Are you struggling with PCOS-related hair growth? Here's what you should know
TL;DR: PCOS-related hair growth can be well managed with the right combination of medical treatment, lifestyle changes and hair removal methods.
Dealing with unwanted hair growth from PCOS can feel like a never-ending battle - especially when it occurs in visible areas such as the face, chest or back. At Shinie, we know exactly how frustrating it can be to feel like you're constantly fighting your own body. The good news is that there are several effective ways to treat PCOS-related hair growth - from medical therapies to gentle at-home solutions. We'll show you what really helps.
What is PCOS and why does it lead to hair growth?
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) leads to an excess of androgens - male hormones - in the body. These hormones make the hair follicles more sensitive, causing thicker, darker hair to grow in places where you would not normally expect it. This condition is known as hirsutism. The first step to improvement is to understand the underlying hormonal imbalance.
Medical treatment options
Hormonal medication
Birth control pills or antiandrogens can help to regulate hormone levels and reduce excessive hair growth over time. They lower androgen levels in the body and thus slow down hair growth.
Prescription creams
Topical treatments such as Vaniqa can slow down the growth of facial hair if used regularly. Although they do not permanently remove hair, they do make it finer and lighter.
Lifestyle changes
A healthy lifestyle can naturally alleviate the symptoms of PCOS. These include:
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Regular exercise
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A balanced body weight
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A hormone-friendly diet with little sugar and processed foods
These measures support the hormonal balance in a natural way.
Hair removal methods at a glance
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Duration of effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shave | Fast, painless, affordable | Very short-lived, can cause ingrown hairs | 1-3 days |
| Waxing | Longer effect, hair grows back finer | Painful, hair has to grow back first | 3-6 weeks |
| IPL | Gentle on the skin, cost-effective in the long term | Initial investment necessary | Permanent hair reduction |
| Laser | Very durable, targeted effect | Expensive, several sessions necessary | Permanent |
Natural remedies and nutritional supplements
There are also some gentle, natural approaches to reducing PCOS-related hair growth:
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Peppermint tea: Can lower androgen levels when taken regularly
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Inositol: Supports the hormone balance
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Saw Palmetto: Can help block testosterone effects
Important: Always talk to your doctor before taking dietary supplements.
Our recommendation: IPL for at home
For anyone looking for a gentle hair removal method, our Shinie IPL device offers a gentle solution at home. It can significantly reduce hair growth over time - without the aggressive side effects of other methods.
Conclusion
Treating PCOS-related hair growth is a process that often requires patience and an individualized approach. There is no universal solution - but with the right combination of medical support, a healthy lifestyle and suitable hair removal methods, you can achieve significant improvements. Take your time, try different approaches and find out what works for you. With patience, self-care and the right support, you can bring your body back into balance - and feel comfortable in your skin again.
