Oh, Hair No!
Have you noticed some unexpected facial hair popping up lately? Perhaps your eyebrows and eyelashes, once a bit sparse, have decided to take a break and leave some extra hair on your chin or upper lip. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone.
This kind of hair growth is more common than you might think, especially as we transition into perimenopause and menopause. The reason behind it? Hormonal shifts. Specifically, as estrogen levels drop, androgen (or testosterone) levels may rise. One of the triggers for this hormonal imbalance is often increased insulin levels. When insulin is elevated, it stimulates the ovaries to produce more androgens, which can lead to hirsutism, or excessive male-pattern hair growth in women.
In fact, nearly 50% of postmenopausal women experience some form of facial hirsutism. While it’s completely normal for your body to go through these changes, it doesn’t mean you have to just accept the unwanted hair. There are plenty of ways to prevent and manage this issue. Let’s dive into the causes, the science behind it, and most importantly, how you can address it.
What Causes Hirsutism?
One major cause of hirsutism or unwanted facial hair growth is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that affects many women. Though primarily known as a reproductive disorder, PCOS is also a metabolic disorder. The link between PCOS and hirsutism is often due to elevated insulin resistance, which occurs in about 60-70% of women with the condition.
With insulin resistance, the body becomes less effective at managing blood sugar levels, leading to higher insulin production. This increase in insulin can stimulate the ovaries to produce excess androgens, which in turn can cause hair growth in areas typically associated with male-pattern growth. The connection between insulin resistance and weight gain is also significant. A study by the National Institute of Health (NIH) including 800 women found a clear relationship between higher body mass index (BMI) and increased hirsutism.
What Can You Do About It?
If you’re noticing unwanted facial hair, don’t panic! There are several steps you can take to address it:
Nutrition: Start by focusing on a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Aim to increase your fiber intake to at least 25 grams per day. And while it may sound repetitive, eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables is key. The goal is to maintain a healthy body weight and keep your BMI below 30. This will not only help manage insulin resistance but also reduce the risk of other health issues, like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Exercise: Physical activity plays a crucial role in regulating insulin levels and promoting overall health. Try to aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. If a full 30 minutes isn’t always possible, don’t worry—breaking it up into smaller sessions (three 10-minute walks or two 15-minute bursts) can be just as effective.
Explore Hormone Replacement Therapy: If you're in menopause or perimenopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be worth considering. It's important to have a conversation with your healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and risks.
Consult a Dermatologist: If the facial hair is becoming bothersome, a dermatologist can be a valuable resource. They may recommend prescription topical treatments or laser hair removal as options to manage unwanted hair growth.
Visit an Endocrinologist: Since hormones are often a key factor in hirsutism, an endocrinologist can help address any underlying hormone imbalances that may be contributing to the issue. Additionally, your gynecologist should be involved in managing any hormone-related concerns.
While unwanted facial hair can feel frustrating, it’s important to remember that it’s a common issue that many women face during menopause. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage it, from lifestyle changes like improved nutrition and regular exercise to professional treatments that can help reduce or eliminate unwanted hair.
With the right approach and the help of your healthcare providers, you don’t have to simply live with it. So, take control of your health, and don’t be afraid to seek out solutions that work for you.
Kelly Rigo is the creative force behind Menopause Evolution.