Guide to Laser Hair Removal for PCOS
Women struggling with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often experience excessive hair growth on the face and body, causing many to feel self-conscious and endure daily plucking, tweezing, and shaving. But there’s a better way to manage this unwanted hair. Laser hair removal can help you eliminate excessive strands caused by PCOS! Join us as we discuss why laser hair removal is the perfect solution for many with PCOS.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a metabolic disorder characterized by increased androgen hormones like testosterone. Here’s what you need to know about this condition:
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
PCOS is a complex disorder that manifests in various ways. Some people experience insulin resistance and chronic inflammation alongside ongoing hormonal imbalances. Signs and symptoms may include:
Unwanted facial and body hair
Thinning hair on the head
Irregular, heavy, or absent periods
Ovulation issues
Infertility
Unexplained weight gain
Skin discoloration
Anxiety and depression
Trouble sleeping
How does PCOS affect hair growth?
Increased levels of testosterone and other androgen hormones can cause thick, coarse hair to grow on the face and body, particularly in areas like the chin, arms, abdomen, and back. At the same time, these hormones can lead to thinning hair on top of the head.
Who is a good candidate for laser hair removal with PCOS?
Laser hair removal is most effective at eliminating dark, coarse hairs from people with lighter skin tones. That’s because laser devices target melanin, which is often concentrated in hair roots within the follicle. Light waves can easily identify and destroy follicles containing darker hairs without damaging the surrounding skin.
Keep in mind that you’ll likely enjoy better results from laser hair removal if your PCOS is under control, so consider seeking treatment from an endocrinologist if you need help managing your symptoms.
Does laser hair removal work for PCOS?
The short answer is yes! Laser hair removal can be very effective for people with PCOS. Here’s a closer look:
How effective is laser treatment for facial hair in PCOS?
Laser hair removal vs other methods can drastically improve the appearance of thick, coarse hairs that people with PCOS may notice on their face, but it won’t be as effective on vellus hairs or peach fuzz. It’s important to note that facial hair is highly influenced by androgen hormones, so there may be a greater chance of regrowth following facial treatments.
How effective is laser treatment for excess body hair with PCOS?
Body hair caused by PCOS is usually easier to treat with laser hair removal. This is because these hairs follow slower, more predictable growth cycles than most facial hair.
How should you prepare for laser hair removal with PCOS?
About four weeks before your laser hair removal session for PCOS, stop waxing, tweezing, and plucking hairs in the treatment area. This is also the time to become vigilant about sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever you’re outside. The day before your laser session, shave the hair in your chosen treatment area to encourage the light energy to concentrate on your roots.
What to expect from laser hair removal for PCOS
Before your laser hair removal treatment series for PCOS begins, you’ll have a consultation with your provider to discuss your goals, skin concerns, and any medications you may be taking. Here are a few things to consider as you prepare for this revolutionary hair removal method:
How many sessions do you need?
The number of sessions you’ll need for long-term hair reduction will vary depending on several factors, including your hair color, growth rate, chosen treatment area, and the time it takes for your body to generate new hair follicles. On average, you can expect anywhere between 6 and 12 sessions to achieve optimal results.
Is laser hair removal for PCOS permanent?
While laser hair removal is an excellent option for people with PCOS, the results may not be permanent. The targeted follicles will never produce hair again, but new follicles may appear. Be prepared to maintain your results with occasional touch-up sessions to manage regrowth over the years.
If you find that hair continues to grow even after your initial treatment series, you might consider electrolysis to remove stubborn strands. However, the cost, discomfort, and length of these sessions can be substantially greater than those associated with laser hair removal.
What are the side effects of laser treatments with PCOS?
In the days after laser hair removal, you may experience redness, inflammation, and sensitivity. A cool compress can soothe these effects. Although rare, burns, blisters, and discoloration can appear if the wrong laser is applied to darker skin tones.
Manage PCOS symptoms of unwanted hair at Tourmaline Skin Care & Laser!
For many, laser hair removal is the perfect solution for unwanted hair caused by PCOS. It’s more effective than at-home IPL and more affordable (and comfortable!) than costly electrolysis sessions.
At Tourmaline Skin Care & Laser, we can help you eliminate unwanted hair and achieve the best skin of your life! Book a consultation today to get started!