Excessive Hair Growth: Top Common Causes You Must Know
Excessive hair growth is one of the most undesired conditions every woman fears. It is characterized by the appearance of coarse hair around the areas where usually hair does not grow. These body parts include the back, face, and chest.
Otherwise known as hirsutism, such a condition can negatively impact your physical appearance. That is why it is important to know about its causes to prevent them. Some of the prime reasons for excessive hair growth are Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, abnormal androgens production, and tumors.
If left unchecked, hirsutism can get worse. You can avoid the condition by learning about various contributing factors. Keep reading the article to know more. It will shed light on the top causes of excessive hair growth you must know.
5 Most Common Causes of Hirsutism
The development of excess body hair is primarily related to women. However, males can also face the situation. Studies show hirsutism is more common in females of reproductive age. The causes vary from genetic to environmental elements. Using some medicines can also lead to the onset of hirsutism. Insulin resistance is another key cause. Let’s focus on the five most common causes of hirsutism:
1. PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, IS a female-related problem. It is a hormonal abnormality that affects women during the reproductive age. The presence of multiple cysts on the ovary defies it. Research shows females with PCOS are more prone to developing excessive body hair.
As mentioned earlier, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a hormonal imbalance. It can shift the equilibrium in hormone production in the body, releasing androgens like testosterone. These chemicals play a significant role in giving rise to dark, coarse hair on the body.
Such a disruption can severely affect the normal hair growth cycle. As a result, you might experience hair on the unexpected body parts. Opting for reliable treatment like laser hair removal is the best option if you suffer from this condition. People book appointments at laser clinic Dubai to get rid of overabundant hair.
2. Androgens Production
Your body contains chemicals called hormones that control different activities, including hair growth. Androgens play a critical role in this process. They are usually known as the male hormone, although women also contain small amounts of these substances.
These hormones are necessary to maintain the overall reproductive health of women. However, a shift in balance, increasing their production, can lead to multiple issues. One of the most common consequences is hirsutism.
This is because they can trigger follicles to produce coarser, thicker, and darker body hair. There are several ways to keep your androgen levels in check. For instance, you can change your lifestyle or opt for a medical treatment.
3. Tumors
Your cells continually die and are replaced by newer ones through a process called cell division. This process is highly critical, and your body keeps it in check. An abnormality in cell division can result in a tumor. According to studies, some tumors are among the top causes of excessive hair growth.
According to experts, tumors of adrenal glands and ovaries are most commonly associated with hirsutism. Both these types can cause hormonal imbalances in the body. As a result, your body might start producing more androgens.
If the condition is not detected at an early stage, it can worsen. Unfortunately, it is challenging to prevent tumors, but you can treat them to avoid hirsutism. Surgical removal of the tumor or laser hair removal can help you manage hirsutism.
4. Medication
Most people are unaware that certain medicines have the potential to cause excessive body hair. Scientific studies reveal that people who use certain types of medicines are more prone to developing hirsutism. It is one of the five most common causes of hirsutism.
Here is the list of some medicines that are generally related to excess body hair:
- Corticosteroids that treat allergies and autoimmunity
- Anabolic steroids used for muscle growth
- Mineralocorticoids that regulate electrolyte balance
- Progestins found in birth control pills
These and some other medicines can lead to hirsutism. If you observe such a symptom after using these drugs, it is important to consult a professional. You can book an appointment at laser clinic to address excessive body hair in such a situation.
5. Insulin Resistance
Insulin is a hormone that your body produces to control blood sugar levels. When your bodily cells become less responsive to this hormone, it is called insulin resistance. According to research, people with such a condition are more susceptible to hirsutism for the following reasons:
- It disrupts hormonal balance
- It increases androgen production
- It can develop Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
- It can stimulate hair follicles
- It can cause oxidative stress
Due to the above reasons, insulin resistance is linked to hirsutism. You can manage the situation by exercising, eating healthier foods, and opting for laser hair removal.
Summing Up
Excessive body hair is a condition where hair grows on unusual body parts. PCOS, insulin resistance, some drugs, and tumors are the most common causes. Contacting a reliable clinic can help if you have hirsutism.
Learn more: Everything You Need To Know About the Hair Care Products