Hair On The Chin Is Common For Many Women, But It Could Also Be A Warning Sign

[LoShiNi]

Generally, hair on the chin is harmless. But occasionally, it can be a symptom of a condition that requires urgent medical attention.

Although it doesn’t occur in most women, thin hairs on the chin is quite common. This is usually normal, and can be due to age or a hormonal imbalance during pregnancy, for example.

Dr. Dendy Engelman points out that most women can expect some hairs on their chin at some point in their lives. Of course, nobody wants them, but you need to get very close to the mirror to actually see them.

But they’re not always so harmless. Sometimes, they can indicate a health problem.

According to Little Thing, when it goes beyond just the odd little hair here or there, it could be hirsutism; a condition in women which causes the growth of thick, stiff hairs in unusual places. While hirsutism itself isn’t dangerous, it could be a sign that not everything is fine.

How do you know? Well, this is what we have to look for:

Genetics

Excessive hair on the chin could be inherited via genetics. If you’ve noticed that your grandma or mother also have hairs on their chin, then you too can expect them in the future.

Ask them at what age they began noticing hairs on the chin and that will give you an idea of when they’ll appear for you.

Hormonal imbalance

When there is a hormonal imbalance, the body begins to do all kinds of crazy things, including producing hairs on the chin.

It could be due to an excessive amount of male sex hormones, called androgens (or a greater sensitivity to them).

Age

Upon reaching your 70s, there’s a greater chance of noticing hairs on your chin. Although it may also happen well before this age, when women begin producing less estrogen in menopause.

We should note that with regard to hirsutism, age (as well as hormonal imbalance) is a factor which can influence symptoms. But the main cause continues to be the excess number of androgens or increased sensitivity to them.

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a more serious form of hormonal imbalance. It can have a serious impact on reproductive and hormonal health. As well as the bothersome hairs on the chin, it has other symptoms such as irregular periods, difficulty losing weight, infertility and even ovarian cysts. You should see a doctor.

Cushing’s syndrome

Occasionally, excess hairs on the chin could be linked to Cushing’s syndrome (another type of hormonal imbalance), according to the National Adrenal Diseases Foundation.

The syndrome is triggered by excess cortisol, known as the stress hormone. And according to Little Things, it can be due to adrenal glands producing too much cortisol, either on their own or because certain medications for arthritis and asthma are accelerating production.

On the other hand, stretchmarks, weight gain and even type 2 diabetes can also be related. It’s best to consult with your doctor if needed.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Fortunately, it’s extremely rare, but it also causes growth of hairs on the chin. It’s a condition which is generally diagnosed at birth, and those who suffer from it are made aware of the situation.

Pregnancy or birth control

We know the huge impact that pregnancy has on a woman’s body. So, a little hair on the chin may appear as a result. But generally it’s temporary and there’s nothing to worry about.

As for birth control pills, it depends on the type of pill. Some can even help prevent excessive hair growth.

How to get rid of unwanted hairs on the chin?

Regardless of the cause, there are several ways to get rid of it. The easiest way is to simply shave, bleach or wax it off. Of course, there are also more long term options such as laser hair removal.

But in case you have any doubts or concerns it’s best to consult with your doctor about it, especially before trying to remove or “cure” it.