September is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Awareness Month & we’re here to educate and raise awareness on the condition
Click here to tune in with Skin & Body Expert, Rabbia & PCOS sufferer, Molly – our Marketing Manager for our latest IG Live.
What is PCOS?
PCOS; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a condition that affects 27% of women aged 15-44. This condition affects the ovulation cycle as cysts live on the ovaries and also has a detrimental effect on the hormone levels. PCOS causes a female to over-produce the male hormone; testosterone. This hormone imbalance can cause irregular menstrual periods and also makes conceiving, more complicated.
What are the side effects or symptoms?
While some symptoms of PCOS are more obvious than others, up to 70% of women that live with PCOS, have been unaware they have the condition for years. The most common symptoms are:
- Irregular periods
- Heavy bleeding
- Hair growth
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Male-pattern baldness
- Darkening of the skin
- Headaches
Although Doctors are unaware of the causes of PCOS, there are ways to manage the side effects. A healthy, balanced diet & lifestyle is pivotal and if you are over-weight, loosing just 5-10% of your body weight will dramatically improve symptoms. Remember to stay hydrated; by drinking plenty of water to regularly flush toxins. Keep fit by exercising daily and use the right skincare – these are all simple steps to take to manage symptoms of PCOS.
Will Laser Hair Removal work on someone with PCOS?
In short, yes! Laser Hair Removal gives us the ability to effectively manage and maintain the hair growth, so regardless of your hair cycle, we can permanently reduce and slow down re-growth. Typically, we recommend a minimum of 6 Laser Hair Removal treatments. Women who suffer with PCOS, are more likely to require additional sessions but this is dependent on the individual and the treated area.
Are there any treatments to help with those suffering with PCOS, acne?
As PCOS sufferers are producing an increased level of the male hormone, it’s likely that they’re experiencing ‘oiliness & breakouts’ this is due to excess sebum on the skin. First and foremost, establishing a good and proper home-care skin regime will regulate problematic skins. Using advanced ingredients such as AHA’s, BHA’s and retinol’s will aid skin turnover and exfoliate dead cells to refresh the skins surface.
Once familiar with regular home-care, there are Aesthetic Treatment solutions; The Laser Acne Treatment uses a Harmony® AFT laser (Advanced Fluorescent Technology). IPL laser and broadband light works to destroy the bacteria produced by acne, reduces inflammation and regulated sebum production.
Skin Peels & Resurfacers are also a brilliant way to diminish breakouts. They use the power of natural acids and active ingredients to deeply exfoliate and brighten the skin. Skin Peels work to stimulate new cell growth and collagen production, helping to reveal fresher, clearer, brighter skin.
HydraFacial is so much more than just another facial. This treatment focuses on the unique philosophy of ‘Skin Health for Life’. It works deeper than simply a ‘glowing’ appearance, HydraFacial gives you the best of both worlds – amazing looking skin PLUS clean, healthy layers. The treatment reveals glowing, refreshed and radiant skin with immediate results.
Our advice for someone living with PCOS?
It’s likely you know someone who suffers with this condition, remember it is very common and you’re not alone. There are resource groups and professionals who are on-hand to help. Do not let PCOS control your life, speak to your GP today and when you’re ready, visit HC, we’re a team of Skin & Body experts with treatment solutions, many of us living with PCOS too.
For more information on the treatments mentioned in this blog or to speak to a member of our team, click here and we’ll be in touch
By HC MedSpa
18th September 2020