Our Services
Medical Information
Helpful Resources
Published on: 7/15/2026
What could cause the absence of armpit hair despite having pubic hair, and is it related to testosterone levels?
Not having armpit hair while having pubic hair is usually normal and does not automatically indicate low testosterone. Armpit and pubic hair follicles respond to androgens (like testosterone and DHT) with different sensitivities and timelines. Pubic hair often develops first and is triggered by lower hormone levels, while underarm hair typically requires stronger or more prolonged androgen stimulation. Genetics, ethnicity, age, and individual hair follicle sensitivity also play major roles. In most cases, this pattern reflects normal biological variation rather than a hormonal deficiency or medical concern.
However, if you're worried about hormone levels, delayed development, or other symptoms, it's worth investigating further. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify what may be causing this pattern, identify whether any hormonal or developmental factors are involved, and guide you on when to consult a healthcare provider. It's a fast, private way to gain personalized insight and confidently plan your next steps.
Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026
Important Next Steps
Not seeing your question? No worries.
Submit your own QuestionExplanation
After puberty, hormones like testosterone help grow body hair. However, not all hair follicles are the same. The follicles in the pubic area often need a lower amount of hormones to start growing hair, while the armpit follicles might need a bit more sensitivity to these hormones.
This means that even if testosterone levels are normal, some men may grow pubic hair but have little or no armpit hair because the hair in the armpit does not respond as strongly. Genetics also play a role, as your body might simply be more or less sensitive in certain areas.
Other factors like the way your cells use and react to hormones (known as androgen receptor sensitivity) can influence this too. In most cases, this difference doesn't mean that there is a problem with your testosterone levels. Instead, it is just a natural variation in how your body develops hair. If you're concerned about hormonal balance or other symptoms you're experiencing, taking a free symptom checker test can help you understand what might be going on before speaking with a doctor.
(References)
Grymowicz M, Rudnicka E, Podfigurna A, et al. Hormonal Effects on Hair Follicles. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2020 Jul;21(15):E5342. DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155342. PMID: 32731328; PMCID: PMC7432488.
Miranda BH, Charlesworth MR, Tobin DJ, Sharpe DT, Randall VA. Androgens trigger different growth responses in genetically identical human hair follicles in organ culture that reflect their epigenetic diversity in life. FASEB J. 2018 Feb;32(2):795-806. doi: 10.1096/fj.201700260RR. Epub 2018 Jan 4. PMID: 29046359; PMCID: PMC5928870.
Kumar P, Kumar N, Thakur DS, Patidir A. Male hypogonadism: Symptoms and treatment. J Adv Pharm Technol Res. 2010 Jul;1(3):297-301. doi: 10.4103/0110-5558.72420. PMID: 22247861; PMCID: PMC3255409.
Tell your friends about us.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.