Why do women get facial hair?
It can be such an embarrassing problem. Beards and moustaches belong on the faces of men, not women! And yet, thousands of us suffer and deal with facial hair...nearly 10% of adult women have noticeable facial hair. But why?

For many it's a family trait. Those darn genetics, passing the trait on through the generations. Chances are that if your mother or grandmother had facial hair, you will too.

For others, facial hair is a symptom of hormonal imbalances. Not the "screaming from the rooftops threatening everyone who dares to get by without a chocolate offering" type of hormones, but in the same family.

Sometimes women simply overproduce male hormones. All women produce a certain amount of male hormones, but when there's an overproduction it can lead to unwanted hair growth. In cases where the problem doesn't appear until later in life, menopause is often a trigger. At menopause, estrogen production drops off, so the balance between male and female hormones can tip in the wrong direction.

Another cause for growth of facial hair can be a condition known as polycystic ovary syndrome. Facial hair is typically just one symptom. In addition to facial hair, you may also be experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, obesity and insulin resistance.

In very rare cases, and it must be stressed that these are rare cases, tumors can be at the root of facial hair issues. These tumors are typically located in the ovary or adrenal glands and there is often much more than just facial growth to indicate a problem.

When you see your electrologist for the first time, they will ask a series of questions to analyze your hair growth patterns and may suggest a visit to your doctor for simple blood tests to rule out and/or treat hormonal issues as you undergo your electrolysis treatments.

That's why it's so important to make sure your appointment is with an electrolysis professional who is dedicated to making sure your treatment is successful over the long haul.

To find a professional in your area, head on over to our Member Directory to find an electrologist in your area.