In a society where women are judged by impossible beauty standards, living with hirsutism feels like a battle for acceptance.
When we know that visible hair on a woman’s legs or underarms can provoke outrage in a society shaped by unattainable beauty standards, we can easily imagine the distress of women suffering from hirsutism.
This condition, often linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or menopause, causes excessive hair growth in areas where women typically have minimal hair: the chin, cheeks, stomach, or even back.
According to a 2006 study, 40% of women with hirsutism feel uncomfortable in certain situations, 75% experience anxiety, and 30% suffer from significant depression. Additionally, 67% constantly check their reflection in the mirror.
Hirsutism: More than just a physical burden
Sarah, 24, vividly remembers discovering her condition. In 2020, she noticed that the hair on her arms was becoming darker and thicker than usual. “I quickly realized something was wrong, so I sought medical advice.” After multiple doctor’s visits, she was diagnosed with PCOS—marking the beginning of a long battle.
A few months later, the hair spread to her face. “It’s a vicious cycle. The hair grows back too fast. If I don’t remove it, I feel suffocated.”
Rachel, who also has PCOS, shares a similar experience. “I’ve struggled with this since adolescence. I had a noticeable mustache, and in adulthood, thick hair began growing on my chin. I felt like I was losing my femininity, that I was unattractive.”
Beyond personal struggles, hirsutism can be socially overwhelming. Sarah has faced insensitive comments from strangers: “Is that a beard?”, “Some people don’t know what a razor is,” and “It looks like a jungle here.” These hurtful remarks highlight the rigid and unrealistic beauty standards imposed on women.
As a result, Sarah avoids intimate relationships and refrains from wearing makeup unless she is completely hair-free. “I love makeup, but the moment I have any facial hair, I feel like it’s even more noticeable.”
Letting go of unrealistic beauty standards
After years of struggling, Rachel decided to embrace her natural self. Now 27, she has learned to brush off comments, even using them to filter out negative people in her life. “When I don’t shave, I no longer feel guilty or ‘unkempt.’ My body hair is what it is—I can’t control it, so I’ve chosen to accept it.”
Perhaps the real solution lies in redefining femininity itself. Instead of fighting against it, maybe it’s up to us to determine what it means to be a woman, rather than conforming to imposed standards.
In a recent interview with Real Simple magazine (published February 13, 2025), model Heidi Klum revealed that she has facial and chest hair due to menopause. Yet, this change has not shaken her confidence.
Similarly, in the film Rosalie by Stéphanie Di Giusto, actress Nadia Tereszkiewicz plays a 19th-century “bearded woman”—a term often associated with hirsutism. In an April 2024 interview with Marie Claire, she spoke about her deep connection to the role: “She has an incredible will to live and faces society’s judgment head-on. Her beard doesn’t diminish her femininity—it defines it.”
To treat or to accept? Navigating hirsutism
There is no miracle cure for hirsutism, but several treatments can help reduce its impact.
- Medication: Spironolactone is commonly prescribed for PCOS, as it blocks testosterone’s effects on the skin. However, it does not work for everyone.
- Dietary Adjustments: Eva Lecoq, co-founder of SOVA (a supplement brand for women with PCOS), emphasizes the importance of a low-glycemic diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and fiber to balance hormones. Zinc, myo-inositol, and adaptogenic herbs may also help regulate hormonal imbalances.
- Permanent Hair Removal: Laser hair removal is most effective when combined with hormonal treatments like birth control. For facial hair, electrolysis—a method that permanently destroys hair follicles—offers the best long-term results. However, these treatments are rarely covered by insurance.
For emotional support, women affected by hirsutism can turn to online communities that openly discuss hyperpilosity (@laurane.rose, @raissadora). Sarah also recommends Les cheveux de la colère by Vicdoux (@lesdessinsdevicdoux on Instagram).
Sometimes, therapy can help those struggling with self-image. But one thing is clear—it’s time for beauty to be defined in more inclusive ways.
Why do PCOS and menopause cause hirsutism?
PCOS, a hormonal disorder affecting 6–13% of women worldwide (according to the WHO), leads to an overproduction of testosterone, which triggers excessive hair growth.
“This hormonal imbalance can also increase oil production, cause acne, and disrupt menstrual cycles,” explains Dr. Caroline Pouget, a dermatologist specializing in hormonal skin conditions.
Eva Lecoq adds that excess testosterone is converted into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which directly stimulates hair follicles, causing increased hair growth—especially in unexpected areas like the face.
Similarly, menopause can trigger hyperpilosity due to rising androgen levels, disrupting both the sebaceous glands and hair growth patterns.
Ultimately, whether women choose to treat hirsutism or embrace it, the conversation around body hair needs to shift—from a source of shame to a symbol of choice.
This article was originally published by Coralie Techer on the Marie Claire France website.
Translated and syndicated for Marie Claire Nigeria by Tobi Afolabi
