We all have hair on almost every part of our bodies, this is perfectly normal, but some people have more than others. This can be embarrassing, distressing and difficult to manage, for both men and women.
Excess hair (particularly in women) can be a symptom of a hormonal condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Sometimes excess hair growth has no identifiable cause; this tends to be more common in skin types from a Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian background. It can also be hereditary.
Problem hair growth can be identified as ingrown hairs when painful spot and lumps can appear. Sometimes this can get so bad, it almost looks like an acne condition in areas such bikini or the beard area. Ingrown hairs are often exacerbated by waxing, epilators or plucking.
In women, excess hair is often referred to as hirsutism. This is defined as hair in a male pattern; hair tends to be thick and dark, rather than finer and fairer.
Hirsutism occurs when females produce an excess of male sex hormones called androgens, or are more sensitive to these hormones. All women produce androgens; it’s fluctuating levels which can cause problems.
Although all females produce androgens, these usually remain at low levels. When there is a hormonal imbalance of them, excess hair can occur.
This fluctuation of hormone levels and symptoms such as excess hair can be triggered by a medical condition called PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Certain medical conditions and the menopause can also trigger hirsutism.
If you suspect that your hair growth is abnormal, it is best to consult your doctor as it may be a symptom of another problem.
Found on mens face and /or neck, Pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of follicular and perifollicular skin characterized by papules, pustules, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It occurs more frequently in men of African and Asian descent. These inflamed ingrown hairs cause hard, sore lumbs in the affected area, making shaving very difficult and painful.
Many factors can contribute to the problematic hair. Most commonly it’s a hormonal condition such as Polycystic Ovaries or Underactive thyroid. But other factors such as genetics, ski type and certain medications can impact. Pregnancy and Menopause are also well documented hair stimulation life changes.
