Today, we’re diving into a topic that many women may experience but few talk about—facial hair growth, particularly in the context of perimenopause and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
First off, if you’ve noticed the sudden appearance of a few rogue chin hairs, a fuzzy upper lip, or a more noticeable "sideburn situation", you are not alone. In fact, this is something that many women face at various points in their lives especially as a result of hormonal fluctuations.
Perimenopause and PCOS: Hormones Gone Haywire
As a Nurse Practitioner and Certified Menopause Practitioner at Kvinde Medical Aesthetics, I can tell you this: when it comes to hormonal imbalances, things can get a little... unruly.
In perimenopause, the years leading up to menopause, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate and decrease. However, while estrogen is busy doing its disappearing act, testosterone (yes, it's not just important for men, but women too!) may fluctuate at higher levels than usual. This can result in an increase in facial hair—also known as hirsutism. Hirsutism can range subtle to very noticeable.
For those of you who have PCOS, the story is often similar. This common hormonal disorder affects how your ovaries work, leading to an overproduction of androgens (a group of hormones that includes testosterone). This imbalance can also lead to increased facial hair growth, as well as other symptoms like acne, weight gain, and irregular periods. So, whether you’re in your 30s or early 40s, if you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, or are experiencing perimenopause, these unwelcome facial hairs could show up—and they often like to stay a while.
How It Affects Confidence: The Struggle Is Real
We’ve all been there: You look in the mirror, catch a glimpse of that single chin hair growing like it has a personal vendetta against you, or maybe you notice that little fuzz along your jawline. And before you know it, you're not thinking about how amazing you look in your new outfit—you’re thinking, I need to fix this.
For many women, this new facial hair growth can impact confidence. A quick survey of my own patients reveals that those affected by this condition often feel self-conscious about their appearance, especially when they’re used to seeing themselves a certain way. It can even begin to affect social interactions, as women may avoid certain situations where they feel their facial hair will be noticed (we’re talking Zoom meetings, selfies, and having makeup done by others). Sure, it’s an annoying one, but it should not define your beauty, your confidence, or your self- worth.
Treatment Options: Taming the Beard
So, what can you do about it? Fortunately, there are treatment options available that can help reduce or manage this pesky issue. However, I’ll be straight with you—while treatments can help control the symptoms, the root cause of unwanted facial hair growth is usually hormonal imbalance. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common treatment options:
1. Topical Hair Removal: Waxing, Tweezing, or Shaving
Pros: Quick and easy.
Cons: These methods only address the symptoms, not the cause. The hair will grow back.
Best For: A quick fix when you're in a pinch.
2. Laser Hair Removal
Pros: A longer solution that can reduce hair growth over time by targeting the hair follicle. This only targets current hair follicles, and will not prevent new hair follicles from forming if the root cause is not treated. The root cause is hormonal imbalance.
Cons: Expensive, and requires multiple sessions. Also, results can vary depending on your skin tone and hair color.
Best For: Women looking for a long-term solution with professional assistance.
3. Electrolysis
Pros: Permanent hair removal for individual hairs. Like laser hair removal, electrolysis only targets current hair follicles, and will not prevent new hair follicles from forming if the root cause is not treated.
Cons: Time-consuming, can be painful, and requires several sessions.
Best For: Small areas of hair growth (think chin or upper lip).
4. Prescription Medications (HRT, BHRT, Spironolactone, Oral Contraceptives)
Pros: Address the underlying hormonal imbalance, to reduce the cause producing the hirsutism. Many prescribed hormones when done correctly, can improve other symptoms such as weight gain, acne, and insomnia.
Cons: May take up to 3-9 months to see results. These medications should always be prescribed and monitored by a licensed healthcare professional specially trained in hormone treatment.
Best For: Those dealing with hormonal issues like PCOS or perimenopause who are looking for a more comprehensive, and long lasting treatment plan.
5. Natural Supplements (Spearmint Tea, Saw Palmetto)
Pros: Some case studies suggest that spearmint tea may help reduce testosterone levels in the body, potentially reducing facial hair growth. Saw palmetto is another supplement that may help.
Cons: Not a guaranteed solution, and should be taken with caution as they can interfere with other medications. There are no large randomly controlled trials that demonstrate these supplements' safety and success in treating hirsutism.
Best For: Those seeking a supplement based approach. Just be sure to consult with your healthcare provider first.
The Root Cause: Hormonal Imbalance
As mentioned, the root cause of unwanted facial hair is typically hormonal imbalance—whether due to perimenopause, PCOS, or other factors. While topical treatments can help in the short term, managing your hormone levels is the key to long-term control.
At Kvinde Medical Aesthetics, we work with our patients to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root causes, not just the symptoms. We offer a variety of services from hormone therapy to aesthetic treatments that can help you feel more comfortable in your skin. We believe in a holistic, compassionate approach to managing changes in your body as you age, so you can continue to feel your best—hairy chin and all!
Embrace Your Journey with Confidence
Let me leave you with this: Hormonal changes, while sometimes frustrating, are enevitable part of every woman's life. Whether you’re navigating the hormonal twists and turns of perimenopause or managing PCOS, there’s no need to let facial hair make you feel less than fabulous. Embrace the process, understand that you’re not alone, and don’t be afraid to seek help when you need it.
Karin Dixon, MN-NP, NP, NCMP
Nurse Practitioner
Certified Menopause Provider
BHRT trained specialist
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