PCOS Facial Hair Growth Supplements: A Natural Approach to Managing Excess Hair Growth
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects many women worldwide. One of the key symptoms of PCOS is hirsutism, or excessive facial hair growth, which is caused by an imbalance of hormones, particularly elevated levels of androgens (male hormones). Women with PCOS may notice unwanted facial hair growing in areas like the upper lip, chin, jawline, or chest. While there are several treatments available to manage this symptom, including prescription medications, many women are turning to natural supplements to help balance their hormones and reduce excessive facial hair growth. In this article, we’ll explore some popular PCOS facial hair growth supplements that can help women manage this condition naturally.
1. Spearmint Tea
How It Helps:
Spearmint tea has gained popularity as a natural supplement for managing PCOS symptoms, especially for reducing excess facial hair. Studies have shown that drinking spearmint tea may help lower androgen levels in women with PCOS, which in turn reduces facial hair growth. Spearmint has anti-androgenic properties that may help balance hormones and improve skin and hair conditions.
How to Use:
Drinking 1-2 cups of spearmint tea daily is often recommended. Be consistent with your tea consumption for best results.
2. Saw Palmetto
How It Helps:
Saw palmetto is a popular herb that is believed to block the enzyme that converts testosterone (an androgen) into its more potent form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This can be particularly beneficial for women with PCOS, as it helps reduce high androgen levels, which are responsible for excessive facial hair. Saw palmetto is often used to support hair health and may prevent further hair growth in areas affected by hirsutism.
How to Use:
Saw palmetto supplements are typically available in capsule form. The standard dosage varies, but it is generally recommended to take 320 mg of saw palmetto extract daily. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
3. Inositol (Myoinositol and D-Chiro Inositol)
How It Helps:
Inositol is a type of sugar that is often recommended for managing PCOS and improving insulin resistance. For women with PCOS, inositol supplements, particularly a combination of myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol, can help regulate insulin levels and restore a healthier hormone balance. This can, in turn, reduce the production of androgens, thus helping to reduce facial hair.
How to Use:
Inositol supplements are commonly available in powder or capsule form. A common recommendation is to take 2-4 grams of myo-inositol and 200-400 mg of D-chiro inositol daily. Again, consult your healthcare provider to determine the correct dosage for you.
4. Licorice Root
How It Helps:
Licorice root is another herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support hormonal health. Studies have shown that licorice root may help reduce testosterone levels in women with PCOS. By lowering androgen levels, it can help with managing unwanted facial hair growth.
How to Use:
Licorice root is commonly available in capsule and tea form. If using capsules, follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage. Drinking licorice root tea once or twice daily may also be beneficial.
Note: Licorice root should be used cautiously in women with high blood pressure, as it may increase blood pressure levels in some individuals.
5. Zinc
How It Helps:
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a role in many biological functions, including hormone regulation. It has been shown that zinc deficiency may exacerbate hormonal imbalances and contribute to symptoms like hirsutism. Zinc can help lower testosterone levels and has been shown to support the treatment of PCOS-related facial hair growth.
How to Use:
Zinc supplements are available in various forms, including zinc gluconate and zinc citrate. The general recommended dosage is 15-30 mg per day. However, it’s important not to exceed the recommended dosage, as excessive zinc intake can interfere with the absorption of other essential minerals like copper.
6. Vitamin D
How It Helps:
Many women with PCOS have lower levels of vitamin D, which is linked to a variety of symptoms, including irregular periods and excessive facial hair. Studies suggest that increasing vitamin D levels can help regulate insulin and androgen levels, potentially reducing hirsutism. Vitamin D is essential for overall hormonal balance and can help address the root causes of excessive hair growth in women with PCOS.
How to Use:
Vitamin D supplements are commonly available in capsules and liquid form. A typical dose is 1000-2000 IU per day, but a blood test can help determine if you need a higher dosage. Always consult your doctor to assess your vitamin D levels and get a proper recommendation.
7. Ashwagandha
How It Helps:
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used to reduce stress and balance hormones. For women with PCOS, stress management is crucial as stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and lead to increased androgen production. Ashwagandha can help lower cortisol levels and improve thyroid function, which may indirectly reduce the excessive facial hair growth associated with PCOS.
How to Use:
Ashwagandha supplements are available in capsule and powder forms. The typical recommended dose is 300-500 mg of ashwagandha extract daily. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are taking medications for thyroid or adrenal conditions.
8. Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex)
How It Helps:
Chaste tree berry, also known as Vitex, is a herb that has been traditionally used to treat hormonal imbalances in women. It works by stimulating the pituitary gland, which in turn helps balance estrogen and progesterone levels. By improving overall hormonal health, Vitex may help reduce excess androgen production, thus leading to a reduction in facial hair growth.
How to Use:
Vitex is commonly available in capsules or liquid extract form. The typical recommended dose is 400-500 mg of Vitex extract daily. It may take several weeks to see noticeable results, so consistency is key.
Final Thoughts
Managing facial hair growth due to PCOS doesn’t have to involve harsh treatments or expensive procedures. Many women find relief from hirsutism through natural supplements that support hormonal balance and reduce androgen levels. Supplements like spearmint tea, saw palmetto, inositol, licorice root, and others can be powerful tools in a comprehensive treatment plan for PCOS-related facial hair growth.
Before incorporating any new supplements into your routine, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure they’re safe for you and won’t interfere with any existing medications. By using the right supplements, you can support your body in managing PCOS symptoms more effectively, while achieving smoother, hair-free skin.