Laser Therapy for Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome-Associated Hirsutism

The recent study assessed the impact of laser-assisted hair removal (LAHR) on the quality of life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-associated hirsutism by using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Ferriman-Gallwey (FG) scores. The study administered Laser therapy using ruby diode or alexandrite lasers and evaluated the DLQI and FG score at 12-, 18-, and 24-week post-treatment.

The study observed

• Reduction in the number of cases reporting stress, anxiety, and depression over time. 
• No correlation between the patient-reported decrease and DLQI scores.
• Significant relation between FG score and mental health. 
• Direct relationship between severity of the hirsutism and mental health. 
• Regrowth of hairs at six months indicating limited long-term efficacy LAHR.

This study shows that LAHR significantly improves the quality of life in the short term for women living with PCOS. However, its short-term benefit necessitates more research to find new treatment strategies.

Sakina S, Behram F, Jadoon SK, et al. Impact of Laser Therapy on the Quality of Life in Women Living With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome-Associated Hirsutism: An Observational Study. Cureus. 2024 May 26;16(5):e61125. doi: 10.7759/cureus.61125. PMID: 38813070; PMCID: PMC11134484.