TLDR Dermatologists play a key role in treating skin symptoms of PCOS like dark patches, excess hair, acne, and hair loss.
In the document from November 2014, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is described as a prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by hormonal imbalances that lead to a variety of metabolic, reproductive, and cardiovascular issues. The document emphasizes the importance of dermatologists in recognizing and treating the skin-related symptoms of PCOS, which include acanthosis nigricans, hirsutism, acne, and alopecia. These symptoms are indicative of the underlying hyperandrogenism and hyperinsulinemia that are central to the condition. The article serves as part one of a continuing medical education series, aiming to educate dermatologists on the definition, causes, development, and clinical manifestations of PCOS.
169 citations
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August 2004 in “Baillière's best practice & research. Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology/Baillière's best practice and research in clinical obstetrics and gynaecology”
Lower doses of treatments for hirsutism and acne in PCOS are effective and cause fewer side effects.
OP shares their experience with PCOS-related hair loss, highlighting that addressing vitamin D and ferritin deficiencies, managing hormones with spironolactone, and using gentle hair care products helped improve their condition. They advise against relying on "miracle" hair oils and emphasize the importance of medical evaluation and a combined approach to treatment.
A female with PCOS and androgenetic alopecia is starting treatment with oral Minoxidil, topical Minoxidil 5% with finasteride, and plans to add mesotherapy. She previously tried anti-androgenic contraceptive pills but couldn't tolerate them and is using Myo Inositol for weight management.
A 20-year-old female with PCOS is experiencing hair loss and excessive facial hair. She is using ketoconazole and caffeine shampoos, microneedling, and considering anti-androgens like finasteride, but is cautious about minoxidil due to facial hair concerns.
A 30-year-old female with PCOS and male pattern baldness is frustrated with her endocrinologist's recommendation of only Spironolactone and minoxidil, feeling that dutasteride, finasteride, and progesterone would be more effective. Other users suggest various online sources for treatments, warn against self-medicating due to potential risks, and recommend seeking a specialized endocrinologist or considering additional treatments like Inositol, Berberine, and dermaneedling.
27-year-old female experiences aggressive hair thinning and hirsutism despite normal testosterone levels. Spironolactone and 2% minoxidil were ineffective; high DHEA sulfate levels may be the cause.
Female with PCOS experiences receding and thinning hair, wants dutasteride instead of spironolactone. Discusses desire to reduce DHT without losing libido.
2 citations
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September 2016 in “Journal of skin and stem cell”
Acne is strongly linked to high BMI, hair loss, menstrual issues, family history, and eating too many sweets and fatty foods, but not to excessive hair growth.
3 citations
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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.
