There are several health factors behind increased facial hair in some women. It is important to follow the necessary examinations in a specific order, and dermatologists recommend six procedures as the most effective methods for hair removal or treatment.
Increased facial hair in women is most commonly caused by the conversion of vellus hair, which is thin and almost invisible, into terminal hair, which is thicker and fully pigmented, in certain areas of the face and body that are susceptible to the effects of male sex hormones called androgens.
When there is an excess of androgens in circulation or increased hair sensitivity to normal concentrations of androgens in circulation, small and invisible facial hairs become similar to the ones we have on our scalp and eyebrows. This can occur due to endocrine disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome or adrenal gland disorders, explain dermatologists.
In some families, increased facial hair is inherited, sometimes due to a higher presence of androgen receptors in hair follicle structures, so even under normal concentrations of androgens, male pattern hair growth can occur in women without signs of endocrine disorders. It is less common for the use of certain medications to cause generalized hirsutism, not only in the chin region but also in other parts of the body.
In cases of increased facial hair, it is noticeable on the chin, in the sideburn region, on the breasts, in the décolletage region, and along the line from the navel to the pubic region - following the "pattern of male hair growth."
It is necessary to undergo a gynecological examination with an ultrasound examination of the ovaries, hormonal status determination, and consultation with a gynecologist and endocrinologist.
Problems with increased facial hair occur during puberty and adulthood
Causes vary In cases of hyperandrogenism, increased facial hair will be present in the male pattern of hair growth in androgen-dependent areas, while in generalized hirsutism, increased facial hair will be present everywhere.
If there is a genetic predisposition to hairiness, it cannot be prevented, but it can be reduced with appropriate methods.
How to remove hair - the best approach
The best approach to treating hirsutism is to check for an endocrine cause, as proper approach and therapy can prevent and reduce it. Along with specific therapy, a combination of options for permanent hair removal will yield the best results.
The best method for hair removal is permanent laser hair removal: Nd-Yag, alexandrite, diode lasers, not IPL, which should be done every 4-6 weeks. If there is no hormonal imbalance, this method is sufficient. However, if there is a hormonal imbalance, hair destruction alone will not be enough, as new terminal hairs will form under the influence of hormones.
Other options for hair removal include electrolysis, waxing, and depilatory creams, which require more frequent application and provide temporary results. There are also topical preparations that can reduce hairiness but require daily application, according to dermatologists.