Colorado Cosmetology Written Practice Exam

Hirsutism refers to:

1. Excessive hair growth / long, coarse, pigmented hair found on the scalp, legs, arms

2. Hair loss from the scalp

3. Thinning hair

4. Unpigmented hair growth

The correct answer is: Excessive hair growth / long, coarse, pigmented hair found on the scalp, legs, arms

Hirsutism is indeed characterized by excessive hair growth, specifically the presence of long, coarse, pigmented hair in areas of the body where women typically would not experience such growth, such as the face, chest, and back. This condition often results from hormonal imbalances, such as an excess of androgens, and is distinct from normal variations in hair growth or other hair loss conditions. The other options relate to different hair-related conditions. For instance, hair loss from the scalp pertains to conditions such as alopecia, while thinning hair is more related to factors like aging or certain health conditions. Unpigmented hair growth refers to fine, light hair often seen in areas typically covered by vellus hair, which does not apply to hirsutism. These conditions fundamentally differ from the excessive growth associated with hirsutism, which is marked by thicker and darker hair.