Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) brings about a mix of symptoms, from irregular periods to fertility twists and hormonal rollercoasters.

But guess what? PCOS isn’t just about all that. It can also mess with your skin!

Let’s see how?

Acne

One of the most common skin problems associated with PCOS is acne. You might find yourself battling those pesky pimples long after your teenage years. Here’s why:

Hormonal Havoc

PCOS often leads to higher levels of androgens, which are male hormones that both men and women have but in different amounts.

Too much of this hormone can cause your oil glands to go into overdrive. This leads to oily skin and clogged pores which are a breeding ground for acne.

Insulin Resistance

PCOS and insulin resistance have long been acquainted. Think of insulin resistance as the body’s way of saying, “I’m not quite sure how to use insulin properly.”

This little confusion can lead to more androgens and, yep, you guessed it, more acne.

What You Can Do for Acne

Skincare Routine: Establish a good skincare routine. Make sure it includes gentle cleansing and exfoliation. Also, use non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) products as they are known to help.

Topical Treatments: Think about trying out readily available solutions that contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These components have a solid reputation for helping you tackle acne effectively.

Hormonal Birth Control: FOR SOME, hormonal birth control methods like the pill can help regulate hormones and improve acne.

Diet and Exercise: Eating a balanced diet and staying active can help manage insulin resistance, which may reduce acne.

Excess Hair Growth

Another common skin-related issue with PCOS is hirsutism—a fancy word for excess hair growth in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the face, chest, and back.

Here’s why PCOS can lead to this hairy situation:

Androgens Again

High levels of androgens can trigger hair follicles in certain areas to become more sensitive to the hormones. This makes the hair in those areas thicker and darker.

What You Can Do for Excess Hair Growth:

Shaving: The most straightforward method is to shave unwanted hair. It’s quick and easy but needs to be done regularly.

Waxing: Waxing can keep hair at bay for a more extended period than shaving, but it can be painful.

Depilatory Creams: These creams break down the hair, making it easy to wipe away. However, they can irritate the skin, so be cautious.

Electrolysis and Laser Hair Removal: These methods offer longer-term results, but they can be expensive and might require multiple sessions.

Medications: In some cases, medications like anti-androgens or oral contraceptives can help reduce excess hair growth by regulating hormone levels.

The Bottom Line 

Coping with acne and that extra hair can definitely be a handful, but hey, you’re not in this boat alone!

There are ways to handle these issues. And remember, your skin is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to your overall well-being.

So, keep looking after your awesome self and don’t shy away from getting support when you need it … You’ve totally got this!