Laser hair removal in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Carla
Specialist in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Overview
As a woman, you probably already spend a significant amount of time on your beauty routine. From skincare, makeup, to what shoes to wear with that top, it all takes time. After all, you want to feel elegant, beautiful, comfortable and happy in your own skin. Unfortunately, there could be conditions that could test your patience and even impact your self-esteem.
Hormone fluctuations are part of being a woman, but when they are due to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), they can lead to various health issues. One unfortunate side effect of PCOS is the growth of extra hair in places it isn’t at all welcome.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a medical condition whereby women’s hormones are out of balance.
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance. It can first appear in puberty and has symptoms, which can include:
- Irregular menstruation
- Alopecia
- Obesity
- Trouble getting and staying pregnant
- Oily skin
- Acne
- Uneven pigmentation
- Skin tags
- Many small cysts on the ovaries
- High cholesterol and high blood pressure
- Hirsutism (excessive hair growth)
Are you a candidate for laser hair removal?
The best candidate for laser hair removal is typically someone with a fair-skin complexion and dark hair. On the other hand, IPL can be used on almost every skin color.
Why does PCOS cause Hirsutism?
Hirsutism is not a disorder, but a symptom of an underlying medical condition. The majority of women with hirsutism may have PCOS. If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, your ovaries are producing excessive amounts of androgens, such as testosterone (which is also called hyperandrogenism). However, testosterone per se is not directly responsible for the formation of unwanted hair growth but rather its more powerful byproduct called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
How laser works?
Laser treatment only affects hair in the active growth phase. Hair must be present in the follicle for the laser treatment to be more effective. Immediately before the procedure, dye can be applied to the hair, which will make the laser more effective. The laser can help control hair growth and areas of the face will need to be treated on an ongoing basis.
Laser-assisted hair removal is a generally safe and effective technique for women who desire a long-term reduction of hair growth. It works by focusing a beam of light to induce selective damage to hair follicles. This technique produces a gradual but permanent reduction of hair regrowth and can be used in larger areas of the body.
HiSqin™ IPL Hair Removal Handset Gen X
If you need to keep your skin hair-free all the time, HiSqin™ IPL Hair Removal Handset Gen X designed in Canada to deliver long-lasting visible results in just 8-12 sessions. Full body treatments are done in 30 minutes, just once per week.
How does laser hair removal work on PCOS hair?
During both laser and intense pulse light treatments, the hair is trimmed and the device is customized for your hair and skin color.
During your laser treatment, the light targets the hair follicle, which then gets destroyed when it absorbs the light energy. Patients can report seeing hair fall out easily in about three weeks. Usually 5-10 treatments are required for patients with PCOS, yet it can vary case by case.
Women with PCOS have to deal with a range of distressing symptoms including excessive facial and body hair (hirsutism) throughout their lives. Hirsutism is usually treated with anti-androgen medications and oral contraceptives. Long-lasting hair removal methods, such as laser therapy, have shown promising results when combined with hormonal treatments.
Are there any side effects or complications?
Areas treated may develop a slightly reddened, irritated appearance that may last for a few minutes to a few hours. These areas may be mildly uncomfortable during this time. Persons with darker skin types or who are tanned may experience some lightening of the skin. This should be temporary. Few other side effects should be likely to occur.For this we recommend using the gel calming after every session.
HiSqin™ Gotu Kola Calming Gel
This Seaweed-based soothing gel provides the ultimate hydration while calming botanicals tend to sensitive or irritated skin.
May be used daily or nightly as a moisturizer or as a post treatment on irritated or inflamed skin.
Takeaway
With less maintenance, lower pain levels, and longer lasting results, laser hair removal is definitely the ideal treatment option for women with PCOS. Reducing excess hair on the face and body with this procedure can not only be achieved quickly, but can also benefit those who recognize themselves as a direct result of PCOS. Laser hair removal results in a gradual but permanent reduction in hair regrowth and can be used on large areas of the body.
DISCLAIMER Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice.
