PCOS Hirsutism – What You Need to Know

If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS and notice extra hair growing on your chin, belly, or thighs, you’re not alone. This extra hair, called hirsutism, is one of the most common and frustrating symptoms of PCOS. It happens because the ovaries make more male‑like hormones (androgens) than usual, and those hormones tell hair follicles to grow thicker, darker hair where women typically have fine, light hair.

Hirsutism can affect confidence, but the good news is there are clear steps you can take to tame it. Below we’ll break down why it happens, how to tell if it’s PCOS‑related, and what you can do at home or with a doctor to keep it under control.

Why Hirsutism Happens with PCOS

In PCOS the ovaries produce excess androgens such as testosterone and DHEA‑S. Those hormones travel through the bloodstream and bind to hair follicles in areas like the upper lip, chest, and abdomen. When the follicles receive this signal, they shift from producing fine vellus hair to coarser terminal hair.

Not every woman with PCOS will develop noticeable hirsutism – genetics play a big role. If the women in your family have a history of excess hair, you’re more likely to see it too. Also, insulin resistance, another PCOS hallmark, can boost androgen production, making the problem worse.

Practical Ways to Manage Excess Hair

First, talk to a healthcare professional. Blood tests can confirm hormone levels and rule out other causes. From there, treatment usually falls into three categories: lifestyle, medication, and hair‑removal methods.

Lifestyle changes – Losing even a modest amount of weight (5‑10 % of body weight) can lower insulin and androgen levels, which often softens hair growth. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats, and try to move a little each day.

Medications – Birth‑control pills are the most common first‑line option; they contain estrogen and progestin, which suppress ovarian androgen production. For women who can’t take pills, anti‑androgens like spironolactone can block androgen receptors, slowing hair growth. In more stubborn cases, doctors may prescribe oral finasteride or even a low‑dose oral minimally invasive treatment called laser hair removal after medication has reduced hormone levels.

Hair‑removal techniques – Temporary methods like shaving, wax, or depilatory creams work, but they need frequent upkeep. For longer‑lasting results, consider laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) sessions; they target the pigment in thick hair and gradually reduce its density. Electrolysis is another permanent option, though it can be time‑intensive.

Remember, it’s normal to try a mix of methods before finding what feels right. Keep a simple log of what you use, how often you need to repeat it, and any side effects – that makes conversations with your doctor much clearer.

Lastly, be kind to yourself. Hirsutism is a visible sign of an internal hormonal imbalance, not a flaw. With the right plan – lifestyle tweaks, targeted meds, and smart hair‑removal – you can regain control and feel more comfortable in your skin.