This is sometimes referred to as “peach fuzz” and develops normally during childhood.

People with PCOS hirsutism have coarse, visible, dark hairs growing in these parts of the body.

These hairs are referred to as androgenic hairs; the term “androgen” refers to male hormones liketestosterone.

A woman shaving face in mirror

Philipp Nemenz / Getty Images

Causes of Hirsutism

If your body makes too many androgens, you may experience unwanted hair growth.

It can also affect the face.

In addition to PCOS, several other conditions can cause hirsutism.

If needed, you may be referred to anendocrinologistwho specializes in hormonal disorders.

Options include:

For overweight people or those with obesity, weight loss can also help reduce PCOS hirsutism.

Summary

Hirsutism, or abnormal facial or body hair growth, is a symptom of PCOS.

Office on Women’s Health.Polycystic ovary syndrome.

Endocrine Society.Polycystic ovary syndrome.

Agrawal N.Management of hirsutism.Indian J Endocr Metab.

2013;17(7):77. doi:10.4103/2230-8210.119511