Laser Hair Removal for PCOS: Does it Work?
For those living with polycystic ovary syndrome, excess body hair can be an everyday part of life. Hair on the face, chest, stomach, and back are all common side effects of this disorder.
This complex syndrome has several treatments, but not all symptoms are effectively removed. Some with PCOS report feeling like they’ve got a five o’clock shadow where hair growth is affected.
One treatment option for excess hair growth that’s shown promise is laser hair removal. Today, we’re looking at how this challenging concern could be a thing of the past.
How does PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) affect your hair?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, as the name implies, is primarily a hormone disorder that affects ovulation. Mature eggs aren’t released during menstruation and are trapped in the ovary instead. Once stuck, they turn into fluid-filled cysts that cause excess androgens. Male sex hormones released into the body cause many symptoms, including excess hair growth.
People with this disorder may have thicker, excessive body hair on the face, chest, and back.
Anyone with PCOS may experience excessive hair growth
While the exact causes of PCOS aren’t clear, anyone with the syndrome can experience unwanted hair growth. Because this is a hormonal issue, it must be treated by a physician. Hair removal is purely cosmetic, but can go a long way towards restoring confidence.
Most women don’t have hair growth in areas like the face, chest, belly, and back. But those with PCOS frequently experience what’s called hirsutism, or excess hair growth. Some women also experience male-pattern baldness as a result.
Hair may be thicker and coarser if you have PCOS
All of us have tiny vellus hairs covering our bodies. These tiny, light hairs don’t have the same quality as facial or pubic hair. PCOS changes the quality of hair follicles and makes them coarse and thick. When this occurs, hair removal is often required to negate the effects.
Shaving and waxing are the most common methods for removing unwanted body hair, but they must be done fairly often. Laser hair removal is a more effective and longer-lasting way to stop hair growth from recurring.
Common concerns about laser hair removal for PCOS
When pursuing laser hair removal as a solution to hair growth related to PCOS, it’s natural to have some questions. Because it’s a hormone-based concern, there are some common concerns that you may have.
How effective is laser hair removal for those with PCOS?
Laser hair removal affects the follicle and the root of unwanted body hair. While this treatment is commonly used on hair around the body, it’s also safe to treat the face! Instead of only addressing the concerns related to the chest, belly, and back, you can rest easy knowing facial hair can be treated this way. You can also treat your bikini line safely with this protocol.
The best way to know this treatment's effectiveness is to talk with your provider. They’ll have answers that relate to your specific case. For some, results can be seen in just a few sessions, while for others, it could take a more concentrated approach. Either way, it’s an effective way to treat hair growth caused by PCOS.
Is laser hair removal a permanent treatment?
Laser hair removal is a semi-permanent solution once the follicles are gone. As we noted above, it can take several treatments before you see these results. In some cases, hormones affect how effective the treatment is, but individual providers should have answers for your situation.
Compared to other hair removal treatments, is laser the best for PCOS?
Compared to shaving and waxing, laser hair removal provides the most comprehensive treatment. You won’t have the same ingrown hair, razor burn, or monthly appointment to deal with once treatment is complete.
Does skin tone and skin texture have an effect on the results?
While early laser technology was more effective on certain hair types and skin textures, this isn’t true now. Light and dark hair can be treated effectively.
Anyone with PCOS can safely have hair removed using laser hair removal. Different lasers are indicated for different skin types and tones, so check with your provider to make sure they can treat you.
How should you prepare for laser hair removal?
When you’re preparing for your first session, you should stop any plucking or waxing four to six weeks ahead of time. Around 24 to 48 hours before your appointment, you should shave the treatment areas to reduce the chance of hair burning below the surface. Shaving leaves the follicle and root and won’t affect the treatment.
If you’re taking medications or using medicated creams, check with your provider to ensure they won’t interfere.
Which clients with PCOS should and shouldn’t receive laser treatment?
As long as you’re not pregnant or using acne treatments, you’re a good candidate for laser therapy. If you’re concerned that your medical protocol will cause an issue with this treatment, know that your provider is your best advocate. They’ll discuss your questions about reducing excessive hair growth with this treatment option.
Results can vary, so if you don’t see immediate reductions, know that it can take between six to eight treatments for the full benefits to show.
The Esthetic Co. is here to make sure to properly treat excess hair growth from PCOS!
The Esthetic Co. specializes in treatments like laser hair removal for women with PCOS. Our team is dedicated to helping you reclaim your skin and feel your best. Using the most up-to-date technology, we can confidently target hairs in delicate places like your face. You’ll love how you look after treating your excessive hair growth in our salon.
Check out our full lineup of hair removal options on our website, and contact us today!