Why Do I Have Armpit Hair on One Side but Not the Other? - Internal Medicine

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Why do I have armpit hair on one side and not the other?


I have armpit hair under my right arm, but there is none under my left arm.
Could this be an endocrine issue?

★Zi Shui Di★, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/07/15

Dr. Wang Zhihui reply Internal Medicine


This is likely not an endocrine issue; you may consult a dermatologist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2002/07/15

More Info


The phenomenon of having armpit hair on one side but not the other can be perplexing and may raise concerns about underlying health issues, including hormonal imbalances. However, it is essential to understand that variations in hair growth can occur for several reasons, and not all of them are indicative of a medical problem.

Firstly, it is important to note that hair growth is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal levels, and even local skin conditions. In many cases, asymmetrical hair growth can be attributed to genetic predisposition. Some individuals may naturally have more hair follicles or more active hair follicles on one side of their body compared to the other. This can lead to noticeable differences in hair density and growth patterns, including in the armpit area.

Hormonal factors also play a significant role in hair growth. Androgens, which are male hormones present in both men and women, are primarily responsible for the development of body hair. If there is a hormonal imbalance, such as an excess of androgens, it could potentially lead to uneven hair growth. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women can cause increased androgen levels, leading to hirsutism (excessive hair growth) in certain areas while leaving others less hairy. However, it is essential to consider that hormonal imbalances typically affect multiple areas of the body rather than just one side.

Another possibility is that local skin conditions could be affecting hair growth. For instance, conditions such as alopecia areata, which is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss, could potentially lead to hair loss in specific areas. However, this condition usually results in patches of hair loss rather than a complete absence of hair on one side.

In some cases, physical factors such as trauma or irritation to the skin can also affect hair growth. If one side of the armpit has experienced more friction, irritation, or injury, it might lead to reduced hair growth in that area. Additionally, shaving or grooming practices can also lead to uneven hair growth if one side is treated differently than the other.

If you are concerned about the lack of hair growth on one side of your armpit, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist or an endocrinologist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests, to assess your hormone levels and rule out any underlying conditions.

In summary, having armpit hair on one side but not the other can be due to a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, hormonal influences, local skin conditions, or physical factors. While it is often not a cause for concern, if you notice other symptoms or if the asymmetry is bothersome, seeking professional advice is a prudent step to ensure your overall health and well-being.

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