Body hair varies in type, thickness and length and specific growth patterns are seen in men and women. Typically women have finer, downy hair (vellus type) on most of their body and thicker hair (terminal hair) on the pubic region and armpits. In some women, this thick terminal hair may begin to grow on the chest, face (beard or moustache/mustache), back and thighs. This condition is known as hirsutism where higher than normal levels of male sex hormones in a woman’s body triggers this hair growth pattern.
Hirsutism is different from hypertrichosis where the latter refers to increased hair growth throughout the body and is not specific to terminal hair growth on the face, chest, back and thighs. Usually hirsutism in women is associated with hormonal disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome. Androgens, male sex hormones, which are normally present in woman at lower levels than males may increase due to hormone related disorders. Some cases of hirsutism may not be related to high levels of androgens, like in menopause and pregnancy.
The most noticeable aspects of hirsutism is female facial hair and/or beard. This can prove to be quite distressing, especially for young women who are more concscious about their appearance. Increased hair growth on the body may be more common in certain ethnic groups or familial traits but usually hirsutism is clearly differentiated from genetic factors. Other signs and symptoms associated with hormone related disorders may also include weight gain, infertility or difficulty falling pregnant, irregular periods and severe period pain.
Herbal & Homeopathic Remedies
- In cases of hirsutism due to hormone related disorders, a natural female hormone stabilizer should be considered.
- A herbal female hormone stabilizer may be used daily but should be discontinued during your periods. This hormone stabilizer should not be used if pregnant or breastfeeding and may not be suitable for menopausal women.
- A homeopathic female hormone stabilizer may be used 2 to 3 times a day. Discontinue immediately if any of your symptoms are aggravating.
Body & Facial Hair Removal
Usually hair removal is the only safe method to manage body and facial hair growth. Waxing, depilatory creams, electrolysis and laser hair removal are the more popular choices. Shaving should be avoided as this may stimulate thicker hair growth.