Causes of Excessive Lack of Body Hair in Women

Excessively sparse body hair in females may be caused by genetic factors, aging, hypothyroidism, hypopituitarism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other conditions. Management should be based on the specific situation. It is recommended to visit a hospital promptly and follow medical advice for treatment.

1. Genetic factors: Some women inherit a genetic tendency where their hair follicles are naturally less sensitive to androgens, resulting in sparse body hair. This is considered a normal physiological phenomenon and does not affect health. If appearance is a concern, mild depilatory creams may be used locally or laser hair removal can be considered, following a complete course of treatment to maintain long-term hair reduction.

2. Aging: As women age, hormonal levels gradually change, with a relative decrease in estrogen and reduced androgen activity. The stimulation of hair follicle growth weakens, leading to progressively sparser body hair. At this stage, maintaining adequate nutrition is important. Consuming more protein- and vitamin-rich foods such as milk and oranges is recommended.

3. Hypothyroidism: Autoimmune conditions or medications can cause reduced synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones, slowing metabolism and resulting in decreased body hair. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, drowsiness, and cold intolerance. Patients may use medications like levothyroxine sodium tablets, Yikang capsules, or hydrocortisone tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

4. Hypopituitarism: Pituitary disease or postpartum hemorrhage may cause this condition, leading to reduced pituitary secretion of gonadotropins and other hormones, which affects androgen production. This results in sparse body hair and may be accompanied by menstrual irregularities and decreased libido. It is recommended to use medications such as prednisone tablets, levothyroxine sodium tablets, and estradiol valerate tablets under medical supervision to regulate hormone levels and relieve symptoms.

5. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): This condition is usually caused by endocrine and metabolic abnormalities, often characterized by relatively high androgen levels. However, some patients may paradoxically present with sparse body hair, along with symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, obesity, and infertility. Symptoms can be managed by following medical advice to use medications such as metformin tablets, ethinyl estradiol cyproterone acetate tablets, and spironolactone tablets.

In daily life, moderate exercise such as jogging or swimming can help promote metabolism, maintain bodily functions, and support overall hair health.

References:

[1] Li Quanyang, Wu Guotai, Wang Ruiqiong. Research Progress on the Intervention of Flavonoid Components in Traditional Chinese Medicine on Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis Secretion Disorders in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Chinese Archives of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2025, 43(02): 146-152.

[2] Qu Xiaoxiao, Yang Hongjie, Chen Qingguang, et al. Study on TCM Syndrome Characteristics and Syndrome Types in Patients with Hypopituitarism. China Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, 2024, 39(07): 3802-3806.