What Can I Do About my Hairy Face?

Question

Its all over my face (forehead, cheeks, neck etc). In real life its quite visible as some people have pointed out. I did a stupid mistake a few ears ago of shaving my entire face. What affordable treatment should I undergo to get rid of these facial hairs permanently? Is laser a good idea?

Michael H. Gold, MD · Answer

The fact that you shaved your face several years ago may have left you with the kind of hair growth that we see in the picture – fine dark hair on somewhat of a darker skin tone. So if this is somewhat correct, you should find a board-certified dermatologist who knows about removing hair in all skin types and how to deal with finer hairs, always a little more difficult to remove. Longer wavelength lasers at appropriate energies and multiple treatments may be required to make this an effective treatment – and keeping a positive attitude to get the best you can get from the procedures.

Bernard Tan, MBBS, MRCSB · Answer

Hi!
you can consider permanent hair reduction on the face using BBL or lasers as an alternative to frequency shaving or waxing

Daniel Shapiro, MD · Answer

A wide variety of medical lasers and light systems are used to remove unwanted hair, however most lasers are not effective for all skin types and hair colors. The Elos laser hair removal system is designed for permanent hair reduction by combining both optical and radiofrequency energy to deliver satisfying, longer lasting results with less discomfort than previous laser systems. Faces, backs, arms, legs, faces, and bikini lines can be treated including those individuals with darkly pigmented skin.

Emily Altman, MD · Answer

Laser hair removal may work for this, however, there are a few considerations here:

	
		fine hair responds to laser more poorly than coarse dark hair
	
		if the hair has a substantial amount of red, blond or gray in it, it will most likely not respond at all.
	
		it is very important to have the procedure done with the proper laser by a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon with training and experience in laser hair removal.  Improper (too low) settings on the laser may actually induce more hair growth.  When the settings are too high, they may cause discolorations and burns.

William M. Ramsdell, MD (retired) · Answer

Do others in your family have facial hair like this? I suggest that you have a hormonal work-up especially if you have irregular menses, acne or hair around your nipples or below your navel. Otherwise, laser is the best option. Be aware that maintenance treatments will be necessary. Consider also treatment with spironolactone.

	 Hope this helps.

What Can I Do About my Hairy Face?

Answers (6)

Answer: Treatments for fine hair on the face

Answer: Treatments for fine hair on the face

Answer: Facial Hair

Answer: Facial Hair

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Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What Can I Do About my Hairy Face?

Answers (6)

Answer: Treatments for fine hair on the face

Answer: Treatments for fine hair on the face

Answer: Facial Hair

Answer: Facial Hair

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.