Ask the Experts- February 2023

Dear Red Hot Mamas,

I am 56 and am suddenly getting facial hair. Why and what can I do? Thank you to the Red Hot Mamas.

Kate

Dear Kate,

The first thing you should do is to visit your doctor, especially if this has come on suddenly. However, it is normal for women to see an occasional stray facial hair as they get older. Hormonal changes do occur at menopause which may create an imbalance in estrogen and androgens levels. This may be the culprit of facial hair growth. Your doctor can check if it is related to menopause or if there is another cause. Some ways you can deal with it are: plucking the hairs with a slanted pair of tweezers and magnified mirror; bleaching the hairs; using depilatory creams; waxing them off; lasering them off but make sure you go to a board certified dermatologist to do this; and there is also a prescription drug available that slows hair growth. I hope this information is of help to you but again, it is important for you to discuss this concern with your doctor.