We treat many female clients who come in seeking permanent hair removal for unwanted hair growth caused by Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a medical condition affecting millions of women around the world. PCOS causes a hormonal imbalance leading to symptoms that include unwanted hair growth, irregular menstrual cycles, fertility complications and more.
Unwanted hair growth – also called Hirsutism – is caused primarily by increased androgens, a hormone typically associated with males, even though it does occur in females at low levels. As a result, many women with PCOS experience male-pattern hair growth, including on the face. Because laser hair removal doesn’t work on all hair types and only leads to hair reduction, PCOS sufferers often opt for electrolysis to permanently remove their unwanted hair, regardless of skin or hair color.
While there is currently no known cure for PCOS, medications can reduce the severity of certain symptoms while in use. Those that target unwanted hair growth typically do so in one of three ways: either they block androgen receptors, suppress androgen production or limit the enzyme that converts androgens into testerone. Though these medications may prove helpful and reduce hair growth in the short term, results are not permanent and hair growth typically returns when one discontinues use of the medication.
Similarly, hair removal methods like laser hair removal and intense pulsed light (IPL) may work to temporarily reduce hair growth but they are not a permanent solution. Unlike laser and IPL, electrolysis does result in permanent hair removal. This is because electrolysis targets and destroys the hair follicle itself, so while the hormonal imbalance may not be resolved, the follicle is no longer able to produce hair.
If you suffer from PCOS, get in touch to learn more about how we can help you permanently remove your unwanted hair!