Facial hair on women: what can you do about it?

Facial hair growth in women is something that many of us worry about. Assuming you’re not genetically inclined to facial air (Mediterranean, Jewish, and Eastern European descent) or have a family history of facial hair growth in women), it could be a number of things.

One of the most common is hormonal imbalance. Women have estrogens and androgens (male hormones). As we age, the levels of both hormones naturally decline. However, the relationship between the differences diminishes and it can seem that we suddenly have more male hormones and therefore flyaways. In addition, there are some medications that can stimulate the growth of loose, darker, and thicker hair, such as phenytoin, cyclosporine, anabolic steroids, testosterone-combination medications such as estratest, and minoxidil (used for high blood pressure and baldness in men). ).

However, sometimes excess facial or body hair can be the result of physical and medical problems. For example, polycystic ovarian syndrome and obesity (adipose tissue can produce androgens). Occasionally it may be related to adrenal tumors. In these cases, one will see more than the occasional loose hair on the face. If this happens to you, see your health care provider.

So what can you do about it? Women have been looking for ways to permanently remove hair for years. There doesn’t seem to be an easy, foolproof permanent way to treat facial hair.

Treatments include:

• Radiofrequency Makeup
• Hormones (estrogen and progesterone)
• shaved off
• hair removal
• Laser
• Electrolysis
• Medications – Vaniqua – a prescription cream

According to many dermatologists, electrolysis seems to be the only method for permanent removal. Vaniqua, which is relatively new in recent years, does not seem to work for all women. Long-term efficacy is unknown at this time.

As with most things, there doesn’t seem to be a single solution to the problem of loose facial hair. You will most likely need to try various treatments and see what works for you. Keep in mind, however, that if the hair appears excessive or if you are in doubt, speak with your health care provider for further evaluation.