Ain't I A Woman: Making Unwanted Facial Hair Disappear

Ain’t I A Woman: Making Unwanted Facial Hair Disappear

No woman likes to admit having facial hair, but it’s one of the most common aesthetic complaints in beauty. Plus, those chin hairs may be more serious that you think.

Unwanted facial hair, known as hirsutism, affects millions of women of all ages. Around 10% of U.S. women contend with some degree of hirsutism daily. Some of the most common areas are the upper lip, chin, neck, back and bikini line.

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What Causes Hirsutism?

Hirsutism develops when there is an imbalance in androgen hormones.

The most common cause is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Major signs of PCOS are irregularities in menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, high androgen levels and unexpected weight gain especially in the abdomen area.

Another cause of hirsutism is genetics. If immediate female family members have it, chances are you will develop it, too.

Diabetes, when the body’s blood sugar runs dangerously high or low, may be another culprit. Weight gain and diabetes are often correlated together and a lack of metabolism may cause hormonal imbalance. Other conditions include congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hyperthyroidism and rare adrenal and ovarian tumors.

Behaviors such as poor dieting, steroidal medications, smoking and pregnancy can cause hirsutism, too.

Hormonal imbalance also brings stress. If you cannot manage demands in life, anything and everything may overwhelm you, including body image.

READ: Managing Your Weight With PCOS

How to Treat Hirsutism?

There are two answers to this question: medication and physical hair removal.

Homemade Sugar Wax

> Mix two teaspoons of granulated sugar (brown or white) and one teaspoon each of honey and water.
> Heat the mixture in a microwave or on a stove for about half a minute until it bubbles and turns brown. Allow it to cool.
> Using a spatula, apply it on the areas where you want to remove the hair.
> Place a cloth strip over the sugar wax and smooth it out with your fingers in the direction of the hair growth.
> Finally, rip it off in the opposite direction of hair growth.
> Repeat as needed.