Facial Hirsutism

When to book a facial hirsutism consultation

Speak to a pharmacist if you notice a significant increase in thick, dark facial hair on the upper lip, chin, cheeks or jawline that is causing you concern. This is different from the fine, light facial hair that naturally increases with age.

Seek urgent medical advice if excessive hair growth comes on suddenly alongside a deeper voice, increased muscle mass or irregular periods, as these can point to a condition needing investigation. The NHS also recommends seeing a GP when hirsutism develops, as blood tests can identify an underlying hormonal cause such as PCOS.

What causes facial hirsutism?

Hirsutism is excessive growth of thick, dark hair in areas where women do not usually have significant hair growth. It is usually linked to an increase in androgen hormones, or increased sensitivity to them.

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - the most common cause, affecting up to 1 in 10 women, often alongside irregular periods, acne and weight gain
• Menopause - changes in oestrogen and progesterone can raise relative androgen activity
• Certain medications - including steroids, some epilepsy drugs and anabolic compounds
• Hormonal disorders - rarely, Cushing's syndrome, acromegaly or hormone-producing tumours
• Genetic and ethnic factors - some women are more predisposed than others
• Idiopathic hirsutism - no identifiable cause despite normal hormone levels

Treatment options

• Eflornithine cream (Vaniqa) - a prescription cream applied twice daily that slows hair growth rather than removing existing hair. Results usually appear after four to eight weeks. Our pharmacists can prescribe it following a consultation
• Shaving, waxing and plucking - temporary relief. Contrary to common belief, shaving does not make hair grow back thicker or darker
• Depilatory creams - dissolve hair at the skin surface. Use products designed for the face and patch test first
• Laser hair removal - a longer-term option over multiple sessions, working best on dark hair with lighter skin
• Electrolysis - the only permanent method, effective on all hair and skin types, over multiple sessions
• Hormonal treatments - your GP may recommend the combined pill or anti-androgen medication where PCOS or another hormonal condition is involved

Managing hirsutism at home

Maintaining a healthy weight can help regulate hormone levels, and the NHS lists weight loss as a first-line approach where PCOS is a factor. Bleaching with products made for sensitive skin makes hair less noticeable and works well alongside eflornithine cream. Be gentle when removing hair to avoid irritation, ingrown hairs and scarring.

Hirsutism can have a real emotional impact, and is linked to reduced quality of life, social withdrawal and higher risk of depression. Those feelings are valid, and seeking treatment is a positive step. We can also signpost you to mental health support.

Find facial hirsutism treatment near you

Walk in with no appointment for a private consultation, eflornithine cream following pharmacist assessment, expert advice on hair removal, and GP referral if further investigation is needed. Use the postcode search above to find your nearest Allied Pharmacy.