Hair grows on its own schedule based on genetics and various other factors. It’s a process that we often take for granted, or are in fact, annoyed by come swimsuit season. Men and women alike have natural methods that change the way their hair grows. How quickly, the thickness and color of the hair, and more.

One of these contributing factors comes through hormones. Yes, hormones. Increases and decreases have a direct effect on your hair and understanding how this process works can give you a better idea of what to look for in terms of hair growth.

Male Growth Hormones: Androgens

Androgen is a category of male-based hormones; it includes testosterone. Androgens cause the hair to grow in more quickly, including on the face and entire body (not just your head). More common in men, this is the cause for men’s thicker facial hair and likely thicker body hair compared to their female counterparts.

In women, small amounts of androgens are produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. For women and men alike, hormones decrease after the age of 40, which usually means hair growth slows or comes in finer consistencies.

Hormones can also lead to a certain type of male baldness. As testosterone slows, it causes the hair to slow or stop in growth, leading to balding at a younger age.

Female Growth Hormones: Estrogen

In contrast, estrogen is a hormone that actually slows and softens hair growth. It creates finer and softer hair; this is why many women grow less hair, and thinner hair, than men.

Menopause can also cause a spike in hair growth due to drops in estrogen levels. (Often where it’s not wanted, such as on the face … but don’t worry, the wax artists at MKP have you covered!)

Hair Growth and Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a unique time for hair growth and hair loss due to swift changing hormones throughout the body. In general, women usually experience thicker, fuller hair toward the end of their pregnancy, before experiencing hair loss a few months after the baby is born.

Pregnant women are also likely to experience hair growth in new places, such as on the face, or thicker/darker hair on their belly. (Yes, we have a belly waxing service!)

How to Handle Hair Growth Changes

Managing unwanted hair growth is a personal preference. However, when receiving hair removal services from MKP, we will work with you to look at individual hair growth, patterns, and schedules. Each person is different, though our trained professionals know the best way to approach hair removal based on your hair.

Different types of wax will work best for various types of hair. While following growth patterns and identifying aspects like ingrown hairs can offer a better, longer-lasting waxing experience.

Meanwhile, consider your age or any changing hormones for a better insight into your hair growth, or how it might change in months to come.

To learn more about hormones and hair growth, or to book your next appointment, get in touch!