Menopause & perimenopause

How do I prevent growing facial hair in menopause?

Growth of facial hair during menopause is typically caused by an increase in the ratio of androgen (testosterone) to estrogen. This does not necessarily point to a problem, but the increase in facial hair can be bothersome.

One of the best ways to prevent androgen excess is by eating a balanced diet rich in quality proteins, complex carbohydrates, and colorful fruits and vegetables. When the body is getting too many refined carbohydrates, such as simple sugars, white bread or pasta, it produces more insulin. And one of the ways the body can respond to high insulin is by increasing androgen production.

Other ways to prevent unwanted hair growth include balancing your hormones, taking a high-quality multivitamin to fill in any nutritional gaps, reducing stress, and keeping your body fat under 30%. Both stress and excess fat can lead to increased androgen production.

Prevention is ideal because once facial hair is present, reduction techniques such as laser hair removal, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), or electrolysis are the only ways of achieving permanent removal. Waxing is also an option, though only temporary.

For more information on androgen dominance and hair growth and loss, read our article on coping with unwanted hair growth.

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• Menopause FAQ's
• An intro to menopause and perimenopause

 

Original Publication Date: 02/23/2007
Last Modified: 02/16/2010
Principal Author: Marcy Holmes, NP, Certified Menopause Clinician