Hair Removal Options for PCOS: What You Need to Know

For many women with PCOS, unwanted hair growth (hirsutism) can be one of the most visible and frustrating symptoms. It can take a toll on confidence, daily routines, and emotional wellbeing. While hair removal methods are widely available, those with PCOS often need to be more strategic due to hormonal drivers, skin sensitivities, and the need for ongoing management.

In this guide, we’ll explore hair removal options, precautions for PCOS, why high androgens occur, and what you can do - both inside and out to support longer-term results.

Why Does PCOS Cause Excess Hair Growth?

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is linked with higher levels of androgens (male hormones such as testosterone and DHEA). In women, androgens help regulate many body functions, but elevated levels can stimulate hair follicles in certain areas (face, chest, back, abdomen), leading to coarse, dark hairs in places you may not want them.

Why androgens may be high in PCOS:

• Insulin resistance: Increases ovarian testosterone production.
• Ovarian overproduction of androgens.
• Adrenal contribution (stress hormones can feed into androgen production).
• Inflammation: May disrupt hormonal signalling.

Hair Removal Options for PCOS

Since high androgen levels are the root cause, hair removal treats the symptom, not the source. You may need to combine cosmetic methods with medical or nutritional strategies for best results.

1. Waxing

• How it works: Hair is pulled from the root, lasting 3-6 weeks.
• Pros: Smooth finish, relatively quick, can cover larger areas.
• Cons for PCOS: Hair may grow back faster due to hormonal drive; repeated waxing can cause skin irritation, pigmentation, or ingrown hairs, especially if cycles are frequent.
• Best for: Legs, arms, body areas with lower skin sensitivity.

2. Laser Hair Removal

• How it works: Light energy targets pigment in hair follicles, damaging them to slow regrowth.
• Pros: Can significantly reduce hair growth over time; works best on dark hair and light skin.
• Cons for PCOS: More sessions may be needed; results may not be permanent if androgen levels remain high; less effective on light/blonde/grey hairs.
• Caution: Hormonal regrowth is common; maintenance sessions may be needed every 6-12 months. Some find laser hair removal can make regrowth worse and cause hyperpigmentation

3. Electrolysis

• How it works: An electric current destroys hair follicle cells permanently.
• Pros: Only method recognised as permanent by the FDA; works on all hair colours and skin types.
• Cons: Time-consuming (treats one hair at a time); can be costly; mild discomfort during treatment.
• Best for: Small areas like chin, upper lip, or stray coarse hairs.

4. Other At-Home Methods

• Epilators: Pull hair from the root; can be uncomfortable but convenient.
• Hair removal creams: Dissolve hair; quick but may cause irritation if used often.
• Shaving: Fast and easy, but hair returns quickly; may feel coarser as it grows.

Cautions for PCOS Skin

• Increased sensitivity: Higher risk of irritation or hyperpigmentation, especially with repeated waxing or harsh creams.
• Ingrown hairs: More common with coarse regrowth; exfoliation and gentle skin care help prevent them.
• Hormonal regrowth: Even “permanent” methods may need top-ups if hormones aren’t balanced.

Supporting Hair Management from the Inside

While hair removal helps on the surface, addressing androgen levels and insulin resistance can make hair growth easier to manage long term.

Supplements that may help (with professional guidance):

• Myo-Inositol: Support insulin sensitivity and healthy ovarian hormone balance.
• Spearmint tea or extract: Some evidence of lowering free testosterone.
• Zinc: Supports hormonal regulation and skin health.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Help reduce inflammation that can influence hormonal signalling.

• Vitamin D: Deficiency is common in PCOS and may affect hormone metabolism.

Nt: Always consult your healthcare provider before starting supplements, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication.

The Bottom Line

For PCOS, hair removal is rarely a one and done fix - a combination of external treatments (wax, laser, electrolysis) and internal hormonal support tends to give the best results. Be patient, monitor your results, and remember - addressing the root cause will help every hair removal method deliver better, longer lasting results.