Laser hair removal is a great option to limit the proliferation of hairs, the eventual result of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), but the final outcome depends to a large extent on the hormonal regulation of each individual as well as the nature of the hair. Consequently, it does not entail being a step towards curing …
Laser hair removal is a great option to limit the proliferation of hairs, the eventual result of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), but the final outcome depends to a large extent on the hormonal regulation of each individual as well as the nature of the hair. Consequently, it does not entail being a step towards curing PCOS, rather, it leads to a drastic reduction of the thickening and the recurrence of the unwanted hair that usually accompanies the disorder, thus it has become a favored method among women with PCOS who want to solve their hair problem once and for all.
Understanding PCOS and Hair Growth:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a hormonal disorder that can be found in up to 10% of women of reproductive age. The leading feature of the disorder is the significant overproduction of male hormones – androgens of which testosterone is the most well-known.
One of the consequences of the increased level of androgens is the change of vellus hairs (fine, soft hairs) into terminal hairs (thicker, darker hairs) on areas such as the face, chest, back, and abdomen, thus resulting in hirsutism. The situation gets aggravated since enzymes like 5-alpha reductase are more active in hair follicles. The hormonal fluctuations also change the hair growth cycle, which is why these hairs become thicker and more visible.
How Laser Hair Removal Works for PCOS?
Laser hair removal is basically a one-point-energy system where light energy for what is known as “melanin” is directly focused at the pigment in hair follicles. The laser then heats the hair and destroys the hair follicle, stopping hair from growing again. Since the treatment targets the pigment in hair, it is effective for the dark, thick hairs that have more melanin, thus it is extremely efficient for women with PCOS who in most cases have dark hair as a result of increased androgen activity.
It takes a number of sessions with intervals of a few weeks in between to complete the process to be able to treat hairs in different growth stages. Eventually, the hair follicles that are being treated will be weak or permanently destroyed and hair growth will be significantly decreased.
Effectiveness for PCOS:
As per scientific studies, this treatment is a great option for women with PCOS to reduce hair growth. However, the outcomes are a little less expected as compared to women without any hormonal issues. The 2007 study found that women with PCOS had on average about 31% less hair counts following six treatments, and the hair-free period was getting longer with each additional session, up to more than four weeks after 10 treatments. In spite of only slight reductions in hair counts, as much as 95% of the patients declared that they were very satisfied with their treatments.
Current research and doctors’ experience with patients indicate that laser treatments can lead to a 50-79% reduction in hair growth six months after the treatment, and the final long-term reduction can be even more after repeated sessions.
Preparation for the Treatment:
Preparation includes many steps to make the procedure safe and effective, including;
- Do not expose your skin to the sun or tanning before treatments.
- Shave the area that will be treated one day before to minimize surface hair.
- Stop waxing or plucking hair in the area to be treated for a few weeks prior.
- Talk about hormones and any medications you are taking with your doctor.
Post-Treatment Care:
The right care after the treatment not only deepens the results but also reduces the side effects:
- Protect your skin from the sun if you do not want to have pigmentations.
- Do not take a hot shower, do not scrub your skin and do not apply any irritating products right after the treatment.
- Use the skincare products that your doctor recommends.
Cost Consideration:
The cost of treatment depends on the size of the treated area, the number of sessions, the technology used, and other factors. In essence, patients spend money to prevent having to undertake monthly routines of eradicating hair or suffering skin irritation due to depilation methods.
Why Choose Estheticare for Laser Hair Removal?
Estheticare Group Islamabad, is the best place to go for laser hair removal because we offer the highest degree of personalized attention and employ the most advanced technology. Our certified professionals are familiar with the subtleties of PCOS-induced hair growth and will devise a customized treatment program that is appropriate for your skin and hair type in order to maximize its performance while minimizing risk.
Book an Appointment
It’s easy and free!
