Excessive Facial Hair in Women (Hirsutism): Causes and Options
Thick, dark hair on a woman's face, chest or tummy is called hirsutism. PCOS is the most common cause. Here is how it is assessed and the treatment options.
Condition guide
Excess facial hair in women
Also known as Hirsutism, Unwanted facial hair, Facial hair in women, Male pattern hair growth.
In short
Hirsutism means thick, dark hair growing in a male pattern in women, on areas such as the upper lip, chin, neck, chest, tummy, lower back or thighs. It is usually linked to androgen hormones, and the most common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), although sometimes no cause is found. Fine, light hair and hair that simply runs in the family are not hirsutism. Treatment combines checking and managing the cause, hair removal such as laser, and, where needed, prescription treatment that slows hair growth over six to twelve months.
Typical signs
- Thick, dark hair on the upper lip, chin or neck
- Similar hair on the chest, tummy, lower back, buttocks or thighs
- Irregular periods, acne or scalp hair thinning alongside the hair growth
- Dark, velvety patches on the neck or underarms
- Bumps, ingrown hairs or dark marks after threading or waxing
When to see a dermatologist
- You have thick, dark hair on your face, chest, tummy or back
- Hair growth comes with irregular periods, acne, scalp hair thinning or dark patches on the neck
- Threading or waxing is leaving you with bumps, ingrown hairs or dark marks
- You are considering laser and want to know if it suits your skin and hair
- The hair is affecting your confidence or daily life
- Ask for an urgent appointment if thick hair starts growing suddenly, or your voice is deepening or your muscles are getting bigger
Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.
Read the guides
Full, referenced articles on excess facial hair in women written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.
PCOS Skin and Hair Symptoms: A Complete Guide for Women
PCOS often shows on the skin first, as acne, facial hair, dark neck patches or thinning hair. Learn why it happens, what helps and when to get tested.
Worried about excess facial hair in women?
Book an online consultation with Dr. Maria Ansari for an assessment and a written care plan made for you.
This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.