Unwanted Hair – Causes and Remedies

Table Of Contents

Unwanted Hair In Women

Unwanted Hair in Men

Treating Unwanted Hair 

Hair Removal

The human body has a unique texture which differs from person to person to a certain extent. Hair is a critical element of our body texture because it not only beautifies our body but also protects our skin from injuries.

Human hair growth differs from individual to individual. However, sometimes hair can develop excessively and create problems. Whether it’s on your face, legs, or other body parts, hair removal can be a frustrating and time-consuming problem. Unwanted hair can be an embarrassing and frustrating issue to deal with, and it’s not always easy to pinpoint the cause. 

While both men and women struggle with unwanted hair, women are more prone to suffer the problem of unwanted hair growth.

This blog will explore the causes of unwanted hair on face and other body parts, different hair removal methods, and tips for managing unwanted hair. So, let’s dive in and find the best solution.

Unwanted Hair In Women

Every female has body hair; however, it could be more apparent in some than others and may include facial hair. Unwanted hair on face in women, when excessive in a male distribution area like upper lip, chin, cheeks etc is known as hirsutism. It is one of the most common medical conditions for unwanted hair on the face in women. 

 Causes:

A change in levels of androgen hormones (male hormones) is the commonest cause of increased facial and body hair in women. Increased levels of androgens or testosterone and conditions causing these rise are more often the culprit for unwanted hair in women. Some other causes are:

• • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS and unwanted facial hair are related to hormonal changes. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), is a set of conditions caused due to the body forming too much of androgens, and is the most prevalent cause of excess body hair in females.
  • Genetics: Some women may have a genetic predisposition to excessive hair growth. 
  • Pregnancy: The hormonal changes in some ladies can trigger unwanted hair during pregnancy. 
  • Medical conditions: Certain conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen secreting tumours, hyperprolactinemia, and hypothyroidism may also lead to unwanted hair on face and other body parts.
  • Medication: Some medications like psychiatric drugs, glucocorticosteroids, anti-seizure medications, immunosuppressive medications and hormonal drugs, such as testosterone can cause unwanted hair growth as a side effect
  • Menopause: Hormonal changes occurring during menopause can also cause hair growth in unexpected places.

Hirsutism in females is commonly defined as thick dark hair growth in male pattern areas like chin, chest, back etc  It is most often caused due to underlying hormonal conditions and requires a doctor to diagnose and assess. Other symptoms signalling a hormonal abnormality are – 

• Hair loss from scalp
• Acne
• Irregular periods

Unwanted Hair in Men

Unwanted hair growth can also affect men. Unwanted hair in men can include the face, chest, back, or other areas. The excessive hair can be a source of embarrassment or self-consciousness for many men. 

Causes: For men too, hormones and genetics are two key causes when it comes to 

• Genetics: Some men may have a genetic predisposition to excessive hair growth which means hair growth is inherited and passed down through families.
• Hormonal imbalance: An increase in androgens, such as testosterone, can lead to unwanted hair on face and other body parts. This condition usually occurs during puberty.
• Cortisol intake: Cortisol is a hormone generated in the body by adrenal glands. Taking steroids orally can cause an excess of cortisol in the body resulting in excessive hair. Certain medications may also stimulate cortisol production, resulting in abundant hair.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Cushing’s disease or acromegaly, can cause an increase in androgen levels and lead to unwanted hair growth.

Treating Unwanted Hair 

Unwanted hair on the face and other body parts due to hormonal imbalance requires a certified doctor to diagnose and treat. Visit a dermatologist today if you suspect hormones to be the cause of your excessive body hair growth. 

• Hormonal management –  In women, unwanted or excessive hair due to hormonal issues, like PCOS and unwanted facial hair or hirsutism is often treated by combining hair removal with hormonal medication like antiandrogen pills or birth control pills. Your doctor will take your blood sample to note your hormonal levels before prescribing medications. Hormonal conditions in men are also treated with similar medication after proper diagnosis and analysis. 
• Eflornithine Cream – This cream is a topical anti-androgen, which can cause thinning and shunting of the hair growth after application. Consult your dermatologist for more information today. 

Hair Removal 

After correction of the hormones, hair removal is a personal choice. Men and women can opt for any of the following hair removal methods according to their convenience. 

• Shaving and Waxing –  Shaving by appropriate razors and waxing using hot or cold wax are some of the safe and cost effective methods of unwanted hair removal that can be done at home. But as they are temporary, they need to be done on a regular basis for a clean look. Plus they can be painful when the hair is thick and dense. These can be the safe methods for the removal of unwanted hair during pregnancy.

• Hair removal creams – Hair removal creams act by dissolving the hair protein and thus removing hair. This method too needs to be repeated frequently and may not be suitable for everyone, especially people with sensitive skin. 

• Epilation-  Epilaters are small trimmer like units that pull the hair by roots. This is a quick hair removal method for smaller areas like facial hair and the results last for more than shaving. Epilation can also be done by using a thread and is called threading. 

• Electroepilation – Electroepilation or electrolysis uses a radiofrequency machine to burn the hair roots and remove the hair permanently. It is one of the oldest permanent unwanted hair removal methods. Make sure that a certified doctor or trained aesthetician is chosen for electroepilation for you, as when done incorrectly it can lead to side effects like scarring. 

• Laser Hair Removal –  Laser hair removal uses the power of laser light to heat up and destroy the hair root resulting in thinning of hair and slowing down of hair growth. This eventually causes permanent removal of unwanted hair. Currently laser hair removal is one of the most efficient and safest methods of unwanted hair removal. Your dermatologist will choose the laser according to your skin and hair type and can tell you about the sessions required for optimum results. 

Wrapping up!

Various factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetics, certain medical conditions, and medications, can cause unwanted hair on face and other body areas.  In women, unwanted hair growth can be particularly common during pregnancy and in those with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Several remedies like medications, hormonal therapy, hair removal methods, and lifestyle changes can be used to manage unwanted hair growth. 

It is important to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

If you are looking for treatment for unwanted hair growth, the experienced and board-certified dermatologists at Clear Skin are here to help you. Our experts give special care and vital aftercare advice for the finest and most long-lasting effects. 

Book your appointment with Clear Skin today!