No one wants to deal with acne, oily skin, excessive facial and body hair or hair loss, and brittle nails. Unfortunately, women with PCOS may have to deal with these symptoms that adversely affect their appearance due to increased male hormones (androgens).
In addition, you may also be prone to issues like irregular periods, weight gain, difficulty conceiving, and even stress. Of course, with all these symptoms, it’s natural for women to get highly stressed out. What’s great is that you can find a natural PCOS multivitamin that ensures your overall well-being with this condition. But remember to consult with your healthcare provider.
If you’re extremely concerned about the condition of your skin, hair, and nails with PCOS, we’ll share the effects and practical tips in this article.
Effects of PCOS on Skin
With PCOS, most women deal with oily skin and acne due to high androgen levels that lead to excessive sebum production and acne. Although the effects are different from individual to individual, you may also notice dry, dark patches on the back of your neck or other areas.
Tips for Healthy Skin with PCOS
For your skin issues, your healthcare provider will find the underlying reason to ensure the treatment is as effective as possible.
For instance, to treat acne caused by PCOS, your doctor may recommend oral contraceptives, anti-androgen drugs,and prescription-strength oral retinoids.
Skincare products containing salicylic, vitamin C, azelaic acid, and niacinamide can help with pigmentation. LED therapy, lasers, and peels are also effective but should be first consulted with your dermatologist.
Effects of PCOS on Hair
High levels of male hormones (androgens) also affect hair growth. Due to this, you may have to deal with excessive hair growth on the face (upper lip and chin) and lower back and abdomen. On the other hand, some women also have to cope with hair loss in the front part of the head.
Tips for Healthy Hair with PCOS
Your healthcare provider may recommend birth control pills to control the levels of hormones responsible for hair problems. Rogaine (minoxidil) or spironolactone medication may also help with hair growth.
Laser and hair/scalp massage can stimulate hair growth if you’re experiencing hair loss. Supplements like zinc, biotin, and collagen may also help with hair growth. Again, your doctor will better guide you based on your situation.
Effects of PCOS on Nails
Brittle, curled, and split nails aren’t attractive, but with PCOS, you may, unfortunately, experience this as well. Onychorrhexis and onycholysis (nail separation) are the medical terms for these nail-related conditions in PCOS.
Excess androgen may cause these conditions, but they are aggravated if you have an underactive thyroid or abnormalities in blood sugar levels.
Tips for Healthy Nails with PCOS
Your healthcare provider will diagnose if any underlying health conditions, as we’ve just mentioned, are exacerbating the poor condition of your nails and will treat them.
However, they may also prescribe supplements that contain biotin, calcium, zinc, proteins, and magnesium to ensure the strength and appearance of your nails.
Conclusion
Not having healthy skin, hair, and nails with PCOS may be a problem for most women struggling with this condition. Of course, it may adversely affect your mental health as well. However, you must ensure you talk to your healthcare provider, so they can properly diagnose the issue and advise an effective treatment accordingly.
