Hirsutism: hair on your chin, belly, and PCOS
Updated
In short
Hirsutism is thicker, darker hair in areas like the chin, upper lip, belly or chest. It comes from a sensitivity to androgens, and it's one of the most common signs of PCOS. Shaving doesn't make hair grow back thicker.
Why it happens
Androgens turn fine, light hair into thick, dark hair, especially in areas sensitive to these hormones. It can happen with normal hormone levels: your skin is simply more sensitive to them.
The options
- Shaving, waxing, tweezing: all safe, your choice.
- Laser or IPL: lasting reduction, works best on dark hair.
- Medical treatments: some act on hormones, to discuss with your doctor.
Laser and a treatment are often combined.
Talking about it
It's not just about looks: it's a medical sign that counts for the diagnosis. You have every right to bring it up.
Frequently asked questions
Does shaving make hair grow back thicker?
No. It's a myth: a cleanly cut hair feels coarser, but it isn't thicker and there aren't more of them.
Is laser permanent?
It greatly reduces hair, but touch-up sessions are often needed, especially with a hormonal issue.
Sources
- Teede et al., Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of PCOS, Human Reproduction, 2023
- Monash University, 2023 International PCOS Guideline
- World Health Organization, PCOS fact sheet
- Inserm, Syndrome des ovaires polykystiques (SOPK)
- NHS, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
This guide informs; it does not diagnose and does not replace medical advice. Information from the international PCOS guidelines (2023) and the WHO.