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What Causes Delay In Growth Of Facial Hair?

Posted on Wed, 5 Nov 2014

Question: Why am I twenty one years old going on 22 March 21st next year and still can't grow a beard! Only a mustache and whiskers! :(

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Testosterone

Detailed Answer:
When I see someone like you in my practice, in addition to a physical examination I also tend to order the following blood tests:
CBC
CMP (Electrolytes, Glucose, Calcium, Liver and Kidney function tests)
Total Testosterone
SHBG
TSH

If these are normal then I conclude that there is no 'Androgen' (male hormone) deficiency to explain the lack of adequate male pattern hair.

If anything is abnormal then further testing is warranted. This entails a comprehensive systematic evaluation that includes a variety of tests depending on the results of the first round of tests:
FSH
LH
Prolactin
Ferritin
Karyotype

However, there are many young adult males who have no hormonal problems and still have below-average male pattern body hair growth

I suggest you see an Endocrinologist in person because this requires a thorough in-person assessment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (3 hours later)

I probably don't have low testosterone because I am in above average shape and lift very heavy year round

Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Follow up

Detailed Answer:
I understand what you are saying. Regarding your query here, the only medical condition that needs to be ruled out is testosterone deficiency.

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar