Excessive Hairiness: Causes, Treatments, and What You Can Do

When you have excessive hairiness, unwanted hair growth in areas like the face, chest, or back that’s more than typical for your gender or ethnicity. Also known as hirsutism, it’s not just a cosmetic concern—it often signals something deeper in your body’s chemistry. This isn’t about shaving more often or waxing every week. It’s about understanding why your body is producing more androgens—male hormones like testosterone—than it should, especially in women.

Polycystic ovary syndrome, a common hormonal disorder affecting up to 1 in 10 women of reproductive age is the top reason for excessive hairiness. But it’s not the only one. Thyroid problems, adrenal gland disorders, and even certain medications can trigger it. Some people inherit a genetic tendency for thicker hair growth, while others develop it after starting a new drug or gaining weight. The key is figuring out which one is driving it for you.

It’s also important to know that hormonal imbalance, when your body’s natural hormone levels are out of sync doesn’t always show up as acne or missed periods. Sometimes, the only sign is hair growing where it shouldn’t. That’s why so many people delay seeing a doctor—they think it’s just "normal" or "genetic." But if it’s new, sudden, or worsening, it’s worth checking. Blood tests can spot elevated androgens, and imaging might reveal cysts or tumors. Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people respond well to birth control pills that lower androgens. Others need anti-androgen medications like spironolactone. And for those who want to reduce visible hair, laser or electrolysis can help—but only after the root cause is managed.

You’ll find posts here that dig into real cases: how finasteride—often used for hair loss—can sometimes help with unwanted hair growth, how certain diabetes drugs affect hormone levels, and why some laxatives or antihistamines might accidentally worsen the problem. There’s no magic fix, but there are proven paths forward. What you’ll see below isn’t just a list of articles—it’s a practical guide to understanding what’s really going on, and what steps actually work.