Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (commonly known as PCOS) has become one of the most significant hormone disorders among women. The name refers to small cysts that may form on the ovaries which release excess androgen, a male reproductive hormone. The presence of excess androgen can cause weight loss difficulty, irregular menstruation, oily or acne prone skin, hyperpigmentation (dark, discolored skin) around the neck, underarms, and breasts, as well as excess hair growth (often referred to as Hirsutism.) The direct cause of PCOS is still unknown. Studies thus far have shown that insulin resistance, obesity, and family history can contribute to the development of this syndrome. 1 in 10 women suffer with PCOS, yet 50% of cases remain undiagnosed. While symptoms can be an indicator that something may be going on within your body, you cannot diagnose PCOS based on symptoms alone. Extensive blood tests, ultrasounds, and reviewing your family medical history will be imperative to receive the correct diagnosis.
Treatment for PCOS will vary based on each individual case. Treatment can include a combination of medications, hormone therapy, nutrition and weight loss plans, and hair removal treatments. Laser hair removal is the most sought out treatment for patients suffering with Hirsutism. While alternative methods of hair removal, such as waxing, sugaring, and shaving offer a temporary fix to the symptom of hair growth, they do not affect the rate at which hair follicle produces hair nor do they improve upon skin texture and quality at the same level of efficacy as laser hair removal.
Aesthetics at Boro Park OBGYN utilizes top of the line laser technology to provide quick, effective, and virtually painless hair removal treatments. Our laser system is adjusted to your skin and hair color to ensure maximum safety and maximum results. This laser energy, when delivered to the hair in pulses, absorbs the melanin (pigment) of the hair and converts into heat. The heat then travels down the hair shaft, into the follicle to destroy it. A destroyed follicle will no longer produce hair, which is the ultimate goal of treatment! Because our hair grows in cycles, a series of 6-10 laser treatments is recommended to obtain the best results. In some cases, especially for patients with PCOS or any hormonal disorder, more than 10 treatments may be needed. This is due to the constant changing or hormone levels which affect hair growth patterns. Touch up sessions may be needed a few times a year to keep new growth at bay.
Laser hair removal has a reputation of being painful, expensive, and risky specifically for individuals with dark complexions. Aesthetics at Boro Park OBGYN conducted extensive research on existing laser technology and carefully selected the Alma Soprano Ice system for our laser treatments. This system is top of the line, extremely safe, clinically tried, and FDA approved. Results are guaranteed, with minimal discomfort and it is 100% safe for all skin tones. Pricing will ultimately vary based on your desired treatment area and the number of treatments necessary to effectively reduce unwanted hair growth.
There are a few steps that need to be taken prior to beginning laser hair removal treatments. Tanning (sun-bathing, up tanning beds, and/or self-tanning products) must be discontinued 2 weeks prior to treatment. Alternative methods of hair removal such as waxing, tweezing, sugaring, etc. must be discontinued 4-6 weeks prior to beginning treatments and through the entirety of your laser journey. These methods remove the hair from the follicle completely, leaving nothing behind for the laser energy to target. Shaving is the only method of hair removal allowed while receiving laser treatments. You will be expected to shave the area to be treated the night before your scheduled appointment, this way the laser energy can penetrate the hair follicle and effectively damage it. Any medications that affect your sun or light sensitivity must be reported to your laser technician and discontinued a minimum of 2 weeks prior to your appointment. During treatment the sensations of heat, prickling, and a snapping compared to that of a rubber band on the skin have been reported. Our experienced staff will ensure that your laser hair removal experience is as comfortable as possible, communicating every step of the process to you as it happens so you know what to expect.
Have unanswered questions about PCOS and Laser Hair Removal? Ready to schedule your FREE consultation to get started on your hair removal journey? Visit our website www.boroparkmedspa.com or call/text us directly at (917) 502-9018 to speak with our staff today and get started on your custom treatment plan!