Being unusually hairy can be due to genetics; it may be that excess facial and body hair just tends to run in your family. But there can be other causes, from commonly prescribed drugs to poor diet and medical conditions.
If you notice you have more hair on your face and body than usual, it is worth mentioning this to your doctor.
Possible causes of excess hair include:
Polycystic ovaries
This condition is the main cause of excess hair in women. Those with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) have higher than normal levels of androgens – male hormones – which can cause hair growth on the chin, upper lip, sides of the face, chest and inner thighs.
Other symptoms of PCOS include erratic periods, acne, obesity and fertility problems. Hormone treatment can help improve symptoms.
Cushing’s syndrome
Your adrenal glands can make too much of the hormone cortisol, which is involved in your body’s response to stress. Too much cortisol can disrupt the balance of hormones and lead to Cushing’s syndrome.
Other symptoms of this disorder include a rounded face and gaining weight on the upper body, while the arms and legs become thin. It can also lead to skin that bruises easily, weak muscles, irregular periods and high blood pressure. Excess hair growth is usually found on the face, neck, chest, abdomen and thighs.
Tumours
On rare occasions, hair growth can be triggered by tumours in the ovaries or adrenal glands that secrete androgens.
Menopause
As menopause kicks in and oestrogen levels decline, the male hormone testosterone becomes more dominant, making women more prone to male characteristics, such as facial hair. Areas that are sensitive to testosterone include the upper lip and chin, which is where the hair tends to grow. Hormone replacement therapy can help correct this imbalance.
Eczema
Patients with skin problems, such as eczema or psoriasis, can also develop excess hair. That’s because inflammation in the body that causes these conditions can also increase blood supply to the skin, accelerating hair growth.
Medication
Some prescription drugs can cause hair growth, including AZOL, which is used to treat women with endometriosis. Corticosteroids – prescribed to treat conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis – can also lead to Cushing’s syndrome, and a greater risk of hair growth if they are used for too long.
If you have any worries or questions, it is always best to talk to a medical professional.
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