For those in the know the acronym PCOS is all too recognisable. With 1 in 5 women affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (according to Endometriosis UK) it’s a really hot topic right now. Research shows that women who suspect they may have PCOS have a long and emotional road with many visiting numerous clinicians before being diagnosed . mental health issues as a result of the physical symptoms being the most common reason for this. Shockingly, that’s nearly 30% of the UK female population who are dealing with the condition and are seeking out ways to manage both internal and external side effects.
WHAT IS LASER HAIR REMOVAL?
Laser hair removal works by using concentrated light at specific wavelengths to target the hair follicles in your skin. The melanin pigment in the hair attracts the light emitted by the laser, which is then absorbed by the hair follicle, heating and disabling it causing the hair to fall out at the root. As you progress through your course of treatments your hair will become softer and finer over time and growth will gradually slow down. With continued treatment this eventually results in the permanent reduction of follicle hair growth. As your hair grows in 6 cycles, you typically need a minimum of 6 sessions ensuring you are targeting every cycle of hair growth to see the best results.
WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED?
Laser hair removal can be used almost anywhere on the face and body. The most common areas we treat at Young LDN for PCOS sufferers are the face (including chin, cheeks, and upper lip), underarms, stomach, and legs. At Young LDN you have the opportunity to tailor make a bespoke treatment plan that is as individual as you and your concerns are.
DOES IT SOUND TO GOOD TO BE TRUE?
The fact that PCOS actively promotes the growth of new hair, is particularly challenging for ‘traditional’ laser hair removal devices on the market. Often more treatments are required which can prove to be expensive and lengthy and if you’re going to a cheap clinic who is not using a medical grade laser, then you simply aren’t going to see long term results. Believe us, if it sounds too cheap to be true, it most likely is!
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
Not only will you see a permanent hair reduction of up to 90%, with laser hair removal you will also avoid ingrown hairs, shaving rash and stubble. With many other forms of hair removal, including waxing, plucking, shaving and hair removal cream, the hair will return quickly, often within a matter of days. Laser hair removal will give you long-lasting results, saving both time and money in the long term. Laser hair removal can also improve skin tone and texture, as it does not cause pigmentation or uneven skin which you can experience with shaving or waxing.
Like with any laser hair removal treatment there is a minimal amount of ‘downtime’, but certain activities should be avoided temporarily. It is important to avoid any sun exposure to the treated area for 10 days pre and post treatment. Exercise should be avoided for up to 48 hours post treatment as well as any activities that encourage sweating. Think hot showers, swimming pools and saunas. Finally, as the skin may be more sensitive avoid using exfoliating body lotions immediately before and after your sessions.
Will laser hair removal remove all hair?
You can expect a 10% to 25% reduction in hair after the first treatment. To remove the hair, most patients need 2 to 6 laser treatments. After finishing the treatments, most patients do not see any hair on the treated skin for several months or even years. When the hair regrows, there tends to be less of it.
