Are there “ethnic” variations in facial and body hair?
Yes. Asians (male and female) typically have relatively little extra hair growth. Blacks have fewer hairs than whites but the hair tends to be equally noticeable because it is dark and curly. African-Americans have another problem with excessive hair in that the curliness makes the hair more prone to becoming “ingrown” after removal. This can lead to pimple-like break outs termed PFB (pseudofolliculitis barbae.) As these lesions heal they can leave dark patches that do not fade completely. The proper treatment of hirsutism to reduce ingrown hairs is important to maintain smooth skin coloring. Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Greece are not as bothered by extra hair since it is more common in those parts of the world. However, the “Media” around the world projects beauty with smooth, hairless bodies and skin. So women with even average or slightly more than average hair growth…can be bothered and feel abnormal. Normal, then, is a personal matter based upon what an individual is
