Facial hair growth in men is probably something that does not bother men at all; however in women it is something that many people may find very disturbing. For women, the experience could be distressing, agonizing and embarrassing. They are willing to go through simple to extreme methods to get rid of this problem. Nevertheless, it is also equally important to know what causes the problem so that it can be properly removed. Facial hair could be due to several factors. For instance, there are people from certain ancestry who are genetically inclined to facial hair, such as Mediterranean, Jewish, and Eastern European ancestry. Some other people have indeed a family history of facial hair growth in women. Apart from these hereditary reasons, facial hair growth in women may come as a result of some other issues.

The most common cause is hormonal imbalance in women. Women have both estrogens and androgens, the latter of which could be found more in women as they age. Naturally, as people age, the levels of both hormones decline; however, if the level of androgens, the male hormones, are greater than that of estrogens, stray hairs will grow more like that found in men. Some medication can also trigger the hormonal imbalance and then stimulate the growth of stray, darker, coarser hair. Some examples of these medications include phenytoin, cyclosporine, anabolic steroids, combination medications with testosterone such as estratest, and minoxidil (used for high blood pressure as well as baldness in men). Excessive facial hair can also be a result of physical and medical issues, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, obesity, and medical condition called Hirsutism which can be hereditary. It may also be related to adrenal tumors.

It is understandable if women have been looking for ways to remove facial hair permanently. However, there is no an easy fool-proof permanent way to deal with facial hair. Women may need to try various treatments, such as hormonal therapy (estrogens and progesterone), shaving, waxing, laser, electrolysis, and medications (using a prescription cream). Electrolysis is claimed by many dermatologists to be the only method for permanent removal. For severe facial hair condition, visiting a doctor so that a proper diagnosis can be done is highly recommended. This will make sure that the problem is not medical, and then the doctor will be able to help find ways to fix the problem.