Hirsutism and PCOS: Why It Happens and What You Can Do About It
Hirsutism—aka unwanted facial or body hair—is one of the most frustrating and emotionally challenging symptoms of PCOS.
It affects up to 70% of women with PCOS and is caused by high androgen levels (male hormones like testosterone).
If you’ve ever felt self-conscious, frustrated, or overwhelmed by this symptom, you’re not alone. The good news is there are steps you can take to reduce it naturally.
What Causes Hirsutism in PCOS?
Hirsutism happens when androgen levels are too high, leading to thicker, darker hair growth in areas where men typically grow hair—like the face, chest, stomach, and back.
This excess androgen production is often driven by:
- Insulin resistance (which stimulates the ovaries to produce more testosterone)
- Chronic inflammation (which disrupts hormone balance)
- Poor liver detoxification (which slows the removal of excess hormones)
The key to managing hirsutism is addressing these root causes.
Let’s dive into what you can do to naturally balance your hormones and slow unwanted hair growth.
6 Ways to Reduce Hirsutism Naturally
1. Balance Blood Sugar
High insulin levels are one of the biggest triggers for excess androgens.
To stabilize blood sugar:
- Avoid sugar and processed carbs
- Prioritize protein, healthy fats, and fiber at every meal
- Eat regularly and avoid skipping meals
- Strength train and stay active
When blood sugar is balanced, insulin levels drop, and androgen levels follow.
2. Support Liver Detoxification
Your liver helps process and remove excess androgens.
You can support this process by:
- Eating cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts
- Staying hydrated (water + lemon is great!)
- Reducing alcohol and chemical exposure (plastics, pesticides, toxins in beauty products)
A well-supported liver = better hormone balance.
3. Lower Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is at the root of hormonal imbalances in PCOS. Lowering inflammation helps bring testosterone levels down naturally.
- Remove inflammatory foods like gluten, dairy, and processed foods
- Support gut health with fiber, probiotic foods, and collagen
- Get enough sleep and manage stress (cortisol spikes can drive inflammation)
4. Use Targeted Supplements
Certain supplements have been shown to help reduce androgens and support hormone balance:
- Spearmint tea – Naturally lowers testosterone when consumed daily
- Inositol – Supports insulin sensitivity and reduces excess androgens
- Zinc – Helps block testosterone from converting into DHT (the form that fuels hirsutism)
- Saw Palmetto – Can help reduce androgen-related hair growth
5. Shift Your Mindset & Build Confidence
Hirsutism can be emotionally tough. It can shake your confidence, and it’s easy to feel like your body is working against you.
But here’s the truth: You are not your symptoms.
While it takes time to see changes, you don’t have to wait to feel confident and empowered. You can choose to care for yourself now through self-love, self-care, and taking action to heal your body from the inside out.
6. Laser Hair Removal
While working on the root causes, laser hair removal can be an effective long-term option for reducing hair growth in affected areas. It works by damaging the hair follicle, slowing regrowth over time.
The best results come when paired with hormonal balance, so consider laser treatments while also addressing the internal drivers of hirsutism.
How PCOS Made Manageable Helps You Reduce Hirsutism
Inside PCOS Made Manageable, we take a step-by-step approach to balancing hormones, lowering androgens, and reducing symptoms like hirsutism naturally.
✨ A clear nutrition plan to stabilize blood sugar & reduce inflammation
✨ Supplement guidance to support hormone balance
✨ Lifestyle changes to optimize metabolism & stress response
✨ Accountability & coaching to keep you on track
If you’re ready to stop the trial and error and follow a proven plan to balance your hormones and feel more confident in your skin, I’d love to help you.
Let's chat!
Click here to book a call with me 🫶🏼
