The primary reason you have a lot of armpit hair is due to hormonal changes that occur during puberty.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Puberty and Hormones: One of the first signs of puberty is the development of hair in the underarms (and groin area). Shani Francis, MD mentions this is a common experience. (Note: Link is a placeholder as no link was provided in original references.)
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Hormonal Influence: Puberty triggers an increase in hormones called androgens, even in girls. While often associated with males, females also produce androgens. These hormones stimulate hair follicles, causing them to produce thicker, darker hair.
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Genetics: The amount of armpit hair you have is also significantly influenced by your genetics. If your parents or other family members have a lot of body hair, you are more likely to as well.
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Ethnicity: Ethnicity can play a role in hair growth. Certain ethnic groups tend to have more body hair than others.
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Individual Variation: It's important to remember that there's a wide range of "normal" when it comes to body hair. What constitutes "too much" is subjective and varies from person to person.
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When to be Concerned: If you experience a sudden and drastic increase in body hair accompanied by other symptoms like irregular periods, deepening voice, or acne, it's best to consult a doctor. This could indicate a hormonal imbalance.
In summary, increased armpit hair growth as a girl is primarily due to hormonal changes during puberty, but genetics and ethnicity also play a role.
