WHAT IS PCOS?
It is a hormonal disorder in which the ovaries become enlarged and produce an abnormal number of androgens (male sex hormones). This high level of androgens creates a hormone imbalance that can prevent ovulation, causing irregular periods and infertility issues. PCOS can also increase the risk of other health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea and strokes.
SYMPTOMS YOU MAY NOTICE:
• Hair thinning or male-pattern baldness
• Trouble sleeping or chronic drowsiness
• Headaches
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Fertility problems
• Weight gain
HOW PCOS AFFECTS THE SKIN:
Androgens influence hair growth, oil production and pigmentation in the skin. When women’s androgen levels are higher than normal, they can develop skin issues like oily or acne-prone skin.
Acne results from bacteria, excess oil and dead skin cells clogging the pores, creating lesions. Because androgens activate the sebaceous glands, women with PCOS have a higher chance of breaking out.
PCOS-related acne often appears on the lower face, around the jawline, chin and upper neck—the typical pattern for hormonal acne. These lesions may be deeper, larger and highly resistant to treatments, often leaving acne scars.
Acne symptoms may worsen when women are on their period, thanks to the influx of progesterone—a female sex hormone that also stimulates sebum production. While women with PCOS may not have regular periods, they can still take measures to prevent breakouts during this stage of their menstrual cycle.
MANAGING SYMPTOMS
When caring for hormonal acne, the best strategy is to calm the inflammation around the lesions while also eliminating the three acne triggers: bacteria, oil and dead skin. Inflammation leaves the skin very sensitive and tender. Reducing it will not only eliminate any redness but also help your client’s skin feel significantly better.
INGREDIENTS
Look for ingredients that decrease inflammation, such as aloe vera, chamomile and arnica montana. These highly soothing botanicals are incredibly healing, reviving your client’s natural radiance.
Icing the treated area will also calm the skin and reduce soreness.
Use benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or sulfur to remove bacteria, dead skin cells and excess oil from the skin. Eliminating these triggers will help keep the follicles clean and reduce the chance of breakouts.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Acne Med
- Sal C Toner
- Comfort Cream
TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Chemical Peels (Reduce acne and acne scars at the same time. These peels lift pigment while removing dead skin and excess sebum.)
- Dermaplaning (Fades acne scars as well as removes any unwanted hair. By removing the top layer of skin with a thin blade, dermaplaning allows a fresh layer of skin to emerge)
- DMK Enzyme Therapy (Brings this skin back to homeostasis)
