PCOS Unwanted Hair Treatment

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a number of symptoms that may cause distress or embarrassment, including hirsutism. Excessive hair growth can affect the face, neck, chest, tummy, bottom, thighs and back. But, there are unwanted hair treatment options available.

What is PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a medical condition that affects how the ovaries work. This can cause irregular periods, polycystic ovaries and excess androgen, which results in hirsutism. Though there is no cure for PCOS, you can handle symptoms in a range of ways.

Topical Creams

Excessive facial hair sufferers can use topical prescription creams as a PCOS unwanted hair treatment. Eflornithine is specifically formulated for facial hair caused by PCOS. You can apply it to the face twice a day to slow new hair growth. However, it does not remove hair already present. Therefore, topical creams are great when used in combination with hair removal treatments such as IPL.

Medication

Medication is also a potential PCOS unwanted hair treatment. Due to the life cycle of hair follicles, it can take up to 6 months before seeing a significant difference in hair growth from medication. Oral contraceptives that contain oestrogen and progestin can treat hirsutism caused by excess androgen in the body. If they do not have an effect, anti-androgens can block androgens within the body.

Weight Loss

Weight loss and a healthy, balanced diet can also improve symptoms. Losing weight can help to minimise levels of androgen in the body to reduce the effect of hirsutism.

PCOS Unwanted Hair Treatment

A doctor will thoroughly examine to diagnose PCOS and recommend any necessary treatments. For more information about hair removal treatment, see our blog.