Hair Growth and Androgens
Hair growth in both men and women is influenced by androgens, hormones that regulate the development of masculine characteristics. Hair follicles, which contain androgen receptors, are significantly affected by these hormones.
Male-pattern baldness is also driven by androgens, particularly an androgen called DHT. Hair follicles that are highly sensitive to DHT, typically located at the front, top, and crown of the scalp, follow the familiar pattern of common baldness. DHT binds to these sensitive follicles, causing them to shrink gradually until they can no longer support new hair growth.
The hormones responsible for hair loss begin to emerge during puberty, when an increase in androgens leads to thicker hair growth on various parts of the body. Areas most sensitive to androgens are affected first. This androgenic hair growth occurs in both genders but is more pronounced in boys due to its visibility. In order of androgen sensitivity, hair appears in visible areas such as the sideburns, mustache, chin, beard, arms, legs, chest, and shoulders. During this developmental phase, boys may also develop hair on their backs, though most do not notice it until their twenties.
Excessive Hair and Removal Options
“Excessive” back hair is a common concern for many men. While medical conditions like hirsutism and hypertrichosis can cause excessive hair growth, they are rarely the cause of back hair in men. Hirsutism, a reaction to androgens, results in male-pattern hair growth and is a significant issue for women. In men, it is less noticeable because the hair grows in expected areas. Hypertrichosis, a condition of excess body hair, is rarely severe and, once distinguished from hirsutism, is considered a variation of normal hair growth driven primarily by genetic factors. In other words, back hair, though perceived as excessive by some men, is not a health issue and is generally an inherited trait that varies in prominence.
While back hair is not a health problem, many men feel self-conscious about it and seek removal options. Several hair removal methods are available, each with its advantages and drawbacks:
- Shaving – Shaving is the easiest and most affordable hair removal method, but it requires frequent maintenance.
- Laser Hair Removal – This method is highly effective but expensive, costing approximately $800 to $1,500 per session, with most men needing two to six sessions. It may also cause temporary changes in skin color.
- Electrolysis – Electrolysis involves inserting a needle into each hair follicle and destroying it with an electric current. This method is impractical for back hair due to the time required to treat all follicles.
- Waxing – Waxing is less costly than laser treatments but can be painful. Hot wax is applied, and the hair is ripped from the skin. It can be done at a salon or at home but should be tested on a small area first to assess pain tolerance.
- Depilatories – Creams like Nair or Neet dissolve hair and are available at drugstores. However, they may cause allergic reactions, require frequent application, and often have an unpleasant odor.
