Why Facial Hair Is Grown And Their Different Removal Treatments

Waynemward
4 min readMar 13, 2024

Facial hair development is a normal process that happens in both men and women, although the volume and pattern of growth can differ greatly across people. While some people regard their facial hair as a symbol of masculinity or distinctive flair, others may want to control or eliminate it. In this post, we’ll look at the causes of facial hair growth and examine several treatments for decreasing or eliminating unsightly facial hair.

Understanding Facial Hair Growth

Hormonal variables, including the presence of androgens such as testosterone, have the greatest impact on facial hair development. During puberty, hormonal changes cause the development of secondary sexual traits, including the growth of facial hair in males. However, women generate minor levels of testosterone, which can cause the development of fine facial hair known as vellus hair.

Terminal hair grows thicker, darker, and more noticeable than vellus hair due to hormonal swings, genetic predisposition, and other variables such as race and age. While facial hair development is natural and typical, some people may have excessive or undesired hair growth as a result of disorders such as hirsutism or hormonal imbalance.

Treatment Options for Unwanted Facial Hair

Topical Creams and Lotions: Facial hair removal creams and lotions are popular over-the-counter treatments that work by dissolving the protein structure of the hair, allowing it to be easily removed. Thioglycolic acid or potassium hydroxide are common constituents in these preparations, which are administered directly to the skin. They offer a rapid and painless technique of hair removal, although some people may have skin irritation or allergic reactions.

Laser hair reduction is a long-term method of decreasing unwanted facial hair. This cosmetic technique includes using intense laser radiation to destroy the hair follicles and prevent future hair growth. Laser hair removal is safe and effective for most skin types, although it may take several sessions to reach the desired results.

Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal method that includes putting a small needle into each hair follicle and administering an electric current to kill the hair root. This procedure is appropriate for all skin types and hair colors, and it may successfully remove facial hair with no discomfort. However, electrolysis might be more time-consuming and expensive than other hair removal methods.

Prescription Medications: Oral contraceptives or anti-androgen pharmaceuticals may be recommended to women suffering from hirsutism or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in order to control excessive facial hair development. These drugs act by inhibiting the effects of androgens and controlling hormone levels, slowing hair growth over time.

Threading and waxing are classic procedures of facial hair removal in which hair is pulled out from the root using thread or wax. While these procedures offer temporary relief and may be performed at home or by a professional, they can cause discomfort, redness, and irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.

Nutritional Supplements: Some nutritional supplements promise to slow hair growth by addressing hormonal imbalances or lowering androgen production. These supplements may contain saw palmetto, spearmint extract, or soy isoflavones and are touted as natural alternatives to traditional hair removal treatments. However, the scientific evidence for their efficacy is weak.

Patient counselling points

  • Eflornithine may need a hair removal treatment. After hair removal, wait at least 5 minutes before using eflornithine lotion.
  • Before using the product, clean and dry the affected regions of skin.
  • Apply a thin coating of cream and thoroughly rub it into the targeted regions, leaving no apparent residue.
  • If possible, avoid washing the treated area within four hours of treatment.
  • Wait at least 30 minutes before applying makeup or sunscreen to the treated areas.
  • Use it twice each day, at least eight hours apart.
  • Wash your hands after each use.
  • Eflornithine may cause skin irritation; if this happens, contact your doctor.

Facial hair development is a normal part of human biology, regulated by hormones, genetics, and other factors. While many individuals accept their facial hair as part of their personality, others may choose to control or eliminate it for personal or cultural reasons. Fortunately, there are a range of therapeutic options for decreasing or eradicating unsightly facial hair, including topical lotions, laser therapy, electrolysis, and prescription drugs. Individuals may make educated judgments about how to meet their own requirements and preferences by first understanding the underlying reasons for facial hair development and then investigating various treatment options.

To summarize, whether one decides to embrace or control their facial hair, it is critical to understand the underlying causes of its growth and investigate the many treatment methods accessible. From topical creams and laser therapy to electrolysis and prescription drugs, there is a solution for everyone’s requirements and preferences. Finally, the decision to remove or decrease facial hair is very personal, and while selecting a treatment approach, it is essential to consider issues such as safety, efficacy, and long-term outcomes.

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