The Hairy Effects of Testosterone
For transmasculine individuals and those undergoing testosterone therapy, one of the most noticeable physical changes is the development of body and facial hair. For some this is one of the most anxiety-inducing effects (as was the case for me), while for others it’s a much anticipated step. Either way, it often comes with questions about what to expect, how fast changes occur, and how to manage new hair growth. In this post, I’ll break down the effects of testosterone on hair growth, timelines, and grooming tips.
How Testosterone Influences Hair Growth
Testosterone (T) is the primary hormone responsible for triggering secondary male characteristics, including body and facial hair. When you start T, the hormone interacts with androgen receptors in your hair follicles, stimulating hair growth in areas typically associated with male puberty.
Increased Thickness and Darkening – Over time, hairs on the face and body may become darker and coarser.
Changes in Growth Patterns – Hair may appear in new places, such as the upper lip, chin, jawline, chest, stomach, and back.
Variation in Growth Rates – Genetics play a significant role in how and where hair grows, meaning some people will develop fuller beards faster than others.
Facial Hair Growth: What to Expect
Facial hair development is gradual and differs from person to person based on factors such as genetics and dosage dosage. Here’s a general timeline for what you might experience if on a standard dose of T:
0-3 Months – You may notice an increase in peach fuzz on the upper lip and jawline.
3-6 Months – Some areas may develop coarser, darker hairs, and patchy growth may appear.
6-12 Months – Hair begins to fill in more, but full beard growth can take years.
1-5 Years – Many people reach their fullest beard potential within this period, though genetics dictate the final outcome.
Encouraging Beard Growth
Patience is Key – Beard growth is a slow process, and consistency is important.
Exfoliation & Moisturizing – Keeping your skin healthy can encourage optimal hair growth.
Minoxidil & Supplements – Some transmasc individuals use minoxidil (Rogaine) to speed up growth. I would also recommend using either a dermastamp or a dermaroller a couple of times a week in order to further encourage hair growth.
Body Hair Growth on Testosterone
Beyond facial hair, testosterone promotes hair growth in other areas, such as:
Chest & Stomach – Often one of the earlier changes, hair may begin as thin strands and thicken over time.
Arms & Legs – Many people notice a gradual increase in coarseness and coverage.
Back & Shoulders – Some individuals develop hair in these areas, depending on genetic factors.
Underarms, Pubic Area, and Butt – Hair in these regions may darken and spread, becoming more noticeable.
Grooming & Managing Body Hair
Trimming & Shaving – If you prefer a cleaner look, electric trimmers can help manage length without irritation, while a straight-edge razor can help clean up any stragglers.
Hair Removal Options – Waxing, depilatory creams, or laser hair removal are options for those who prefer less body hair.
Skin Care – Exfoliating and moisturizing can help reduce ingrown hairs and irritation.
Hair Loss
While testosterone promotes hair growth in many areas, it can also contribute to hair loss, particularly on the scalp. While this isn’t a guaranteed effect for everyone on Testosterone, it does happen to many and can be a source for distress. If you’re worried that you might have hair loss while on Testosterone, the most reliable predictor is to take a look at what AMAB family members' history with hair loss has been. But even if there is a strong history of hair loss in your family there are still some measures you can take to minimize your chances of hair loss.
Male Pattern Baldness – Some individuals experience androgenic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness, which is influenced by genetics and DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a byproduct of testosterone.
Signs of Hair Thinning – Receding hairlines or thinning at the crown are common early indicators.
Managing Hair Loss – Similar to helping with facial hair growth, Minoxidil can also slow down or prevent hair loss from the scalp. Some have also had success in preventing or delaying the onset of hair loss with the use of a DHT blocker called Finasteride (with a doctor’s guidance). I personally have had good results with combining these two products, but please keep in mind that once you begin using either/both of these products, it is strongly recommended that you continue indefinitely or risk the onset of hair loss.
Final Thoughts
Testosterone’s effects on hair growth vary from person to person, but patience and proper grooming can make the process more manageable. Whether you’re embracing new facial hair, navigating patchy growth, or managing body hair changes, understanding what to expect can help you feel more confident in your journey. Remember that genetics play a major role, and growth happens at different rates for everyone. No matter what, your experience is valid, and finding what works best for you is the most important part of the process!
