Do Some Guys Just Not Get Chest Hair?

Published: January 11, 2017
Dear TeenHealthFX,

I'm 90% sure I should have chest hair by now, but I don't have any, not even peach fuzz. All other areas are healthy, it's just I'm not growing chest hair. Do some guys just not get chest hair? Is this normal?

Signed: Do Some Guys Just Not Get Chest Hair?

Dear Do Some Guys Just Not Get Chest Hair?,

Puberty is a time where body hair may begin to develop in different areas for guys, including the face, armpits, chest and genital area. But keep in mind that not all guys will begin to get body hair at the same time, at the same rate and in the same amount. Your chest hair simply may not have come in yet. But it is also possible that you may never have much (or any) chest hair. Genes primarily determine the amount, thickness and pattern of chest hair. And your genetic predisposition may be to have very little or no chest hair.

If your genetic predisposition is for little or no chest hair, this is not a concern from a medical standpoint. It definitely does not mean that there is some kind of problem, so please do not worry that this means something is wrong. If you are feeling disappointed because you would prefer to have chest hair, then try to remember that we are all different and need to find ways to accept and like ourselves for who we are. And remember that there are many guys out there who actually choose to shave their chests because they prefer that look and you have it naturally!

If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, or anything else related to puberty, please check in with your doctor. If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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