If your mother or grandmother tended to have a few hairs on her chin, chances are you will too. Genetics largely determines the density and location of your hair follicles. It’s a bit like your eye color or hair shape: it’s part of your biological heritage.

Hair cycles, well-established phases

What is less well known is that body hair, just like head hair, follows a very specific three-stage cycle:

Anagen: the active growth phase.

Catagen: a short transition phase where hair stops growing.

Telogen: the resting phase before hair falls out.

The duration of these phases can vary depending on the area of the body and the individual. This is why sometimes a hair seems to appear overnight when, in reality, it has been in a hidden growth phase under the skin for several weeks.

When should you consult a doctor?

In the vast majority of cases, the presence of a few hairs on the chin is a benign phenomenon, simply linked to hormonal or genetic variations. However, if you notice sudden, abundant facial hair growth accompanied by other symptoms such as irregular periods or severe acne, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare professional. Sometimes, these signs can indicate a more pronounced hormonal imbalance, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but rest assured, this is not always the case.

Taming your body hair, without feeling self-conscious

Chin hair can sometimes take us by surprise, but you don’t have to accept it if it bothers you aesthetically. Whether you choose to remove it with tweezers, wax, or consult a professional for more permanent solutions, the most important thing is to do what makes you feel most comfortable. After all, your body belongs to you, and it’s entirely up to you to decide how you want to take care of it.