Unwanted Facial Hair During Menopause: Causes, Remedies, and the Best Removal Methods
- oaca
- Apr 2
- 5 min read
The Curious Case of Julia Pastrana – And Why Facial Hair is Nothing New
In the 19th century, Julia Pastrana, a woman born with a rare condition called hypertrichosis terminalis, became a figure of both fascination and exploitation. This condition caused thick hair growth across her entire body, including her face, and led to her being paraded as the “Ape Woman” in Victorian sideshows. Despite the cruel objectification she endured, Julia was a talented performer, multilingual, and deeply intelligent. Her life story serves as a reminder of how society has historically treated women who didn’t conform to traditional beauty standards.
Fast forward to today, and while we’ve moved beyond Victorian sideshows, the topic of facial hair in women remains somewhat taboo. For many women, the sudden appearance of chin hairs during menopause is a relatable and often frustrating reality. The good news is that we’ve come a long way since Julia’s time—not only in understanding why this happens but also in finding ways to manage it effectively.
Why Do We Start Growing Facial Hair During Menopause?
Unwanted facial hair during menopause, medically known as hirsutism, is a common occurrence for many women. The primary culprit? Hormonal changes. During menopause, oestrogen levels decrease while androgens (male hormones like testosterone) become more dominant. This hormonal imbalance can lead to the growth of coarse, dark hairs on areas like the chin, upper lip, and jawline.
However, hormones aren’t the only factor at play. Here are some additional contributors:
Genetics: If your mum or grandmother dealt with facial hair, there’s a good chance you might too. Genetics often dictate how our bodies respond to hormonal changes.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), adrenal disorders, or even certain medications can exacerbate facial hair growth.
Insulin Resistance: Higher insulin levels in the body can increase androgen activity, further contributing to the development of facial hair.
While completely normal, many women prefer to manage these rogue hairs rather than embrace them. Thankfully, there are plenty of options available to suit every budget and preference.
Best Facial Hair Removal Methods During Menopause
Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a long-term solution, there’s a hair removal method out there for you. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide what works best.
1. Budget-Friendly At-Home Hair Removal
For those looking for simple and affordable solutions, these methods are perfect for managing stray hairs:
Plucking: Ideal for removing individual hairs. A good pair of tweezers and a magnifying mirror can make all the difference. Pro tip: Always pluck in the direction of hair growth to avoid irritation.
Bleaching: If you don’t want to remove the hair but prefer to make it less noticeable, bleaching is a great option. Just be mindful of sensitive skin.
Waxing Strips: Perfect for larger areas like the upper lip or jawline. However, if you have sensitive skin, proceed with caution as waxing can cause irritation.
Dermaplaning: This involves using a gentle facial razor to remove peach fuzz and lightly exfoliate the skin. Not only does it leave your skin smooth, but it also creates a flawless base for makeup.
Pro Tip: Always prep your skin before hair removal to prevent irritation. Exfoliating beforehand can remove dead skin cells and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.
2. Mid-Range Hair Removal Solutions
If you’re looking for longer-lasting results but don’t want to break the bank, consider these options:
Epilators: These handheld devices pluck multiple hairs at once, leaving your skin smooth for up to four weeks. They’re particularly effective for the chin and jawline.
Home Laser Hair Removal Devices: While not as powerful as professional treatments, at-home IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) devices can significantly reduce hair growth over time with consistent use.
Pro Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using home laser devices to ensure safety and effectiveness.
3. High-End, Long-Term Hair Removal Treatments
For those seeking a more permanent solution, professional treatments offer the most effective results:
Laser Hair Removal: This method uses pulses of light to target hair follicles, reducing regrowth over time. Multiple sessions are required, but the results can be life-changing.
Electrolysis: The only FDA-approved permanent hair removal method, electrolysis destroys hair follicles individually using electric currents. While time-consuming, it’s incredibly effective for long-term results.
Pro Tip: Always consult a licensed professional for these treatments to ensure your safety and achieve the best results.
Recommended Products from Our Shop
At Of a Certain Age, we’ve curated a selection of the best tools to help you manage facial hair with ease:
Additional Tips for Managing Facial Hair During Menopause
Managing facial hair isn’t just about removal—it’s also about maintaining healthy, irritation-free skin. Here are some additional tips:
- Balance Hormones Naturally: Supplements like magnesium, zinc, or a menopause multivitamin can help support hormonal health. Always consult your doctor before starting new supplements.
- Stay Consistent with Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation can prevent ingrown hairs and keep your skin smooth.
- Consult a Dermatologist: If you’re unsure about the best hair removal method for your skin type, seek professional guidance.
Embrace Confidence at Every Stage
Let’s face it—every woman has at least one rogue chin hair that seems to grow back faster than we can pluck it. While it might feel frustrating, it’s important to remember that facial hair during menopause is a completely normal part of life.
Rather than letting it affect your confidence, take control with the tools and techniques that work best for you. Whether it’s a quick tweeze over your morning coffee or investing in a luxurious laser treatment, the choice is yours. And while we’re at it—couldn’t our bodies at least let us keep our eyebrows instead?
✨ Tame those whiskers with pride and confidence!✨
References
1. Julia Pastrana’s Story: Semonin, P. (1996). *Monsters of the Market: The Freak Show as a Commodity Spectacle in Victorian England*. Victorian Studies, 39(4), 599–630.
2. Hormonal Changes and Facial Hair Growth: Mayo Clinic. (2023). Hirsutism - Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from [www.mayoclinic.org](https://www.mayoclinic.org).
3. Genetics and Facial Hair: National Institutes of Health. (2022). *Genetic Factors in Hormonal Imbalances*. Retrieved from [www.nih.gov](https://www.nih.gov).
4. PCOS and Facial Hair: Rotterdam ESHRE/ASRM-Sponsored PCOS Consensus Workshop Group. (2004). Revised 2003 consensus on diagnostic criteria and long-term health risks related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Human Reproduction, 19(1), 41–47.
5. Hair Removal Techniques: American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2023). *Hair Removal Methods: Pros and Cons*. Retrieved from [www.aad.org](https://www.aad.org).
6. Electrolysis for Permanent Hair Removal: U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Electrolysis Overview. Retrieved from [www.fda.gov](https://www.fda.gov).
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