It is worth noting that facial hair growth is normal. However, in excess growth (hirsutism), facial hair growth in the androgen-sensitive areas, such as the mustache area, is a prominent sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS facial hair is a concern for most women.
Unwanted facial hair growth is one of the side effects of PCOS that catch many women off guard and cause self-esteem issues that may lead to depression. Here's why it happens and what you can do about it.
Hirsutism is the excessive growth of facial or body hair on women. Hirsutism and unwanted PCOS facial hair are very common with polycystic ovary syndrome. Hirsutism can be seen as coarse, dark hair that may appear on the face, chest, abdomen, back, upper arms, or upper legs.
You may develop coarse, dark hair growth on your upper lip, chin, chest, abdomen or back instead of the fine hair sometimes referred to as “peach fuzz” that commonly grows in those areas.
Hairy arms and legs are not usually the result of abnormal hormone patterns, but rather reflect the woman's family or ethnic background. "Midline" hair growth (e.g. upper lip, chin, abdomen, between the breasts and/or buttocks) is more suspicious for PCOS.
In women, androgens are produced by the ovaries or the adrenal glands. But some women with hirsutism don't have PCOS or any other cause that can be found. Their hormone levels are normal, and so are their menstrual cycles. These women may have been born with hair follicles that are more sensitive to androgens.
Common symptoms of PCOS include: irregular periods or no periods at all. difficulty getting pregnant (because of irregular ovulation or no ovulation) excessive hair growth (hirsutism) – usually on the face, chest, back or buttocks.
Women of every race and ethnicity can have PCOS. It's common for women to find out they have PCOS when they have trouble getting pregnant, but it often begins soon after the first menstrual period, as young as age 11 or 12. It can also develop in the 20s or 30s.
Often PCOS is triggered by the overproduction of androgens. Women with hirsutism will often experience the excess growth of hair on the face, neck, chest, back, and toes. Shaving and waxing are just a few ways women with PCOS deal with their excessive facial hair.
In PCOS, excess androgen in the female triggers the same process as in teenage boys and once hairs turn terminal they cannot return to their vellus state. Your excess body and facial hair might respond to some hormone treatment, but this will only slow hair growth, not stop it.
Lea Michele
The Glee star has opened up about being diagnosed with PCOS after experiencing severe acne and fluctuating weight. “The side effects [of PCOS] can be brutal — like weight gain and bad skin,” Lea shared with Health. “I went to a great doctor, and the minute she looked at me, she was like, 'Oh, you have PCOS.
Vellus hair (peach fuzz) is fine, short hair that grows all over your body, including your face, stomach, arms and legs. Vellus hair helps regulate your body temperature and protects your skin. Excess vellus hair growth can be a sign of some health conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome.
Some people have more peach fuzz than others, and some medical conditions like PCOS or Cushing's Syndrome can cause more facial vellus hair to grow, or for it to darken.
Typically caused by a boost in male hormones called androgens, hirsutism can be a symptom of different health conditions. So, if you notice a sudden growth of facial hair, it is highly recommended to consult with a doctor. Here are a few of the most common causes of hirsutism.
Smoother Skin
The trapped oil and dirt in the peach fuzz entertains acne-causing bacteria. Shaving helps get rid of these trapped bacteria and oils. It prevents acne and leaves the skin plumper, smoother, and bouncier. There's a noticeable difference in the skin complexion as it lightens the darker areas.
From shaving, to laser, to waxing, there are a variety of options available to address excessive PCOS hair growth. However, there's no question that PCOS waxing is the best way to go.
However, their PCOS hormonal imbalance does not change with age, so they may continue to have symptoms of PCOS. Also, the risks of PCOS-related health problems, such as diabetes, stroke, and heart attack, increase with age. These risks may be higher in women with PCOS than those without.
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. There's evidence that genetics play a role. Several other factors, most importantly obesity, also play a role in causing PCOS: Higher levels of male hormones called androgens: High androgen levels prevent your ovaries from releasing eggs, which causes irregular menstrual cycles.
To receive a diagnosis of PCOS, you must meet two of the following criteria: irregular ovulation, which is usually indicated by an irregular menstrual cycle or a lack of a cycle. signs of increased androgen levels or a blood test confirming you have increased levels. multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
Signs and symptoms
There is no simple diagnostic test for PCOS. Women will often have a range of different symptoms, which can include: excessive hair on face, chest, stomach or back. scalp hair loss.
Symptoms: there are no noticeable symptoms in around half of women with the condition, and there is usually no vaginal soreness or itching. Symptoms may include a greyish-white, thin and watery vaginal discharge with a strong fishy smell, especially after sex.