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Why have I noticed a mustache growing despite no medicines?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a female, 20 years old, and I have noticed a mustache growing. I am worried about it. I am not taking any medications, so what could be the cause?

Kindly advise.

Answered by Dr. Misha Saghir

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir is a dedicated dermatologist with expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns. Her areas of expertise include acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, skin infections, and other hair and nail disorders. With previous experience as a general practitioner in government healthcare, Dr. Misha Saghir combines strong clinical knowledge with a patient-centered approach. She provides evidence-based online consultations, practical treatment plans, clear guidance, and appropriate follow-up care to help patients achieve healthy skin, hair, and nails.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I completely understand the concern. Please know that this is a very common issue, and many young women experience similar worries.

Facial hair over the upper lip, commonly referred to as a mustache, in females is usually related to increased sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens or a mild increase in these hormones. In many cases, hormone levels are within the normal range, but the skin and hair follicles respond more strongly to them. This is especially noticeable during the late teenage years and early adulthood, when hormonal balance is still stabilizing. Genetics also plays a significant role. If women in the family have facial hair, similar patterns may be seen even when all test results are normal.

One important condition that is considered in such situations is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS may present with facial hair growth, irregular menstrual cycles, acne, weight gain, or thinning of scalp hair, although not all symptoms may be present at the same time. In some individuals, facial hair may be the first or only noticeable sign.

Some other uncommon causes may be a dysfunction of the thyroid gland, high prolactin levels, or an imbalance of adrenal hormones. But in case of some young women with minor facial hair, sometimes there is no underlying disease that can cause this problem.

At this stage, a basic medical evaluation is recommended rather than undue concern. A dermatologist or gynecologist may advise simple blood investigations such as:

  • A total testosterone.

  • Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS).

  • Luteinizing hormone (LH) to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio.

  • Prolactin levels.

  • Thyroid function tests.

A pelvic ultrasound examination may also be suggested if polycystic ovary syndrome is suspected. These investigations help determine whether the hair growth is hormonally driven or genetically influenced.

It all depends on the cause behind the condition, as well as the degree of hair growth. In case of light hair growth, cosmetic treatments like threading, waxing, bleaching, and laser hair removal can help safely and effectively. When applied properly, laser hair removal can give long-lasting results in terms of hair growth reduction.

In case there is some kind of hormonal imbalance, then medical treatment is needed in order to prevent any further hair growth. Medical treatment, of course, is only prescribed after a thorough examination. Healthy body weight, exercising and proper nutrition can regulate hormones naturally.

Most importantly, this condition does not reduce femininity or self-worth. Many healthy and confident women experience the same concern, and it is highly manageable with appropriate guidance and care.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At June 2, 2026
Reviewed At July 8, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir is a dedicated dermatologist with expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns. Her areas of expertise include acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, skin infections, and other hair and nail disorders. With previous experience as a general practitioner in government healthcare, Dr. Misha Saghir combines strong clinical knowledge with a patient-centered approach. She provides evidence-based online consultations, practical treatment plans, clear guidance, and appropriate follow-up care to help patients achieve healthy skin, hair, and nails.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Misha Saghir is a dedicated dermatologist with expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of skin, hair, nail, and cosmetic concerns. Her areas of expertise include acne, pigmentation, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma, skin infections, and other hair and nail disorders. With previous experience as a general practitioner in government healthcare, Dr. Misha Saghir combines strong clinical knowledge with a patient-centered approach. She provides evidence-based online consultations, practical treatment plans, clear guidance, and appropriate follow-up care to help patients achieve healthy skin, hair, and nails.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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