TLDR IPL can cause unexpected hair growth in nearby untreated areas.
The study investigated the paradoxical effect of intense pulsed light (IPL) photoepilation in 49 females with facial hirsutism, specifically focusing on unexpected hair growth in untreated areas near the treated zones. Five patients, aged 13 to 44, all with skin phototype III and diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome, exhibited this effect. These patients underwent six to nine IPL sessions, and the paradoxical hair growth appeared between the third treatment session and up to six months post-treatment. The study concluded that IPL could activate dormant hair follicles in areas adjacent to those treated for hirsutism.
14 citations,
February 2016 in “Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research” Blood tests are needed to confirm high male hormone levels in women with PCOS, as physical signs alone are not reliable.
3 citations,
January 2012 in “Hanyang Medical Reviews” The document concludes that more research is needed to create suitable diagnostic criteria and understand PCOS in Korean women, and genetics may allow for personalized treatment.
January 2011 in “Journal of pediatric endocrinology & metabolism/Journal of pediatric endocrinology and metabolism” Hyperthyroidism can hide signs of high androgen levels in females.
85 citations,
June 2006 in “Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” The document concludes that hirsutism is the main sign for diagnosing hyperandrogenism, which requires a detailed patient history and physical exam.
1 citations,
April 1993 in “Problemy e̊ndokrinologii” Spironolactone effectively reduces symptoms of hyperandrogenism like hirsutism and acne.
