All women have facial hair, although it’s usually light in color and fine in texture. Some women, however, have darker and coarser facial hair. If you fall in the latter category, you might wonder what causes excessive facial hair in women and 一 more importantly 一 what can you do about it.
Below, our specialists at Laser Bar and Spa explain the most common culprits behind facial hair in women and how facial laser hair removal can eliminate unwanted hair.
Hirsutism refers to excessive coarse hair in women, especially in the face and lower abdomen. It affects up to 10% of women and is mostly caused by an increase in androgens (male sex hormones). This can create an increase in dark, coarse hair on the upper lip, submental area, and even on the neck.
The following can contribute to an increase in androgens:
PCOS accounts for 75% of all hirsutism cases. If you have PCOS, benign cysts grow on the ovaries, which can create a host of unwanted symptoms, from increased hair growth on the face to fatigue, decreased fertility, and irregular periods. Women can work with their OBGYNs to manage the symptoms of PCOS by balancing hormones.
Your adrenal glands make hormones, and any disorder that affects these glands can impact your hormones. Examples of adrenal gland disorders include Cushing’s disease and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Some medications, such as cyclosporine, testosterone supplements, and anabolic steroids, can increase androgens in women.
But sometimes there isn’t a clear reason to explain why you’ve developed hirsutism. This is called idiopathic hirsutism, and it’s often chronic.
Hormonal shifts, particularly those during pregnancy and menopause, can cause an increase in facial hair growth. When you’re pregnant, higher estrogen levels extend the growth phase of your body hair, and that affects the hair on your head 一 hello, luscious locks! 一 and the hair on your face. Typically, the hair changes related to pregnancy return to normal once your hormones regulate after childbirth. Menopause can also contribute to hirsutism, and if you’re struggling with unwanted coarse hair, laser treatments can help eliminate it.
Genetics and cultural background also play a role in facial hair growth. According to research published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, Indian women had the most facial hair (upper lip), while Japanese women tended to have the least.
Regardless of the reason behind your increased facial hair, there’s no denying that excessive facial hair can take a toll on your self-esteem. Facial laser hair removal is effective in removing facial hair, restoring your confidence, and creating smooth skin.
If you’re getting ready for facial hair laser therapy at our spa, keep these tips in mind:
Gone are the days of painful waxing sessions, daily plucking habits, and red, ingrown hairs. It’s time to say hello to a smooth, hair-free face! Facial laser therapy can help you eliminate those embarrassing hairs for good, and it’s our mission to help you achieve your hair-free goals!
To learn more about facial laser therapy, contact our Midtown Manhattan spa to schedule a consultation today. We’re located in Herald Square in New York City, New York.
