Yes! Laser hair removal is an incredible treatment for hormonal hair growth. Unlike shaving or waxing, laser hair removal helps target the root cause of unwanted hair. With a focused beam of light, it targets the hair follicle directly, to inhibit the production of new hair.
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses laser energy to remove unwanted hair. But many wonder if it's effective on hormonal hair. The answer is yes, laser hair removal can work on hormonal hair.
The point is that people with hormone imbalance should not get laser hair removal treatment until they reach full balance. In this case, the hair removed by treatment comes back in a few months.
Rarely, laser hair removal can cause blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture. Other rare side effects include graying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, particularly on darker skin.
This is a sign that the laser successfully treated the follicle, and it's clearing out the dead hair shaft. This shedding process, also called “peppering,” can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. In some cases, it may feel like the hair is growing back because it's breaking through the skin.
Estrogen-progestin contraceptive pills, rings, and patches lower the levels of androgens produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. They are usually the first choice for the treatment of hirsutism, and between 60 and 100 percent of females with hirsutism will notice improvement when taking these medications.
PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, can often cause excessive hair growth in unwanted areas. Laser hair removal can effectively manage this condition, but it may require more sessions than usual. This is because the hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS can make the hair follicles more resistant to laser treatment.
If you choose to groom your pubic hair yourself, take your time and use soap or shaving cream as a lubricant. Use a mirror as a guide, so you can see what you're doing. Also, don't shave, wax, or laser within 2 weeks of a planned gynecological surgery.
Who Should Avoid Laser Hair Removal. People who are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments, should avoid laser hair removal. It can also be a bad fit for people with certain skin conditions, like a history of skin cancer or keloid scars. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also put off hair removal.
“The lasers we use penetrate less than one millimeter into the skin, so there's no way they could reach your ovaries. But even if they did—which they never, ever could—they wouldn't do anything, anyway. They work on pigment and have no bearing on fertility.” Therefore, there's nothing to worry about.
How are hormonal imbalances treated? Treatment for a hormonal imbalance will depend on what's causing it. If you have lower-than-normal hormone levels, the main treatment is hormone replacement therapy. Depending on which hormone is deficient, you may take oral medication (pills) or injection medication.
Most insurance providers classify laser hair removal as a cosmetic procedure, which typically leads to a lack of coverage. However, exceptions exist, particularly when such treatments are deemed medically necessary—for instance, in severe cases of hirsutism caused by polycystic ovary syndrome.
While laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth, it doesn't always eliminate it completely, and some may still require occasional touch-ups. Skin reactions can also play a role in feelings of regret, although this is rare when the procedure is done correctly.
Yes, certain lasers like the Diode or Nd:YAG are particularly effective for targeting coarse and dark hairs commonly associated with hormonal growth. These lasers are designed to work on a wide range of skin tones and hair types, ensuring safe and efficient results.
Women with PCOS often have sensitive skin that can be easily irritated by traditional hair removal methods. Laser hair removal offers a gentler alternative, targeting the hair follicle without damaging the surrounding skin. This results in smoother and softer skin, reducing the risk of irritation or ingrown hairs.
Herbal supplements, essential oils, and scalp massages can help combat hair loss caused by PCOS. A balanced diet with adequate nutrients is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Managing stress, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can promote hair health in individuals with PCOS.
Hair Shedding – After a laser hair removal treatment, it's common for the treated hair to shed. This shedding process can take 10-14 days post treatment. And during this time, it may appear as though the hair is growing back thicker and darker. However, this is simply the hair follicle shedding the treated hair.
Expect no downtime after your first treatment. The area will be red and swollen, but that diminishes within a day or so. Use a cold compress to reduce any swelling. Complications are quite rare like blisters or scarring.