Natural Remedy to Stop Hair Growth

Removing unwanted hair can be time-consuming, costly and painful. Natural hair-removal remedies, on the other hand, are cost-effective, pain-free and don't take much time at all to use. Natural remedies will not completely stop the growth of unwanted hair, but they do reduce the amount that is produced as well as increase the amount of time it takes for it to grow back.

Causes

Excessive hair growth usually results from a condition called hirsutism. According to the Mayo Clinic, hirsutism is caused by excess androgen levels or from an increased sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens. Androgens are steroid hormones that control and regulate masculine characteristics such as facial hair. So the higher your androgen levels (or the higher your hormonal imbalance), the more hair that will be produced. The best-known andgrogen is testosterone. However, it is the andorgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that is actually responsible for making excess hair grow. High androgen levels can be a side effect of polycystic ovary syndrome or Cushing's syndrome. Certain medications can also cause increased levels of androgens.

Diet and Exercise

One of the side effects of obesity is an increased level of androgens. Losing weight results in a reduction of androgen levels. The University of Maryland Medical Center published a paper that listed ways to reduce androgen levels naturally. One of the easiest remedies was eating a clean diet. Diets should consist of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, beans, lean protein and low-fat dairy products. It also recommends exercising at least four times a week for at least 30 minutes per session.

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins E and B6 as well as the minerals chromium, magnesium, zinc and copper can assist with reducing the amount of unwanted hair. Each one of these nutrients helps either to stabilize glucose levels or decrease androgen levels outright. Stabilizing your blood sugar is important because when it spikes, the production of androgens is increased. "Chromium, for example, helps the body process insulin more efficiently, which leads to better glucose stabilization which can lead to lower amounts of androgens," says Dr. Nancy Dunne on her blog "How To Control Hirsutism" (www.pcos.insulitelabs.com). Consult your doctor before beginning any supplement regimen.

Herbal Option

There is also an herbal option that can help to reduce unwanted hair. Saw palmetto extract has shown in studies to be effective at inhibiting the production of DHT. DHT is one of the hormones that andgrogens can be turned into and which is directly responsible for hair growth. Consuming saw palmetto extract inhibits androgens from being turned into DHT, therefore thwarting unwanted hair growth. According to pharmacist Lisa Chavis of Jefferson, N.J., "It takes about three months of continuous use to see results." Talk with your doctor to see if taking saw palmetto extract is a good remedy for you.