If you're a woman, you've probably had a stray hair or two on your chin that you simply plucked away. It's a common occurrence. If hairs, however, occur all over your chin and in other places, like your upper lip, chest and back, it's a condition known as hirsutism. Hirsutism is the result of genetics, certain medications and underlying health problems or medical conditions. Once you figure out the cause of your hirsutism, you can remove the hair you have and manage its regrowth effectively.
Step 1
Determine the underlying reason for your chin hair. Have your doctor run tests to determine if you have a medical condition like polycystic ovarian syndrome, Cushing syndrome or adrenal tumors. These all cause unusual hair growth, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Begin treatment for any diagnosed conditions to begin managing your excess hair growth.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor about medications you're taking. Certain medications, especially steroids, can cause chin hair growth. In some cases, according to UMMC, you can take an alternative medication to avoid unwanted hair growth as a side-effect.
Step 3
Consider hormonal birth control pills. These pills can regulate hormonal imbalances that lead to chin hair growth, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 4
Remove hair at home with your preferred method, according to FamilyDoctor.org, such as waxing, shaving, tweezing, chemical hair removers or bleaching. Waxing, chemicals and plucking treatments last longer than shaving treatments but some consider them painful. Bleaching does not remove the hair, but makes it less noticeable. Hair removal methods like these don't remove hair permanently, but can help you manage symptoms.
Step 5
Consider a surgical hair removal procedure, like electrolysis or laser hair removal. These must be performed by licensed professionals and can be costly. They also run the risk of scarring and skin pigmentation changes, but they deliver long-lasting to permanent results, according to Family Doctor.org.
Step 6
Use a prescription hair remover. There are a few topical anti-androgen creams on the market that slow hair growth, according to Family Doctor.org. They only work as long as you use them, and you must first remove your chin hair through another hair removal method.
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