Can Laser Hair removal treat Polycystic ovary syndrome
Usually the signs of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) become apparent in your late teens or early twenties. Its a common problem, thought to affect one in five woman in the UK.The main symptoms are irregular periods, high levels of male hormones in the body which can result in excess hair growth, weight gain, oily skin or acne, thinning hair and enlarging of the ovaries ( ovulation doesn’t take place causing difficulty in getting pregnant) Although the exact cause of PCOS is not known, the condition can be hereditary and be related to abnormal hormone levels or high levels of insulin in the body. Eating a healthy diet, and losing weight can help the symptoms of PCOS, there are medications available to ease the symptoms of irregular periods and fertility problems.
We are often approached by clients who have PCOS to help with excessive hair growth. It is important to point out from the offset that as PCOS is a medical condition so although we can help with management of excessive hair growth you may not see the same results as a client without this condition would. That said, there are various methods of hair reduction that can reduce the amount of hair such as waxing, electrolysis and laser hair removal. The latter would be our ‘go to’ option. It can keep the hair at bay for long periods of time. The hair does need to be dark enough to treat as those with fair hair would be better to opt for electrolysis.
How does laser hair removal work?
The treatment works by targeting the melanin (pigment) in the hair with the light from the system, and upon absorption the light is converted into heat. This intense heat action breaks down the hair follicle, reducing the opportunity for any re-growth and also changing the entire structure of the follicle itself; overtime altering the density and appearance of the hair until it becomes unnoticeable.
Prior to treatment the area is shaved before a thin layer of protective gel (similar to that used in ultra sound) is applied to maximise absorption. Finally the laser applicator is run over the area and a succession of light pulses are filtered into the hair follicle. The unique square head technology used in laser treatments offer precision and accuracy that ensures that any risk of side effects is minimal. Any potentially harmful wave lengths are removed via the Unique Dual Filtering system, meaning that the light used is completely safe and visible.
Hair grows in three different cycles and the Ellipse laser can only successfully treat hair during its growth stage. Therefore it is often necessary to undergo a course of 3-6 treatments ensuring that you leave at least approx 6 weeks between each session initially, and then only repeat as and when the hair returns.
To ensure as many hair follicles are targeted as possible it is also important not to undergo any hair removal for at least four weeks before the appointment or during the course of treatment. The same rule applies to any sun treatments, as a tan will raise the pigment level in the skin and have a severe effect on the treatments success.
Skin type is a fundamental effecting factor in this treatment as due to the high level of pigment in the skin darker skin tones often experience more pain during treatment though generally it has been compared to the sensation of a rubber band pinging on your skin.
In the past there have been cases of darker skin’s experiencing burning and as a result many salons do not offer this treatment to those of colour. However Ellipse uses the revolutionary HRD applicator to control the light levels used and prevent any side effects to darker skins. This groundbreaking technology allows them to offer laser hair removal to darker skins.
With the Ellipse Laser Permanent Hair Reduction there is little post-treatment care required. Although people with sensitive skin may benefit from using a soothing cream for a few days following treatment.
Ellipse offers a fantastic investment opportunity guaranteeing permanent hair reduction. Before beginning the treatment though, if you are in any doubt that you may have PCOS it would be advisable to chat to your GP. There are medications that can help slow hair growth. There therapists here at Beauty Haven are happy to have a chat with you at any point to discuss your options.