Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an imbalance of hormones in the brain and the ovaries. Let’s find out how PCOS affects the skin.
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PCOS Symptoms
Polycystic ovary syndrome sufferers may find they have general symptoms such as:
- Irregular periods
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Ovarian cysts
How PCOS Affects the Skin
Our skin can be a window to what is happening inside the body. Skin and hair-related PCOS symptoms include:
- Acne
- Darkened patches of skin
- Unwanted hair growth
Acne
Flare-ups often occur in a hormonal pattern – on the lower part of the face, along the jawline, chin and upper neck. Acne lesions may be larger and deeper in those suffering from PCOS, and can be slower to resolve. The good news is Microdermabrasion is an effective treatment for it.
SkinBase Microdermabrasion for Acne
The steady stream of crystals exfoliates and resurfaces the skin. This improves skin tone and texture, minimising the appearance of acne. Microdermabrasion reduces the production of sebum, renews skin cells, and stimulates collagen production to minimise scarring.
Darkened Patches of Skin (acanthosis nigricans)
The appearance of discoloured, thick, velvety areas of the skin is common in PCOS sufferers. These usually occur in areas where the skin has creases (for instance, the neck and underarms). Some may also find they have skin tag growths on the patches of affected skin. Your GP may recommend hormone-balancing medication to improve the appearance of acanthosis nigricans caused by PCOS.
Excessive Hair Growth (hirsutism)
Hair growth in places where growth is usually minimal or absent is another way that PCOS affects the skin. Unwanted hair is common in patients with PCOS. Areas most affected are the chin, neck, stomach, chest and back.
SkinBase IPL for Unwanted Hair
IPL is a light therapy perfect for getting rid of unwanted hair. The wavelengths of light are absorbed by the melanin in hair and converted to heat. This causes controlled damage which makes the hair falls out at the root. A course of treatment (usually 6-10 sessions) is most effective. This works with the hair growth cycle to target all hairs for the best results.
Regain Your Confidence
PCOS affects the skin in a myriad of ways. With SkinBase treatments it is possible to improve the appearance of PCOS-related problems to help sufferers regain their confidence. Find your nearest SkinBase Therapist.
