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Home Remedies to Stop Growth of New Hair

Some people find dealing with new hair growth in typically hairy areas of the body annoying. For others, disorders take this annoyance to a whole new level. Such is the case for women with hirsutism. In women, hirsutism is a disorder characterized by excessive hair growth, especially in areas where only men typically grow hair, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Treatment options include prescription medications and electrolysis, but for women with moderate or mild cases of the disorder, home remedies often provide adequate treatment.

  1. Lifestyle

    • A few simple lifestyle changes often result in a successful reduction in hair growth. This especially holds true for women dealing with hirsutism as a symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), according to the University of California National Center of Excellence in Women's Health. In these cases, reducing total body weight by just five to ten percent improves symptoms. Women with hirsutism should eat a healthy diet and include regular aerobic and strength training exercise in their daily routines.

    Supplements

    • In addition to eating a balanced diet, increased levels of certain vitamins and minerals may decrease the symptoms of hirsutism in some women. Examples include Calcium-D-Glucarate and Diindolylmethane (DIM). Try 200 mg of calcium-d-glucarate twice daily to detoxify hormones. DIM, found naturally in broccoli and cauliflower, should be taken daily in the amount of 120 mg to help regulate hormonal imbalances. Always consult your physician before beginning any supplement program.

    Herbs

    • Some herbs may help treat hirsutism and stop new hair growth, but these have not been well studied, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Herbs that may reduce symptoms include saw palmetto, chaste tree, black cohosh and spearmint tea. These herbs are thought to have anti-androgenic effects. Take only standardized extracts of herbs to ensure that the same amount of herb is included in each pill.

    Topical Treatments

    • Some nonprescription topical ointments help relieve symptoms of hirsutism. These include depilatories and other lotions. These treatments dissolve and soften hair and may slow hair growth, according to Colorado State University. While they will not stop new hair growth, these substances may provide satisfactory treatment for mild cases of hirsutism. Use these substances with care on sensitive skin, as they may irritate it.

    Manual Removal

    • Home methods of hair removal rarely stop new hair growth, technically speaking. For example, shaving simply cuts off the hair at the surface of the skin. Not only does hair growth continue, but new hair may be darker or thicker than before. Plucking hair with tweezers provides a more satisfactory method of hair removal and though it does not keep new hair from growing, it does slow regrowth since the hair is removed at the root. This means it will take longer for any new hair growth to appear on the surface of the skin. Waxing proves more effective than plucking hairs when there are many hairs spread over a larger area.

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