Have tried depilatory creams and gels to remove it, but they never work. I've read about hirsutism and it sounds like what I have. I'm just wondering if there's anything I can do aside from electrolysis. I am also overweight. About the hair itself, you have covered all the major removal techniques.
Electrolysis is the only permanent method.
The cause is more concerning. You should see an Ob-Gyn with this problem. A pattern of obesity after adolescence and the pattern of symptoms thereafter is consistent with a problem called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome . It is a problem in which excess male hormones are produced in women. Try to think about and write down any other bodily changes you have noticed in yourself, especially breasts, periods, etc.