Hirsutism: Causes, Treatments, and What Really Works

When you notice thick, dark hair growing on your face, chest, or back — areas where women typically don’t grow much hair — you might be dealing with hirsutism, a condition where women develop excessive male-pattern hair growth due to elevated androgen levels. Also known as female facial hair, it’s not just cosmetic; it’s often a sign your body is producing more male hormones than normal. This isn’t about shaving more often. It’s about what’s happening inside.

Hirsutism usually ties back to polycystic ovary syndrome, a hormonal disorder affecting up to 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. But it can also come from adrenal gland issues, certain medications, or even genetics. Not everyone with hirsutism has PCOS, and not everyone with PCOS has hirsutism — but the two are closely linked. High androgen levels, hormones like testosterone that drive hair growth and muscle development are the common thread. These hormones stimulate hair follicles in ways that make fine, light hair turn coarse and dark.

What you do next depends on what’s driving it. If it’s PCOS, managing insulin resistance with diet, exercise, or metformin can help. Birth control pills and anti-androgen drugs like spironolactone are common prescriptions because they block those excess hormones. But many people also look at hair removal treatments, options like laser, electrolysis, or topical creams that tackle the visible symptom. Laser works best on dark hair and light skin — it’s not a cure, but it reduces regrowth over time. Electrolysis is the only FDA-approved permanent method, but it’s slow and expensive.

Some people try supplements like saw palmetto or inositol, but evidence is mixed. What works for one person might do nothing for another. That’s why getting tested — for testosterone, DHEA-S, thyroid function, and insulin — matters more than guessing. You don’t need to live with this quietly. There are real, science-backed ways to manage it, whether you’re focused on stopping the root cause or just reducing the hair.

The posts below cover what’s actually out there: from how specific drugs affect hormone levels to real-world comparisons of hair removal tools, and even how conditions like PCOS and adrenal disorders connect to this symptom. You’ll find no fluff — just clear, practical info from people who’ve been there.