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Published on: 8/20/2026
Which hormone is responsible for increased facial hair growth in females with PCOS?
Excess facial hair in women with PCOS, known as hirsutism, is primarily caused by elevated androgen levels (male hormones such as testosterone). In PCOS, the ovaries and adrenal glands overproduce these hormones, which stimulate hair follicles on the face, chin, and upper lip to grow thicker, darker, and coarser hair. Insulin resistance—common in PCOS—can further amplify androgen production, worsening symptoms.
Because facial hair growth can also stem from other hormonal conditions, it's important to identify the root cause early. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you understand what may be driving your symptoms and guide your next steps toward the right care.
Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026
Quick answers
Frequently Asked Questions
4 answersThe most common questions women ask Ubie
- Most askedWhat natural methods are available to stop facial hair growth in females with PCOS?
- Is it possible to increase facial hair growth in individuals with PCOS, and why would this be desired?
- Unwanted Facial Hair? Why Your Body is Growing More & Medically Approved Next Steps for Hirsutism
- What PCOS Stands For, and How It Is Diagnosed
Concerned about your symptoms?
Explanation
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that can cause women to have more facial hair. This happens because of higher levels of male hormones called androgens in their bodies.
Key Points:
- Androgens: These are hormones like testosterone that are usually found in higher amounts in men. Women with PCOS have more of these hormones than usual.
- Hirsutism: This is the term used to describe extra hair growth on the face and body of women, and it is often caused by these higher androgen levels.
- Impact: While everyone has some androgens, women with PCOS have more, which leads to changes like more hair growth.
Understanding how androgens affect hair growth can help in managing PCOS symptoms. If you're experiencing unusual hair growth or other concerning symptoms, you can check your symptoms with a free AI-powered tool to better understand what might be happening. Treatments often focus on lowering these hormone levels or reducing their effects to help control hair growth.
(References)
Azziz R. (2003). The evaluation and management of hirsutism. Obstetrics and gynecology, 12738163.
Randall VA. (2008). Androgens and hair growth. Dermatologic therapy, 18844710.
Al-Bayyari N, Al-Domi H, Zayed F, Hailat R, & Eaton A. (2021). Androgens and hirsutism score of overweight women with .... Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland), 33010974.
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