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Extra facial or body hair, or hormonal acne

Also called: Hirsutism, hormonal acne, PCOS symptoms, excess hair

Extra facial or body hair, or acne that flares with your cycle, is often caused by higher levels of male-type hormones (androgens). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause in women. Treatment can lower hormone levels and improve skin and hair. Fast-growing hair with a deepening voice should be checked quickly.

Common causesPCOS, family traits, medicines, adrenal or ovarian problems
Usually serious?Usually not dangerous
Get checked ifIt's new, worsening, or with irregular periods
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Hirsutism is coarse, dark hair growing in a male-type pattern, such as the upper lip, chin, chest, or back. It often comes with acne and irregular periods when caused by PCOS.

Some people naturally have more body hair due to family background. Less often, extra hair comes from adrenal problems, Cushing syndrome, medicines, or a hormone-producing tumor, especially if it appears quickly.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonNew or worsening extra hair or acne. Irregular or missed periods. Weight gain, dark velvety skin, or trouble getting pregnant. Hair growth that appears quickly, or with a deeper voice, hair loss at the temples, or a growing clitoris.

Causes

Common causes include polycystic ovary syndrome, family traits, and menopause. Other causes include congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Cushing syndrome, high prolactin, thyroid problems, medicines (testosterone, some steroids, minoxidil), and, rarely, ovarian or adrenal tumors.

OwieClear has pages on 2 conditions that can cause extra facial or body hair, or hormonal acne. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Hirsutism (extra hair growth)See a doctor if it doesn't get better

    Dark, coarse hair in a male-type pattern in women, like on the face, chest, or back.

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)See a doctor if it doesn't get better

    A hormone condition that can cause irregular or missed periods, extra facial or body hair, acne, weight gain, and trouble getting pregnant.

What you can do at home

  • Keep a healthy weight; even modest weight loss can lower androgen levels in PCOS.
  • Use gentle hair removal like shaving, waxing, or creams.
  • Wash your face gently and use non-comedogenic products.
  • Track your periods.

Medicines

Birth control pills, spironolactone, and a prescription cream (eflornithine) can reduce hair growth. Acne treatments help skin. Laser hair removal or electrolysis can remove hair longer-term. Metformin may help with PCOS.

At the doctor

The provider will check your hormones and look for a cause.

Questions you may be asked

  • When the hair or acne started and how fast
  • Your periods
  • Weight changes
  • Medicines
  • Family history

The exam

A physical exam, including skin and hair pattern.

Tests

  • Testosterone and other hormone blood tests
  • Blood sugar and cholesterol
  • A pelvic ultrasound

Prevention

Healthy habits help with PCOS.

  • Stay active
  • Keep a healthy weight
  • Follow up regularly

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

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Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.