Irregular Body Hair Growth in Men

Thinning hair does not only happen on the head. Many men develop patchy or irregular hair growth all over their bodies. The situation can be remedied, but not using conventional wisdom.

Function

• Irregular hair growth in men is often a symptom of the same condition that is causing thinning hair on the head. The hair follicles may be clogged, or they may have simply stopped--or never started--producing hair.

Significance

• Patchy hair growth can indicate health issues. It may be a product of stress in the same way some types of balding are. It can also indicate a failure to develop on the part of your hair follicles.

Types

• Alopecia is a common cause of irregular body hair growth. A behavioral issue called trichotillomania (when men actually pull their hair out compulsively) may also be to blame. Fungal infections can also cause patchy hair growth.

Misconceptions

• Many men think that shaving regularly will resolve patchy hair growth issues. However, the appearance and feeling of thicker hair after shaving is an illusion caused by the texture of new-grown hair.

Prevention/Solution

• If you have patchy hair growth, you may be able to take medications to resolve it. However, since the causes are so varied, you will need to consult a physician before treating your patchy hair loss.

Warning

• Unexplained hair loss on any part of the body can indicate health problems. Consult your physician immediately if you experience a sudden onset of irregular body hair growth.