Is PCOS Affecting Your Hair?

Hair / Vein Removal, Hair Loss, Laser Treatments, Medical Concerns, News & Articles, Newsletters, Skin Concerns
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Anne Marie Leger, MD, FAAD

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects many aspects of a woman’s health, including hair growth and hair loss. According to The World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that 8–13% of women of reproductive age have PCOS, and up to 70% of cases are undiagnosed. Understanding how PCOS impacts hair can help manage these changes effectively.

Women with PCOS often experience excessive hair growth (hirsutism) or hair loss (androgenic alopecia). The condition is characterized by an imbalance in sex hormones, particularly with androgens, which can lead to these hair concerns. If you have been diagnosed with PCOS and are experiencing excess hair or hair loss, you should schedule a medical appointment at Advanced Dermatology. We can assess your hair changes and determine further medical intervention.

Cosmetic treatments like laser hair removal can be highly effective for those with excessive hair growth. Laser hair removal targets hair follicles, offering a longterm solution to managing unwanted hair.

For hair loss, we offer medical interventions and cosmetic treatments. One particular cosmetic procedure we offer, Keralase®, uses a combination of laser therapy and a topical solution to stimulate hair growth and improve hair density. Another option is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which involves injecting your own growth factors into the scalp to promote hair growth and improve hair thickness. There are also a multitude of medical therapies, including spironolactone and minoxidil, to address hair loss.

Our skincare boutique, skinfo® and online store skinfo.com, offer products like Kerafactor® for hair loss. Kerafactor® Scalp Stimulating Solution ($169, 1.69 oz) contains essential growth factors and proteins clinically proven to nourish the scalp and support healthy hair growth.

PCOS can impact hair health, but proper diagnosis and treatment can effectively manage these changes. Contact our office for more information or to schedule a medical appointment. I am passionate about helping those with hair loss, as it can be a significant psychosocial burden, and there are many effective treatment options.