Why Do I Have So Much New Hair Growth on My Head, Woman?
Increased hair growth can stem from several factors. Let's explore the possibilities.
Women naturally produce low levels of androgens (male hormones). Elevated androgen levels can trigger unwanted hair growth. While the precise cause is often unknown, a family history of this condition is common. [Source: Women normally produce low levels of male hormones (androgens). If your body makes too much of this hormone, you may have unwanted hair growth. In most cases, the exact cause is never known. The condition often runs in families.] A doctor can perform tests to determine if hormonal imbalances are contributing. This increased hair growth might appear in unusual areas or be unexpectedly thick.
Genetics and Hair Follicle Activity
Your genetic makeup significantly influences hair growth patterns. The amount of hair you have is determined by your genes. [Source: How much hair you have on your body and head is also determined by your genes.] Some women may simply be genetically predisposed to having thicker or more abundant hair growth than others. This may also manifest as the reactivation of previously dormant hair follicles.
Hair Growth Cycle Changes
Hair growth occurs in cycles: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Stress, illness, or hormonal fluctuations can alter these cycles, potentially leading to increased hair growth or shedding. [Source: While estrogen keeps hairs in the growing (anagen) phase, your stress hormones (like cortisol) will start the shedding (exogen) phase, which…]. Short hairs in thinning areas are often a sign of new growth, starting as small dark spots. [Source: Short hairs in thinning areas are usually a sign of hair growth. These hairs may start out as small dark spots on your scalp as they begin to grow from the hair…]. This doesn't necessarily mean more overall hair, but rather an increased number of visible hairs in a given area due to a shift in the growth cycle.
Distinguishing New Growth from Other Changes
It's important to distinguish between true new hair growth and other phenomena like the emergence of vellus hair (peach fuzz) or the shedding of terminal hair followed by regrowth. [Source: Your shorter hairs — like eyelashes, arm and leg hair, and eyebrows —have a short anagen phase (about one month). Your scalp hair can last up to six years or…]. Vellus hair is fine and unpigmented, while terminal hair is coarser and pigmented. Changes in hair density can also be a result of aging where many hair follicles stop producing new hairs. [Source: Many hair follicles stop producing new hairs. Men may…].
Seeking Professional Advice
If you're concerned about sudden or significant changes in your hair growth, consulting a dermatologist or healthcare professional is advisable. They can identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary. This is particularly important if the changes are accompanied by other symptoms.
