogen effluvium, and androgenetic alopecia were discussed, with telogen effluvium lacking specific therapies but potentially treatable by addressing underlying causes. Treatments for other conditions included topical minoxidil for senescent alopecia and corticosteroids for alopecia areata. Androgenetic alopecia could be treated with finasteride and minoxidil, though their effectiveness in those over 50 was unclear. Hirsutism treatments included androgen-blocking agents or hair removal techniques. The document also described the use of hair removal lasers and Vaniqa cream, which was shown to be effective in reducing unwanted facial hair in clinical trials involving women aged 18 to 80. Additionally, it highlighted the significant global market for hair care products, driven in part by the aging population.