Understanding PCOS Facial Hair: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
PCOS facial hair, referred to as Hirsutism, is a visible and distressing symptom commonly affecting women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
This hormonal disorder disrupts the natural balance in women of reproductive age.
It leads to the excessive growth of hair on various parts of the body, particularly the face, chest, upper lip, chin, and cheeks.
Excessive facial hair is one of the prominent indicators of PCOS and significantly impacts a woman’s self-esteem and body image.
Continue reading the article to know more about PCOS facial hair growth.
Causes of PCOS facial hair
Some of the causes of PCOS facial hair include:
Hormonal imbalance
In women with PCOS, hormones are imbalanced in the body, particularly an excess of androgens typically found in higher levels in men.
While women usually have low levels of androgens, PCOS can cause these levels to be higher than normal.
This hormonal imbalance disrupts the normal functioning of the ovaries and can result in facial and body hair growth.
The excess androgens in the body can also impact the hair follicles.
Specifically, the hair follicles that are sensitive to hormones may change.
This can cause the transformation of fine vellus hairs, the hairs that are thin and fine, into terminal hairs.
Terminal hairs are darker, thicker, and coarser, growing faster and becoming more noticeable.
These changes in hair growth patterns due to androgens predominantly occur in specific areas such as the upper lip, beard area, breasts, lower abdomen, inner thighs, and lower back.
The hormonal imbalance in PCOS plays a significant role in these transformations, leading to unwanted facial and body hair development.
Insulin resistance
Insulin is a hormone that is responsible for controlling sugar levels in the blood.
Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, so their bodies have difficulty effectively using insulin.
This can lead to higher insulin levels in the blood, increasing androgen production and contributing to facial hair growth.
Symptoms of PCOS facial hair
Some of the symptoms include:
- Excessive hair growth on the face, particularly on the upper lip, chin, cheeks, and jawline
- Coarse and thick hair in the affected areas
- Darkening of facial hair compared to the hair on the scalp
- Increased hair growth on other body parts, such as the chest, back, and abdomen
How to get rid of PCOS facial hair
Ways to get rid of PCOS facial hair include:
Lifestyle Modifications
Healthy lifestyle changes can significantly improve PCOS symptoms, including Hirsutism.
This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management.
Medications
Oral contraceptives and anti-androgen medications are commonly prescribed to regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce excessive hair growth.
These medications can help control the underlying hormonal issues and gradually minimize facial hair growth.
Topical Treatments
Prescription creams or lotions containing eflornithine can help slow facial hair growth and make it less noticeable.
Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis
These medical procedures offer long-term hair reduction by targeting and destroying hair follicles.
However, multiple sessions are often required for the best results.
Other Hair Removal Techniques
Temporary methods like shaving, waxing, and threading can be used to manage facial hair growth.
These methods do not address the underlying hormonal imbalance but provide short-term solutions.
Takeaway
Hormonal imbalances, excess androgens, and insulin resistance cause PCOS facial hair.
Excessive hair growth on the face, body, and specific areas is a common symptom of PCOS.
Fortunately, various treatment options are available, including lifestyle modifications, medications, topical treatments, and hair removal techniques.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable approach for managing PCOS facial hair and address any underlying hormonal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get rid of facial hair from PCOS?
To manage facial hair caused by PCOS, you can try various options. These include medications prescribed by your doctor, such as oral contraceptives or anti-androgens, topical treatments, or opting for hair removal techniques like shaving or waxing.
Is PCOS facial hair reversible?
PCOS facial hair can be reduced with treatment, but it may not be completely reversible. Managing the underlying hormonal imbalance and using appropriate therapies can help minimize the growth and appearance of facial hair.
Does facial hair stop growing after PCOS?
Facial hair growth may decrease with treatment and hormonal regulation in PCOS, but it may not stop growing. Ongoing management and maintenance are usually necessary to manage facial hair growth effectively.
What causes PCOS facial hair?
PCOS facial hair is primarily caused by hormonal imbalances, precisely an excess of androgens (male hormones) like Testosterone. This hormonal imbalance disrupts the normal functioning of the ovaries and can lead to excessive hair growth on the face and other body parts.
How do I get rid of my PCOS beard?
To manage a PCOS beard, you can consider options such as medications prescribed by a healthcare professional, topical treatments, laser hair removal, or temporary methods like shaving or waxing. Consulting with a healthcare provider will help determine the most suitable approach for your needs.
