While the amount of female body hair can variable considerably, women typically grow very fine, barely detectable hair on the chin, lips, abdomen chest or back. When hair growth in these areas becomes thicker and darker it is referred to as hirsutism. Hirsutism develops when male hormones called androgens over-stimulate hair follicles. In some cases hirsutism is a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome or POS. POS results from an imbalance of the female sex hormones. Certain herbs and other natural remedies may discourage and remove unwanted hair growth in women. Always consult with your health care provider about using herbs.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh contains plant-based estrogens called phytoestrogens and is sometimes used to relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. Black cohosh may also be an effective herbal remedy for hirsutism due to its anti-androgenic effects notes the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. Touch base with your health care provider about using herbs for reducing unwanted hair.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is most often used to relieve for urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland but may also treat hair loss and hormonal imbalances, reports the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Saw palmetto may reduce unwanted hair growth in women by inhibiting some of the effects of the male hormone testosterone. Ask your health practitioner about taking herbs for hirsutism.
Plucking
Tweezers can remove small amounts of hair and is most often used to clear away facial hair, notes the Mayo Clinic. Plucking has to be repeated periodically to keep unwanted hair at bay.
Shaving
Shaving is an inexpensive and effective, albeit temporary way to remove larger amounts of unwanted hair in women. Shaving may cause new hairs to appear thicker but does not cause more hair to growth, according to Medline Plus.
Sugaring
A natural remedy known as sugaring can reduce unwanted hair growth in women, notes Pioneer Thinking.com. Combine 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup honey and a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Apply the slightly-warmed ingredients to areas of unwanted hair with a popsicle stick or spatula.
Sprinkle a little cornstarch on the affected skin and cover with a strip of fabric. Rub the strip in the opposite direction of hair growth a few times. Quickly pull the fabric off your skin to clear unwanted hairs.
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