Published on: 6/12/2025
Is it possible to increase facial hair growth in individuals with PCOS, and why would this be desired?
Increasing facial hair growth in individuals with PCOS is possible using treatments like minoxidil, but the desired outcome depends on personal preferences, such as gender identity or aesthetic goals.
Explanation
Some people with PCOS may want to increase facial hair growth for various reasons, including aligning with their gender identity or personal aesthetic goals. Research shows that minoxidil can successfully promote facial hair growth, as noted in Reference 1. This treatment is often used for hair growth on the scalp but can also be applied to the face.
On the other hand, some individuals with PCOS experience unwanted facial hair growth, known as hirsutism. Reference 2 discusses the use of spironolactone, a medication that can reduce this unwanted hair growth by blocking certain hormones.
Gender-affirming hormone therapy, as discussed in Reference 3, can also influence hair growth patterns, including facial hair, to align with a person's gender identity.
Ultimately, whether someone wants to increase or decrease facial hair growth depends on their personal needs and goals.
(References)
- Pang KC, Nguyen TP, & Upreti R. (2021). Successful Use of Minoxidil to Promote Facial Hair Growth .... Frontiers in endocrinology, 34659117.
- Cumming DC. (1990). Use of spironolactone in treatment of hirsutism. Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine, 2357784.
- Tang GT, Zwickl S, Sinclair R, Zajac JD, & Cheung AS. (2023). Effect of gender-affirming hormone therapy on hair growth. Clinical and experimental dermatology, 37311161.
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