Why Do I Have More Facial Hair? Causes & Solutions

Unveiling the Causes of Increased Facial Hair

Understanding the root cause of increased facial hair is the first step towards effective management. Several factors can contribute to this phenomenon.

Genetic Predisposition

Genetics play a significant role in determining hair growth patterns. If your mother, sister, or other female relatives have experienced increased facial hair, there's a higher chance you might too. This is often referred to as genetic hirsutism, where the skin and hair follicles are simply more sensitive to normal levels of androgen hormones. While this sensitivity can be distressing it may not necessarily indicate an underlying hormonal imbalance.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances, particularly an excess of androgens like testosterone, can trigger increased facial hair growth in women. When the levels of testosterone increase, facial hair tends to grow thicker and become more visible. This can occur due to several conditions:

1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It often involves irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and elevated androgen levels. Besides excess facial hair, PCOS can also contribute to thinning scalp hair, acne, and weight gain.
2. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): CAH refers to a group of inherited disorders affecting the adrenal glands' ability to produce certain hormones, sometimes resulting in excess androgens.
3. Cushing's Syndrome: Cushing's syndrome occurs when your body is exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol for a long time. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including increased facial hair.

• Hormone Level Testing: If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, it's crucial to consult with a doctor and get your hormone levels checked. This typically involves blood tests to measure testosterone, DHEAS, FSH, LH, prolactin, TSH, insulin, and cortisol. These tests are often done on the 2nd or 3rd day of your menstrual cycle for the most accurate readings.

Steroid Use

The use of steroidal medications, either prescribed or illicitly obtained, can also lead to increased facial hair growth. These medications, especially anabolic steroids, mimic the effects of androgens, leading to hormonal imbalances and subsequent hair growth. Even topical steroid creams can sometimes cause this, especially with prolonged use. Always consult a dermatologist before using any steroid cream on the face.

Managing and Removing Facial Hair: Exploring Your Options

Fortunately, there are various options available for managing and removing unwanted facial hair. Each method comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Waxing: A Temporary Solution

Waxing involves applying hot wax to the skin and then quickly removing it along with the hair. While waxing can provide relatively long-lasting results compared to shaving (as it pulls hair from the root), it is often not recommended for the face due to its potential side effects. Hot wax can cause skin irritation, ingrown hairs, acne breakouts, hyperpigmentation, and even damage to the delicate facial skin.

• Considerations: If you've been waxing your face for years without any issues, you may continue. However, it's crucial to reduce the frequency and avoid waxing altogether if you experience any adverse reactions.

Threading: Precision and Control

Threading is a hair removal technique using twisted cotton threads to pluck hairs from the follicle. It's more precise than waxing, allowing for shaping eyebrows and removing hair from specific areas. It's also generally considered less irritating than waxing.

• Potential Issues: Like waxing, threading can cause ingrown hairs and acne breakouts in some individuals. Make sure the practitioner uses a clean, new thread for each session to minimize the risk of infection.

Bleaching: Disguising Unwanted Hair

Bleaching doesn't remove hair, but rather lightens its color, making it less noticeable. It's a relatively quick and inexpensive option.

• Chemical Irritation: Bleach contains chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. Limit application time to 5-8 minutes, especially if you have darker skin, to prevent a golden-colored effect that can make the hair more visible.

Hair Removal Creams: A Convenient but Potentially Irritating Choice

Depilatory creams contain chemicals that dissolve the hair shaft, allowing it to be wiped away. These creams are convenient and painless but are not generally recommended for facial hair due to the sensitive nature of the face.

• Strong Chemicals: The strong chemicals in these creams can cause allergic reactions, irritation, and even chemical burns. Avoid these especially on the face.

Shaving and Trimming: Quick and Easy Maintenance

Shaving or trimming involves using a razor or trimmer to cut the hair at the skin's surface. It's a quick and painless method but provides the shortest-lasting results.

• Myth Debunked: Contrary to popular belief, shaving does not cause hair to grow back thicker or darker. This is a misconception; the hair only appears thicker as it grows back with a blunt edge. Consider using a trimmer to remove hair as it does not directly contact the skin and reduces chances of irritation.

Laser Hair Reduction: A Long-Term Investment

Laser hair reduction uses concentrated light beams to damage hair follicles, inhibiting future growth. It’s a long-term solution for reducing unwanted hair, but it typically requires multiple sessions.

• Reduction, Not Removal: It's important to note that laser hair treatment typically results in reduction, not permanent removal. You may need maintenance sessions to keep hair growth at bay. Laser hair reduction works best for individuals with dark hair and light skin. However, advanced lasers are increasingly effective on a wider range of skin and hair types. It is best to consult with an experienced dermatologist when deciding on this type of hair removal.

When to See a Doctor

It's essential to consult a doctor or dermatologist if you experience sudden or excessive facial hair growth, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms like irregular periods, acne, weight gain, or changes in voice. These could indicate an underlying medical condition requiring diagnosis and treatment.

Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Adjustments: A Holistic Approach

While not a replacement for medical treatment or professional hair removal, certain natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments may help manage facial hair growth. Consult a dermatologist to ascertain their applicability to your situation. These may include:

• Spearmint Tea: Some studies suggest that drinking spearmint tea may help reduce androgen levels.
• Healthy Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular exercise can help regulate hormone levels and improve overall health.
• Stress Management: High stress levels can also contribute to hormonal imbalances, making stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing beneficial.

Conclusion

Managing facial hair growth in women often involves a combination of understanding the underlying cause and choosing the most appropriate hair removal method. Genetics and hormonal imbalances are major contributing factors, while steroid use can also play a role. While there is no permanent cure for hirsutism, multiple management strategies including professional dermatological treatments help control facial hair. It is crucial to consult with a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions and discuss the best course of action for your specific needs. Ultimately, self-acceptance and embracing your natural beauty are equally important in navigating this common concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can shaving cause hair to grow back thicker and darker?

No, shaving does not cause hair to grow back thicker or darker. The hair only appears thicker as it grows back with a blunt edge.

Q: What are the best hormonal tests to ask for if I suspect a hormonal imbalance?

Ask your doctor about testing your levels of testosterone, DHEAS, FSH, LH, prolactin, TSH, insulin, and cortisol.

Q: Is laser hair removal a permanent solution for facial hair?

Laser hair reduction typically results in long-term reduction, not permanent removal. You may need maintenance sessions.

Q: Are hair removal creams safe for facial use?

Hair removal creams may not be safe for facial use. Strong chemicals in these creams can cause allergic reactions, irritation, and even chemical burns.

Q: What home remedies can I try to manage facial hair?

Some studies suggest that drinking spearmint tea may help reduce androgen levels. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and practicing stress management techniques may also be beneficial.