Contrary to popular belief, it is normal for women to grow body and facial hair. However, most barely notice it because of its light colour and fine texture.
This hair is usually called peach fuzz. However, there are women who inevitably grow thicker and coarser facial hair.
Such problems could cause many women discomfort. It also lessens their self-esteem as these women become self-conscious about the extra hair on their faces. One of the most common reasons behind why this occurs in women is a disorder called hirsutism.
What is Hirsutism?
Hirsutism causes women to grow excess hair in areas more common in men such as the face and the lower abdomen. Along with the growth of facial hair, menstruation also stops, the voice deepens and there may also be cases of hair loss and balding. This disorder happens in about five to ten per cent of women.
Causes of Hirsutism
There are many reasons why women grow excessive hair and here are some of the most common:
#1 Hormonal Imbalance
It is normal for a woman’s body to produce androgens and testosterone. Their levels, however, are typically low in normal cases. However, levels of androgen and testosterone that are higher than normal can be a cause of hirsutism. Hormonal imbalances can also occur after menopause.
#2 PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome, more commonly known as PCOS, is also connected to the overproduction of androgen. Irregular periods, obesity, multiple ovarian cysts and infertility also often occur in women with this condition.
#3 Race and Genes
Excessive hair growth is mostly common in women from the Middle East, the Mediterranean Region and South Asia. The condition can also be hereditary. Thus, if a woman’s mother, sister or other female relatives have the condition, there is a higher chance she will inherit it.
#4 Medications
Oral contraceptives with norgestrel, birth control pills containing progesterone or anabolic steroids can disrupt the level of hormones and cause the growth of hair on the face.
#5 Tumours
Overproduction and excess androgen can also be a cause of tumours on the adrenal glands, which can cause excessive hair growth.
High levels of testosterone in females can also be a cause of obesity. This is because the excess abdominal fat can lead to insulin resistance and insulin in high levels can contribute to the overproduction of androgen.
#6 Obesity
High levels of testosterone in females can also be a cause of obesity. This is because the excess abdominal fat can lead to insulin resistance and insulin in high levels can contribute to the overproduction of androgen.
#7 Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
This condition is hereditary and causes an abnormal production of cortisol and androgen.
Most women experiencing this condition may feel embarrassed and emotionally distressed. Such a condition could also cause these women to be bullied or feel self-conscious.
Fortunately, there is a treatment that allows permanent facial hair removal for women. This procedure is called electrolysis and it is completely safe and approved by the American Food and Drug Administration. (FDA).
The procedure involves the application of negative current to the hair follicle to damage it and prevent it from growing and producing hair. In most cases, multiple sessions are needed to accommodate all the follicles.
However, its results are permanent and definitely worth it. Here at Permanence, Australian women suffering the negative effects of hirsutism can book an appointment for electrolysis sessions.
We understand and care for our clients. That is why our Permanence Treatment Plan is specifically tailored according to our clients.
