Electrolysis for PCOS and Hormonal Facial Hair

Most people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have some unwanted hair growth, called hirsutism, often on the chin, jaw, upper lip, and neck. Electrolysis permanently removes these hairs one follicle at a time, including fine and light hairs that laser cannot treat. At Celestial Electrolysis in San Francisco, Jade has years of experience with PCOS clients.

Why PCOS causes facial hair

PCOS often raises androgen levels (hormones such as testosterone). Androgens can change fine, soft facial hair into thicker, darker hair. Because hormone levels stay high, new hairs can keep appearing over time. This is why shaving, plucking, and waxing feel like a never-ending cycle.

Why electrolysis works well for PCOS

It is permanent for each follicle it treats. A treated follicle cannot grow hair again.
It works on every hair color. Laser needs dark hair. Electrolysis also treats blonde, red, grey, and white hairs.
It is precise. We treat only the hairs you want gone, which is ideal for the chin, jawline, and upper lip.
It avoids a known laser risk. Laser on the face and neck can sometimes trigger new hair growth (paradoxical hypertrichosis), especially with hormonal conditions.

Work with your doctor, too

Electrolysis removes the hairs you have now. Hormonal treatment from your doctor can slow the growth of new hairs. Many clients get the best results with both: medical care to slow new growth, and electrolysis to clear what is there. Ask your doctor which options are right for you.

What to expect

Frequent sessions at first. Early on, weekly or every-other-week sessions catch hairs as they appear.
Fewer sessions over time. As treated follicles stop growing, sessions get shorter and less frequent.
A typical timeline. Many PCOS clients see a large reduction within the first year. New hairs caused by hormones may need short maintenance visits.
No plucking between visits. Plucking makes follicles harder to treat. Trimming or shaving is fine.

Insurance

Some plans cover electrolysis for hirsutism when a doctor documents medical necessity. With a prior authorization from your plan, we bill your insurance directly. See our insurance guide.

Questions we often hear

Will electrolysis work if I have PCOS? Yes. Each treated follicle is permanently disabled. Because PCOS can create new hair follicles over time, some clients need occasional maintenance sessions.

How do I get rid of PCOS facial hair permanently? Electrolysis is the only method the FDA allows to be marketed as permanent hair removal. Combining it with medical care to slow new growth gives the best long-term result.

How many sessions will I need for my chin? It depends on how many hairs you have and your hormones. Most clients come often at first and then less often. We give you an estimate after your first visit.

Is laser or electrolysis better for PCOS? Laser can help with dense, dark hair on suitable skin, but it does not treat light or grey hair and can trigger new growth on the face in some people. Electrolysis treats every hair. See electrolysis vs laser.