Traditional Chinese Medicine Practicioner

by Dr. Alex Heyne Contributor

How to Stop Facial Hair Growth Due to PCOS Naturally

How to stop facial hair growth due to PCOS naturally is a question many women ask when faced with the frustrating challenge of unwanted hair, often caused by hormonal imbalances—particularly elevated androgens—that trigger a condition known as hirsutism.

Key Definition: Hirsutism is the excessive growth of coarse, dark hair in women in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back, usually caused by elevated levels of androgens (male hormones).

While conventional treatments are available, more women are turning to natural, holistic methods to address the root cause rather than just the symptoms. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers an approach to rebalancing hormones and restoring overall well-being, combining centuries of wisdom with a personalized view of health.

In this blog, we’ll explore PCOS and its link to facial hair growth, delve into the TCM perspective, and share practical guidance on supportive herbs, hormone-balancing diets, acupressure techniques, and lifestyle practices to help manage symptoms naturally.

Table of Contents:

What is the Link Between PCOS and Facial Hair Growth
How Does TCM View PCOS and Hirsutism
What TCM Approaches Naturally Reduces Facial Hair Growth
1. Herbal Remedies
2. Acupuncture
What Are TCM Dietary Recommendations for Hormone Balance
Lifestyle and Holistic Tips to Support Hormone Balance
Realistic Expectations and When to See a Practitioner
How to Stop Facial Hair Growth Due to PCOS Naturally – Conclusion

What is the Link Between PCOS and Facial Hair Growth?

What is PCOS? This common endocrine disorder affects women of reproductive age and can bring a range of symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and excess hair growth. But why does facial hair happen with PCOS?

Key Definition: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, marked by irregular periods, excess androgens, and sometimes ovarian cysts. It can cause symptoms like excess hair growth, acne, weight gain, and is often linked to insulin resistance.

The answer often lies in elevated androgens, such as testosterone, which can stimulate hair growth in areas more typical for men. In addition, insulin resistance and chronic inflammation can worsen hormonal imbalances, making hirsutism more pronounced.

How Does TCM View PCOS and Hirsutism?

From a TCM perspective, PCOS is not viewed as a single, uniform condition, but rather as a collection of underlying patterns of disharmony within the body. These imbalances can manifest in various ways, with common patterns including Kidney Yang Deficiency, Liver Qi Stagnation, Spleen Qi Deficiency, and the accumulation of Dampness and Phlegm.

Key Takeaway: Each of these patterns affects the body’s natural rhythms and hormonal balance differently, which is why TCM emphasizes individualized diagnosis and treatment rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

When it comes to facial hair growth, TCM often attributes the issue to factors like Excess Heat, Blood Stagnation, and Internal Dampness, all of which can disrupt the smooth flow of Qi and Blood. These imbalances are frequently tied to an unstable relationship between Yin and Yang, as well as dysfunction in key organs such as the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen.

In TCM theory, when these organ systems are out of harmony, the body’s hormonal environment shifts, creating conditions that can encourage unwanted hair growth.

What TCM Approaches Naturally Reduce Facial Hair Growth?

Herbal Remedies

In TCM, herbal formulas are thoughtfully crafted to restore internal balance, target the root causes of hormonal imbalance, and support the body’s natural self-healing processes.

For PCOS, these formulas aim to regulate the menstrual cycle, nourish key organ systems, and harmonize Yin and Yang, all while easing symptoms like unwanted facial hair growth.

Dong Quai (Angelica Sinensis)

Often called the “female ginseng,” Dong Quai is prized for its ability to nourish and invigorate the blood, promote smooth circulation, and help regulate menstrual cycles. It supports the Liver in storing and releasing blood properly, making it a key herb for addressing irregular periods and restoring hormonal rhythm.

According to a 2023 study, Angelica sinensis may help improve hormonal imbalances, blood sugar control, and lipid metabolism, making it a promising natural treatment for PCOS.

This study explored how Angelica sinensis, when combined with Radix Rehmanniae, may help treat PCOS. Using computer-based methods, researchers identified the active ingredients in the herbs and how they might work in the body.

Angelica sinensis contains key compounds—like baicalin and caffeic acid—that target important proteins linked to PCOS symptoms. These ingredients influence pathways related to hormone balance, inflammation, and metabolism. The study showed that these compounds could bind effectively to PCOS-related targets, suggesting strong potential for therapeutic use.

Rehmannia

A deeply nourishing Yin tonic, Rehmannia helps replenish Kidney Yin and support adrenal and reproductive function. In TCM, strong Kidney health is essential for hormonal balance, and Rehmannia also helps clear Excess Heat, which can contribute to inflammation and disrupted cycles.

Peony (Bai Shao)

Known for its calming and harmonizing effects on the Liver, Peony helps smooth the flow of Qi, reduce cramping, and balance emotions. It’s also valued for its potential to lower elevated androgens, which may reduce symptoms like hirsutism, acne, and hair thinning on the scalp.

Studies show that Total Glucosides of Peony (TGP) can reduce pain (possibly by activating adenosine A1 receptors), lower inflammation by suppressing inflammatory molecules, and protect cells from oxidative stress. It also influences immune responses by regulating lymphocyte activity and cytokine production. In animals, TGP showed both immune-suppressing and immune-boosting effects depending on the immune state.

Licorice Root

A versatile herb that bridges multiple organ systems, Licorice Root helps regulate hormone activity, reduce inflammation, and enhance the effects of other herbs in a formula. It supports the Spleen and harmonizes the Stomach, making it useful in addressing digestive imbalances that can accompany PCOS.

A 2018 study examined the effects of licorice root extract on PCOS-like symptoms in female rats. PCOS was induced by letrozole treatment, causing hormonal imbalances and ovarian cysts. The study found that GRR helped restore normal levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and lowered the elevated LH/FSH ratio seen in PCOS rats. Additionally, GRR reversed ovarian changes like follicular cysts and thickening of ovarian layers. Overall, licorice extract showed potential to reduce PCOS symptoms by balancing hormones and improving ovarian health.

Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi)

Warming and stimulating, Cinnamon Twig supports Yang energy, promotes circulation, and helps transform Dampness, which can contribute to weight gain, bloating, and sluggish metabolism. Its warming nature also helps counteract cold-type stagnation that can interfere with reproductive health.

In clinical trials, women who took cinnamon experienced more frequent and predictable periods compared to those who received a placebo. These effects were especially noticeable after consistent use for three to six months. Animal studies further confirmed cinnamon’s ability to improve ovarian function, reduce inflammation, and restore hormonal balance.

Key Takeaway: When skillfully combined in personalized formulas, these herbs work synergistically to address both the underlying imbalances and the outward symptoms of PCOS—helping to restore regular cycles, improve energy, and naturally reduce excess hair growth.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture restores hormonal balance and addresses symptoms of PCOS, including unwanted facial hair growth. By stimulating specific points along the body’s meridians, acupuncture helps regulate endocrine function, improve blood circulation to the reproductive organs, and calm the nervous system.

Since stress can significantly worsen hormonal imbalances, acupuncture’s ability to promote relaxation is also an important part of its therapeutic effect.

A 2025 study looked at how in addition to standard medication (letrozole), acupuncture could help women with PCOS-related infertility. Involving 134 women, the study compared real acupuncture to a fake (sham) version, with both groups taking letrozole.

The results showed that women who received real acupuncture had much better outcomes: higher ovulation (77.97%) and pregnancy rates (56.7%) compared to the control group (49.74% and 29.9%). Acupuncture also helped lower testosterone levels, improve the lining of the uterus (making it more ready for pregnancy), and boost blood flow to the uterus.

These findings suggest that acupuncture is a safe, cost-effective way to improve fertility in women with PCOS when used alongside medication.

Key acupuncture points for hormone balance and facial hair management include:

SP6 (Sanyinjiao)

Located on the inner lower leg, this point nourishes Yin, regulates menstruation, and supports the health of the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney—three organ systems vital to hormonal harmony.

LV3 (Taichong)

Found on the top of the foot, LV3 helps move stagnant Liver Qi, reduce internal heat, and support emotional balance, which can be disrupted by hormonal fluctuations.

ST36 (Zusanli)

Situated below the knee, this point strengthens Spleen Qi, supports healthy digestion, and improves nutrient absorption, which in turn supports reproductive health.

CV6 (Qihai)

Located on the lower abdomen, CV6 tonifies Qi and Yang, boosts overall vitality, and strengthens the reproductive system.

Something to Consider: While acupuncture is typically performed by a licensed practitioner, acupressure (applying gentle pressure to these points) can be done daily at home to support long-term hormonal balance.

What are TCM Dietary Recommendations for Hormone Balance?

Diet plays a crucial role in supporting hormonal balance and overall health in women with PCOS. In TCM, the foods you eat can help nourish Yin, clear Excess Heat, strengthen the Spleen, and support Blood production—all of which contribute to reducing symptoms like unwanted facial hair growth.

Foods to nourish Yin and clear Heat:

Dark leafy greens – Rich in minerals and antioxidants, they help cool the body and support liver function.
Black sesame seeds – Nourish Yin, strengthen the Kidneys, and promote healthy hair and skin.
Goji berries – Help tonify Yin, support liver and kidney health, and provide gentle energy.
Seaweed – Supports thyroid function, balances minerals, and helps clear internal Heat.

Foods to avoid (“damp-producing” foods):

Dairy products, greasy or fried foods, and refined sugar can contribute to internal dampness, which may worsen hormonal imbalance and weight challenges.

Eat with the seasons:

Emphasize warm, cooked foods like soups, stews, and lightly steamed vegetables to support Spleen Qi, improve digestion, and promote steady energy.

Blood-nourishing foods:

Beets, dark cherries, organ meats, and bone broth help replenish Blood, improve circulation, and support menstrual health—key for maintaining hormonal balance and reducing excess hair growth.

Lifestyle and Holistic Tips to Support Hormone Balance

Managing lifestyle factors is an essential part of supporting hormonal balance and overall health for women with PCOS. In TCM, chronic stress is believed to deplete Yin and disrupt the flow of Liver Qi, which can worsen hormonal imbalances and contribute to symptoms like excess facial hair.

Stress management practices:

Qi Gong, meditation, and gentle movement – These techniques help calm the nervous system, restore Yin, and support smooth Liver Qi flow, promoting hormonal harmony.

Sleep hygiene:

Prioritize consistent, restorative sleep, as poor sleep can interfere with hormone production, adrenal function, and tissue repair.

Movement:

Favor low-impact exercise such as walking, yoga, or tai chi. These activities reduce cortisol levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and support overall metabolic health without overtaxing the body.

Avoid endocrine disruptors:

Opt for clean skincare, cosmetics, and household products to minimize exposure to chemicals that can interfere with hormone function and exacerbate PCOS symptoms.

Realistic Expectations and When to See a Practitioner

Natural healing for PCOS is a gradual process, and most people notice improvements over the course of three to six months as their body begins to rebalance. Because PCOS manifests differently in each individual, it’s important to work with a licensed acupuncturist or TCM herbalist who can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique pattern of disharmony.

Remember, PCOS exists on a spectrum, so what works for one person may not work for another, making individualized care and patience key components of a successful, long-term approach.