:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1460105832-034e0c59b97f4a03b452bcb9ea29499e.jpg "Why Laser Hair Removal Is Your Best Bet for PCOS Hair Growth (1)")
For some, laser hair removal is an easy process. While the number of sessions needed to become completely hair-free varies depending on the treatment area, skin tone, and hair thickness, it's not always straightforward. This especially rings true for people with PCOS. Still, laser hair removal for PCOS-fueled hair growth remains a popular treatment.
Polycystic ovary syndrome affects as many as five million women of reproductive age in the U.S., according to the CDC. It's a hormonal disorder that impacts fertility, and side effects can include irregular periods, acne, obesity, and excessive hair growth. The latter is due to increased levels of male hormones, and the hair typically grows in coarse and dark. Often, it'll pop up on the face, chest, and back. While this is totally common for those with PCOS, there are ways to address it if you so choose.
To find out how to approach hair removal if you have PCOS, we turned to dermatologist Shereene Idriss, M.D., plastic surgeon Dan Yamini, M.D., and laser hair removal expert Christian Karavolas.
Meet the expert
- Dr. Shereene Idriss is a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in Manhattan.
- Christian Karavolas is the founder of Romeo & Juliette Laser Hair Removal in NYC.
- Dr. Dan Yamini is a board-certified Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon at Visthetic Surgery Institute and Medspa.
Keep scrolling for why experts recommend laser hair removal if you're dealing with PCOS hair growth.
How Laser Hair Removal for PCOS Hair Growth Works
There are a number of hair removal methods out there, but according to Karavolas, laser hair removal works best in this situation: "PCOS makes the hair very dense, particularly around the chin and neck. So, using the right lasers with the right settings is important so that the hair can be permanently removed without hurting the skin," he tells us.
"Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicles with a concentrated beam of light," explains Dr. Yamini. "The light energy is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair, which converts to heat and damages the hair follicle, inhibiting or delaying future hair growth. It's a precise method that targets hairs without damaging the surrounding skin."
How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
To get the most out of your laser hair removal treatment—and avoid any adverse reactions—it's best to come prepared. "Before your treatment, avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanners for at least two weeks, as tanned skin can increase the risk of side effects," Dr. Yamini tells us. "Shave the treatment area a day or two before your appointment, but avoid waxing or plucking, as the laser needs the hair follicle to be present," he adds.
Results
Although laser hair removal is effective in combating hair growth, those with PCOS should also see their OB/GYN and anticipate more follow-up sessions if they want results to stick.
"Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause excessive hair growth due to hormonal imbalances. Laser hair removal can effectively reduce this hair growth, but it may not be permanent because PCOS can cause new hair to grow. Regular maintenance treatments can help manage the condition," says Dr. Yamini.
Dr. Idriss adds that PCOS-fueled hair growth can only be reversed if the underlying cause of the hormonal imbalance is treated. Once there's a proper diagnosis from your OB/GYN, treatment in combination with laser hair removal can reverse, stabilize, and control excess growth, says Karavolas.
People with PCOS will require more laser hair removal sessions than the average person as they have more hair overall and more growing at the same time. "It doesn't mean that the laser hair removal is not working," says Dr. Idriss. "It just means that unfortunately, they're going to need a little bit more to get them to the finish line of their liking."
Aftercare for Laser Hair Removal
Post-laser hair removal session, following aftercare instructions is key. "After treatment, keep the area clean and avoid sun exposure," advises Dr. Yamini. "Apply aloe vera or a soothing cream to reduce redness and inflammation." We recommend Cetaphil Soothing Gel Cream with Aloe. "And avoid hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours," he adds.
Laser Hair Removal vs. Electrolysis
Laser hair removal and electrolysis may be used interchangeably, but they are not, in fact, the same. While both are effective methods for removing hair, they work differently, notes Dr. Yamini. "Electrolysis uses a tiny needle to deliver an electrical current to each individual hair follicle, permanently destroying it. This method is time-consuming as it targets one hair at a time," he explains. "Laser hair removal, on the other hand, uses light to target multiple hair follicles simultaneously, making it faster and more suitable for larger areas." However, Dr. Yamini says that laser hair removal may require maintenance treatments whereas electrolysis is typically considered permanent.
So why might someone with PCOS opt for laser hair removal over electrolysis? Well, results from laser hair removal are usually seen sooner. It also doesn't call for as many sessions as electrolysis, and each one is shorter and said to be less painful, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hormones can cause excessive hair growth?
A high level of androgens (male sex hormones) in the body can contribute to excessive hair growth. In people with PCOS, the ovaries produce excessive amounts of androgens, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
"The sensation during laser hair removal varies from person to person," says Dr. Yamini. "Most describe it as a snapping feeling, similar to a rubber band against the skin. Some areas are more sensitive than others, but many modern laser systems come with cooling devices to minimize discomfort. Topical anesthetics can also be used to reduce any pain."
Can shaving, tweezing, and/or waxing get rid of hair growth from PCOS?
Quick solutions such as shaving, tweezing, and waxing can help reduce the appearance of excess hair growth in the short term, but since PCOS-fueled hair is typically dark and thick, it often grows back looking like stubble. That's why more permanent solutions, such as electrolysis or laser, are the way to go for long-term removal.
