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Laser Hair Removal and PCOS: Everything Women Need To Know

woman receiving laser hair removal on the face

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a relatively common condition in women that causes the ovaries and adrenal glands to produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens, a hormone similar to testosterone. PCOS is typically accompanied by several symptoms, including acne, painful or irregular menstrual periods, and increased hair growth.

For women diagnosed with PCOS, laser hair removal can be an effective method for removing excessive hair growth due to PCOS, and here’s why.

What Is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, also referred to as PCOS, is a condition that impacts roughly 10-15% of women. This syndrome causes multiple small cysts around the edges of the ovaries to develop. PCOS also creates an excess of androgen, a male hormone that causes unwanted hair growth on the face, back, chest, lower legs, and abdomen. Those with PCOS may encounter thicker, darker, or excessive body hair due to the extra hormones in their bodies.

PCOS affects 1 out of every 10 women with ovaries, many of whom go undiagnosed. Classic signs of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) include trouble losing weight, irregular or no periods, and unusual amounts of hair on the face, breasts, and belly. Elevated testosterone levels can increase hair growth, affecting one’s appearance, comfort, and self-confidence.

Laser Hair Removal Is Ideal For Women With PCOS

Laser hair removal is an effective treatment option for women who have experienced increased hair growth due to PCOS. A reduction in excess facial and body hair from this treatment can not only be achieved quickly, but it can also offer life-changing benefits for those who are self-conscious as a direct result of this condition. Typically, women suffering from PCOS will need more laser hair removal sessions to achieve their desired results. On average, 10-12 sessions may be required on the body, and 12+ sessions may be required on the face.

What Type of Results To Expect

Laser hair removal works for PCOS, and many women with the condition have been able to experience incredible results. Regular maintenance treatments may be required every 12-15 weeks, indefinitely, to maintain a reduction in hair growth. This can be especially true for facial hair growth. While laser will not provide 100% permanent hair removal, hair will be considerably finer, lighter, and significantly slower to regrow.

The Number of Sessions Required Will Vary

Laser treatments will not influence internal hormone irregularities within the body. As laser hair removal works on the skin’s surface, there are limitations as to what it can achieve. With PCOS, hair growth is persistent and resilient. After an entire course of laser sessions, results will need to be maintained once a satisfactory reduction in hair growth has been achieved (after an entire course of laser sessions), results will need to be maintained. As everyone’s hormone profile is different, the frequency and number of these treatments will depend on the person. Larger body areas may require less frequent maintenance treatments, but you should expect that facial hair will need to be maintained on an 8-12 week cycle.

Is Laser Hair Removal a Solution For Your Unwanted Body Hair?

The best candidate for laser hair removal is typically someone with a fair-skin complexion and dark body hair. The laser targets the hair follicle during treatments, which gets destroyed when it absorbs the light energy.

Radiance Skincare & Laser Medspa is here to help all women feel confident and beautiful. Don’t let symptoms of PCOS dictate how you feel about yourself. We are here to help you find a solution and to answer any questions you may have. Call us today to schedule a PCOS laser hair removal consultation appointment so we can help you feel your very best.