.jpg)
.jpeg)
.png)
Facial hair growth from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can feel frustrating and sometimes even discouraging. PCOS is a hormonal condition that often brings higher-than-typical levels of androgens — AKA “male hormones” — in people. This hormonal shift can lead to extra hair growth, called hirsutism, especially on the face. Fortunately, there are ways to manage this aspect of PCOS and feel more confident.
What is PCOS?
PCOS, short for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a condition where the ovaries can overproduce certain hormones, including androgens like testosterone. This surplus sometimes leads to symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back.
Research shows that around 5–10% of individuals of reproductive age deal with hirsutism, with PCOS being a common underlying cause. Insulin resistance and weight challenges can play a big part in this extra hair growth, but lean individuals can also experience PCOS symptoms.
Why do androgens affect facial hair?
Androgens stimulate hair follicles, especially in areas considered “male-pattern,” like the upper lip, chin, and jawline. When the body has too many androgens, these follicles switch into overdrive, leading to thicker, darker hair. One study on hirsutism’s underlying causes points out that keeping androgen levels in check is key to taming unwanted hair.
And, in typical PCOS fashion, many women find that, if it’s not hirsutism, it’s hair loss. Sigh.
Can PCOS facial hair go away?
Yes — sometimes. It varies person to person and depends on factors like managing levels of the hormones which are driving the hair growth (androgens), genetics, and overall health. Many people notice that as their insulin resistance goes down or as they manage their PCOS with combined oral contraceptives (birth control pills), hair growth slows. Other folks might need longer-term solutions or additional medical treatments to keep hair growth in check.
A well-rounded approach — like managing PCOS, losing weight, and lowering inflammation — can help reduce symptoms. Still, facial hair that’s already growing might need specific attention through treatments like laser therapy, electrolysis, or more regular removal methods.
How can I reduce my PCOS facial hair?
%20Premium%20Subscription%20Bundle%20Muse%E2%84%A2%20EEG-Powered%20Meditation%20&%20Sleep%20Headband.png)
There are a few ways you can help your PCOS facial hair to fade away — you can give them a try or ask your doctor for more information:
Birth control pills
As board-certified OB-GYN, Dr. Adriana Wong, explains, “The first line is usually medical treatments like using a combined oral contraceptive”.
This is the mainstay of treatment and is usually recommended first because it is the most effective. It is normal to take up to 6 months to see a noticeable effect. They work in a few different ways, by:
-
Decreasing the amount of androgens that the ovaries produce
-
Decreasing the amount of androgens in circulation by increasing the amount of sex hormone binding globulin (basically, it binds to the androgens that are around and removes them from circulation)
-
Reducing serum free and total testosterone levels
Anti-androgen medications
For example, spironolactone can block androgen effects on hair follicles. This is another option which is commonly used but the individual should be on a reliable form of birth control (like an IUD), since this can cause birth defects in a developing pregnancy.
Prescription creams
These can be effective when dealing with PCOS hair. Eflornithine cream, in particular, can be applied to slow facial hair growth.
Hormone testing and check-ups
This might not be a way to actually reduce your PCOS facial hair, but it can be the start to finding treatment that works for you. Blood tests for androgens, diabetes (which can indicate insulin resistance), and sometimes thyroid function provide a clearer idea of how to move forward. These check-ups also help track improvement over time.
What works for someone else might not work for you
Each body is unique, and not every method works for everyone. Healthcare providers, like endocrinologists or gynecologists familiar with PCOS, can team up with dermatologists to find a plan that fits individual needs. Whether it’s focusing on nutrition, specific medications, or a combination of both, a tailored approach tends to give the best long-term results.
PCOS hair removal methods
Even while working on long-term solutions, there’s often a day-to-day need to remove or reduce existing hair. Options include:
-
Waxing or sugaring: Quick ways to remove multiple hairs at once.
-
Threading or tweezing: Good for shaping brows or removing smaller patches.
-
Shaving: Contrary to common myths, shaving doesn’t cause thicker regrowth — it just snips hair at the surface.
-
Depilatory creams: Chemical creams dissolve hair at or just below the skin surface, although they can cause irritation in some people.
Or you can try some longer-term hair removal techniques, like:
-
Laser hair removal: Uses targeted light energy to reduce the growth of hair follicles, which can prove pretty successful over multiple sessions.
-
Electrolysis: Zaps individual follicles with electricity, permanently destroying them. While often effective, electrolysis can be expensive and requires patience.
Appreciating your body
Unwanted facial hair can shake up body image and self-confidence. It’s totally okay to feel frustrated or upset. Connecting with a mental health professional, a support network, or online forums can be a helpful outlet. Friends, partners, or family members might also offer support to help lighten the load and remind you that you’re not alone.
Ultimately, facial hair growth from PCOS is more common than people sometimes realize — affecting around 65-75% of women with PCOS. The good news is that the research surrounding all areas of PCOS is ongoing, and each medical finding takes us one step closer to managing something that affects a sizeable portion of the population.
Working on both physical and emotional health is crucial. Whether it’s setting small goals for daily walks or joining a PCOS support circle, every step counts. Over time, many find that this balanced approach doesn’t just help manage facial hair — it also boosts mood, energy, and body confidence overall. Win-win.
Tassia O'Callaghan is an experienced content writer and strategist, having written about a vast range of topics from chemical regulations to parenting, for brands like Peanut App Ltd, Scary Mommy, Tally Workspace, and Fertility Mapper. She's an advocate for realistic sustainable living, supporting small businesses (author of A-Z of Marketing for Small Businesses), and equity across all walks of life. Follow her on LinkedIn or TikTok, or see more of her work on Authory or her website.