Stubborn hair showing up where you don’t want it? You’re not alone. Excessive hairiness (sometimes called hirsutism in women) crops up for tons of people, and it’s not just about looks. It can point to what’s going on inside your body—think hormones, health conditions, or even the side effects of certain medications.
So, why does it happen? Hormones usually steal the spotlight here. Androgens, a type of hormone, kick off extra hair growth in places you’d rather keep smooth—face, chest, or back. This can happen when your body makes too much of these hormones or when your skin is extra sensitive to them. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a major cause in women, while some adrenal issues or medications can spark changes for both men and women.
Don’t just chalk it up to genetics if your hair growth suddenly changes. Any rapid shifts or heavy, thick hair in new areas deserve attention. Sometimes, this means something’s off with your hormone levels, your thyroid, or even your diet. Even stress hormones can have a say in the matter.
If you’re seeing unwanted hair where it never used to be, start by taking simple steps. Jot down any meds you’re using, especially steroids or hormone treatments—these can tip the balance. Pay attention to your cycle, weight changes, or acne flare-ups to give your doctor a clearer picture.
What about treatment? For many, prescription options do the heavy lifting. Medications called anti-androgens help block those pesky hormones. Birth control pills often pull double duty, evening out cycles and reducing unwanted hair. If meds aren’t for you, laser hair removal or electrolysis can score lasting results—though these usually need a pro and a chunk of time.
Prefer the DIY route? You’re probably already tried tweezing, waxing, or shaving, but be honest—how long do those results really last? Topical creams like eflornithine can slow down growth, but they’re a long-term play and sometimes hard to find in Canada. If you’re going natural, some folks run with spearmint tea or dietary tweaks, but the science on these is spotty at best.
Let’s not ignore the emotional side. Excessive hairiness can hit self-confidence and even cause social anxiety. Feeling heard and supported matters, so talk openly with your healthcare provider or consider support groups. Lots of people go through this, and you don’t have to handle it in silence.
Bottom line: If you’re dealing with excessive hair growth and it’s bothering you, you have choices—from lifestyle tweaks to medical treatments. Spotting the root cause is the first step, and talking with your doctor can make all the difference. You deserve to feel good in your own skin.
As someone who deals with excessive hairiness, I've tried various hair removal methods and each has its own pros and cons. Shaving is quick and painless, but the hair grows back quickly and can cause ingrown hairs. Waxing lasts longer but can be quite painful and expensive. Laser hair removal offers more permanent results, but it's costly and may require multiple sessions. Lastly, depilatory creams can be a less painful alternative, but may cause skin irritation and aren't as effective as other methods.