Having a thick, dark beard on the face is a normal effect of hormones in men. However in women it is abnormal and a result of a condition called hirsutism, and it can occur for a variety of reasons.
The most common reason is excessive production of androgrens (like testosterone), which is caused by a hormonal imbalance. This can happen because of things like stress, menopause, and obesity.
There are also medical conditions like Polycystic ovarian syndrome. This condition is characterized by multiple cysts in the ovaries which result in a deficient hormone production. There are also adrenal gland disorders that affect the production of a variety of hormones like cortisol.
Certain medications like Minoxidil, cyclosporine, as well as anabolic steroids can also result in facial hair as a side effect.
How to Prevent Facial Hair Growth in Women
Luckily, in many cases it's possible to use a natural remedy to remove hair from the face. The following list features a number of natural options.
If those don't work for, we've also listed a number of artificial options, as well as medication you should consult with your Doctor on.
Natural Methods
Spearmint Tea
A cup of spearmint tea, twice a day will lower the body's androgen (testosterone) levels which helps reduce facial hair in women with mild cases of hirsutism and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
It's easy to prepare, start by soaking spearmint in boiling water for a few minutes and then strain before drinking.
Sugar and Lemon Juice
This method involves creating and applying a cooked mixture of sugar, lemon juice, and water. You then apply the mixture to the area where the facial hair is most prominent, allowing it to dry before washing it off. This should be done three times a week.
This method works by exfoliating the skin. The sugar acts as a natural hair remover as it sticks to the hair while still being easily rinsed off without damaging the skin. The lemon juice is added to the mixture as it helps to remove the remaining hair.
Lemon Orange/Apricot Honey scrub
Similar to the sugar and lemon juice mixture, these two fruits work act as a natural hair remover.
Start by mixing powdered orange (or apricot), lemon peel, and pair it with oatmeal, olive oil, and water. The result will be a paste that you can apply to the facial hair.
Apply the mixture to your face for about five minutes and then rinse. Doing so three times a week.
Alternative Artificial Methods
If using natural remedies doesn't work, sometimes a more aggressive approach is needed. Let's look at some of the alternatives:
Tweezers
Tweezers are often many people's first choice for removing a few hairs on their face. The safest way to go about using them is to sterilize them with rubbing alcohol. Ensure that you stretch the skin around the area in order to get a better grip.
This isn't a permanent solution as the hair will likely grow back, but if you only have a few hairs, it's fast and cost effective.
Ensure that you reduce friction and use a compress to avoid irritating the skin. Using tweezers can sometimes result in folliculitis or the inflammation of the hair follicles.
Shaving
Men aren't the only ones who can use razors. Another tried and true method for facial hair removal is shaving the hair with a razor. Ensure that you use a shaving cream and a sharp/new razor.
Just like the tweezers, this is a temporary solution and the hair will inevitably grow back.
Threading
Threading is quite popular in salons. The method uses a twisting cotton thread around the hairs and pulls them out in rows. It's similar to using tweezers to pluck the hair.
Unlike waxing, it doesn't irritate the skin and is safe and effective. However, like the first two methods, it also isn't a permanent solution and the hair will grow back.
Laser hair removal
When all hope is lost, you may want to opt for laser hair removal. These treatments are often noted for being permanent or a semi-permanent solution for excessive hair growth.
The process works by applying concentrated light into the follicles. This damages the follicles and prevents them from growing hair.
The only downside of this treatment is the price, you will often have to pay for multiple sessions. It can also irritate the skin and be painful.
Using Medication
Eflornithine
Eflornithine is a topical cream that is effective in reducing hair growth. It also only takes a few months to start noticing results.
The only downside is that it can cause skin irritation for people with sensitive skin. If you feel that you have sensitive skin, it’s advisable to have a visit a dermatologist before using.
Birth control
Facial hair growth in women is usually caused by a hormonal imbalance. A Doctor may prescribe birth control which lowers androgen levels. There are also other medications they may prescribe to take in conjunction with birth control.
Antiandrogens
Lastly, we have antiandrogens. This is a medication that can be bought in steroid or non-steroid form. These block the androgen receptors in the body that reduces hormone production in the ovaries, adrenal, and pituitary glands. As a result, it will reduce the production of hormones that cause facial hair growth.
Conclusion
Facial hair in women can be annoying. However there are a number of options available to you in order to alleviate the problem. Consider bringing these methods up with your Doctor. They will have more information for you in regards to some of the underlying issues that may be affecting your excess facial hair.
