Menopause is a major hormonal milestone that brings a variety of changes to a woman’s body—some expected, and others less so. One surprising and frustrating change for many women is unwanted hair growth, especially on the face. As estrogen levels decline and androgens (male hormones) become more dominant, hair can begin to appear in places it never has before, like the chin, upper lip, cheeks, and jawline. Understanding why this happens and what can be done about it can help you feel more in control and confident in your skin.
Why Does Unwanted Hair Growth Happen During Menopause?
Throughout your reproductive years, estrogen and progesterone help keep the influence of androgens in check. But once menopause begins and estrogen levels plummet, androgens—like testosterone—can have a stronger effect on hair follicles.
Here’s what’s going on:
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Hormonal Imbalance: The decrease in estrogen and relative increase in testosterone stimulate hair follicles in areas where women don’t usually grow coarse hair, especially on the face.
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Genetic Factors: Some women may be more genetically predisposed to developing facial hair in response to hormonal shifts.
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Insulin Resistance or PCOS: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can persist into midlife, or insulin resistance, can exacerbate unwanted hair growth.
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Age-Related Skin Changes: As skin becomes thinner and drier with age, new hair growth may become more noticeable and feel more coarse.
Where Does the Hair Show Up?
Unwanted hair growth during menopause often appears in male-pattern areas, such as:
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Chin
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Upper lip
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Sideburns or cheeks
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Jawline
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Neck
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Sometimes chest or abdomen
At the same time, many women notice thinning or complete loss of hair on their scalp, particularly around the crown or temples. This “hair redistribution” is another result of changing hormonal ratios.
Is It Normal?
Yes—unwanted hair growth is a very common part of menopause. Many women experience these changes as hormone levels shift. In some cases, however, excessive hair growth may be a sign of a medical condition known as hirsutism. Hirsutism is when women develop coarse, dark hair in areas where men typically grow hair—like the chin, chest, back, or abdomen. If hair growth is sudden, thick, or accompanied by other symptoms such as voice deepening or acne, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider to rule out other underlying conditions like adrenal or ovarian disorders.
What Can You Do About It?
There are several options for managing unwanted facial hair, depending on your comfort level, budget, and desired results.
At-Home Hair Removal Options
- Tweezing
Ideal for stray chin hairs. It's inexpensive and effective but can be time-consuming. - Waxing or Sugaring
Good for larger areas like the upper lip or cheeks. These methods remove hair from the root and keep skin smoother for weeks, though they can cause irritation or ingrown hairs. - Depilatory Creams
Chemical-based creams dissolve hair at the skin’s surface. Always do a patch test first to check for sensitivity. - Dermaplaning or Facial Razors
A gentle way to remove peach fuzz and stray hairs. Many women find it helpful for exfoliation as well. - Epilators
Small devices that pull hair from the root. Effective for coarse hair, though some find them painful.
Professional Hair Removal Treatments
- Laser Hair Removal
Uses light energy to destroy the hair follicle. It’s more effective on dark hair and light skin, though newer technologies have improved results for more skin tones. Multiple sessions are required. - Electrolysis
A permanent hair removal option that works on all hair colors. Each follicle is treated individually, so it can be time-consuming but very precise. - Threading
An ancient technique often used for shaping eyebrows and removing facial hair. It's precise and chemical-free.
Prescription Treatments
- Topical Creams (e.g., Vaniqa)
Prescription creams like Vaniqa (eflornithine) can slow facial hair growth when used regularly. - Hormone Therapy
If you’re already using menopausal hormone therapy (MHT or HRT), your doctor may adjust your dose to help balance androgen levels. - Anti-Androgen Medications
Some healthcare providers may prescribe medications like spironolactone to reduce androgen effects on hair growth.
Lifestyle Tips to Manage Hormonal Balance
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Healthy Diet: Focus on anti-inflammatory, nutrient-rich foods that support hormone balance, like leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean protein.
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Exercise: Regular movement can help improve insulin sensitivity and support hormonal equilibrium.
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Stress Management: Chronic stress can affect cortisol and androgen levels. Mindfulness, yoga, and deep breathing can help.
Emotional Impact and Self-Compassion
Unwanted facial hair can feel distressing, especially if it affects your self-image or confidence. But it’s important to remember that menopause brings changes for every woman—your body is not “failing.” It’s simply evolving.
Choosing to remove the hair or leave it is a personal choice. What matters most is what makes you feel comfortable and empowered.
Final Thoughts
Unwanted hair growth in menopause is both common and manageable. Understanding the root causes can help you make informed choices about treatment, and there’s no shortage of effective options—both at home and in professional settings. If the change is sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, talk to your doctor to rule out more serious conditions. Otherwise, remember: your beauty and worth are not defined by a few stray hairs.
Symptom Relief
Managing menopause symptoms can feel overwhelming, especially when effective solutions seem hard to find. From unexpected skin changes to frustrating hot flashes, these shifts can impact daily life and overall well-being. Explore our Symptom Relief page to discover products that other women have found helpful in managing their symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.
If you’ve found a product that has made a difference for you, let us know through our contact form—we’d love to share it with others!
Explore More
Want to dive deeper into menopause and its symptoms? Visit our Resources page, where you’ll find a collection of studies, articles, and books from trusted experts. Whether you're looking for the latest research or practical insights, these resources can help you better understand your body and make informed decisions about your menopause journey.
