Superfluous Hair and PCOS

For the majority of the people we see are here because they desire freedom. Freedom from rashes, ingrown hairs, being a slave to their stubble.

Always having the thought of how to remain smooth in the back of their mind. Timing when and where to shave. Buying and bringing all kinds of paraphernalia on vacations, overnights, even camping.

Hair in itself is normal. Humans have hair everywhere with only a few exceptions. These nearly invisible hairs are called vellus hairs. They are literally like peach fuzz. Androgens can make these fine hairs transition into terminal hairs. This can happen for a number of reasons, medications, natural conditions such as pregnancy or menopause, certain medical conditions such as diabetes and eating disorders to name a few. Once changed, they can never go back to being vellus.

Different ethnicities have different amounts, coarseness, types, and locations of hair. All of these variations are normal and it is only our “cultures” that make it uncomfortable or acceptable. Sometimes hair that is superfluous, even though the norm for our background, can make us extremely self-conscious, affecting our confidence and even quality of life in some cases.

In addition to these normal variations, 1 in 10 women have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Often it is something that people choose not to talk about, they rather deal with the symptoms in silence.

Whether it is you or a friend, it is important to know you are not alone. It is not a new condition but is now more recognized and understood as it is becoming more prevalent.

Because one of the many symptoms involves excess hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, and/or thighs, Permanent Choice sees many women with PCOS.

We cannot offer medical advise, but we can keep you hair-free by permanently destroying terminal hair follicles. But because of the imbalance of the endocrine system your body may continue to transition vellus hairs into terminal hairs. These new hairs will require maintenance treatments. Often it is only once a year or so. An easy solution to feel like yourself.

PCOS is a multi-faceted condition. Please speak with your physician if you have concerns.

Symptoms include:

  • Irregular menstrual periods

  • Infertility

  • Pelvic pain

  • Excess hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, or thighs

  • Weight gain

  • Acne or oily skin

  • Patches of thickened skin

Women with PCOS are at higher risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and high blood pressure. If concerned we suggest you speak with your personal physician, but here are several links for more information.

https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome

https://www.pcosaa.org/

https://www.pcoschallenge.org/