PCOS-Related Facial Hair: Why It Happens and How We Can Help

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS for short, can impact a variety of elements in a woman's life, from her fertility to her appearance, including abnormal hair growth. With September being designated Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Awareness Month, there is no better time to raise the profile of this condition and the benefits of managing one of its common symptoms using laser hair reduction.

With more than 15 years of experience, our skilled staff at Cascade MedSpa & Laser Centre in Baxter, Minnesota, provides cutting-edge FDA-approved care and treatments that will leave you looking and feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Whether you're struggling with wrinkles, fat deposits, unwanted hair, or other appearance-related challenges, we can help.

Polycystic ovary syndrome

PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that strikes women any time after puberty, especially in their 20s and 30s. It occurs when the ovaries create excessive androgen hormones, including testosterone. It affects up to 15 percent of women of reproductive age.

Symptoms may include irregular or no periods, which can lead to infertility. Heavy bleeding when menstruation does occur, as well as ovaries that look enlarged on an ultrasound or have many follicles, are other signs. PCOS can also affect a woman's appearance, causing increased acne, skin tags, darkening of patches of skin, and abnormal hair growth.

Excessive hair growth

Hair growth that occurs in people with PCOS is typically coarse and dark. It can grow on the face, chest, and back and may be particularly troublesome around the chin and neck.

Laser hair reduction

Laser hair reduction can help anyone with unwanted hair, but it can be especially helpful for those with PCOS. The density of hair presents a particular challenge, so it is important to see an expert practitioner.

The procedure can be performed in the typical trouble spots related to PCOS and other body areas, including the underarms, bikini region, legs, and abdomen.

How it works

The Forever Bare BBL™ system uses fluid pulses of energy to move through the outer layer of skin to the hair follicles below. The laser's heat destroys these follicles, preventing them from creating hair.

Treatment begins with a light numbing cream applied to the skin, followed by the technician gliding a handheld device over the designated area. Patients may feel warmth and a light snapping sensation against the skin. The length of the treatment depends on how large an area is being addressed. Special glasses are worn throughout to protect the eyes from the laser.

People with PCOS may require more treatments than average due to more hair overall and more growth.

If you have PCOS and are struggling with excessive hair, help is available. Call our office at 218-454-9999 or click here to book an appointment today for a consultation.