PCOS also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome impacts an estimated 5 million women annually, yet shockingly, less than half are aware of their condition.
This lack of diagnosis leaves countless women uninformed about the hormonal imbalances and metabolic issues they face due to PCOS.
A genetically inherited metabolic disorder, PCOS is often tied to insulin resistance. This condition prompts the ovaries to overproduce androgens, also known as male hormones. When considering the effects of PCOS on the body, it’s crucial to observe the skin, which acts as a revealing mirror to internal changes.
Skin PCOS symptoms are a direct manifestation of this disorder, showcasing the internal turmoil caused by hormonal imbalances.
It’s essential to be cautious about certain skin products when dealing with PCOS, as some can exacerbate these skin-related symptoms.
What does PCOS do to your skin?
- Dark skin patches (acanthosis nigricans)
- Certain forms of acne
- Keratosis Pilaris (appears as tiny bumps on the skin. Some people say these bumps look like goosebumps or the skin of a plucked chicken)
- Excessive oily skin (since PCOS results in an excess of testosterone, DHEA, and insulin, this commonly leads to overactivity of the sebaceous glands and overproduction of oil in the skin pores)
- Dry skin patches and dandruff
- Skin tags
Approaching PCOS and skin issues requires a multi-level approach. Firstly, I encourage women to avoid sugars, refined carbohydrates, trans fats, dairy, and non-organic meat.
For insights on diversifying and upgrading your diet, check out the entire podcast episode with Dr. Felice L. Gersh.
The truth is that there is so much YOU CAN EAT. Learn more about the wonderful, delicious food that’s out there for you to enjoy in my number one bestselling book, Clean Skin From Within.
Also, it is critical that you use non-toxic, natural products on your skin that are free of hormone-disrupting chemicals. My Daily Essentials 4-Step Skincare System is perfectly pH balanced between 4.5-5.0 and they help protect and hydrate skin. Plus, they are effective for all skin types.
The Spa Dr. Daily Essentials 4-Step System includes:
Step 1 – CLEAR: Gentle Cleanser
The Gentle Cleanser is activated by water to remove make-up and impurities from the skin. It contains argan oil, aloe, and arnica extract along with other natural ingredients to gently cleanse, replace lost lipids, and restore your skin’s natural pH. It’s naturally scented with organic virgin white coconut.
Step 2 – NOURISH: Antioxidant Serum
The Antioxidant Serum contains antioxidants like resveratrol as well as chlorella and hyaluronic acid and other natural ingredients that instantly hydrate and nourish to combat aging, environmental stress, and inflammation.
Step 3 – RENEW: Enriched Moisturizer
The Enriched Moisturizer keeps your skin healthy, protected, and silky smooth. It’s a sublime moisturizer with top virgin, cold-pressed oils, and skin hydrators (like Camelina and Argan oils) as well as a green, black, and white tea blend to naturally restore your skin, protect against oxidative damage, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. This perfectly pH-balanced moisturizer protects your skin against dryness and aging and renews your skin for softer, clearer skin.
Step 4 – ENHANCE: Glow Boost
The Glow Boost is the perfect finishing touch. It hydrates with a beautiful blend of natural organic plant oils (such as cranberry, pomegranate, and raspberry seed oils). These contain high amounts of skin-loving fatty acids and powerful antioxidants and we add Vitamin E, and CoQ10 to ensure your skin is fully enhanced. It helps smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Get the entire walkthrough on the 4-Step Age-Defying Clean Skincare System from Dr. Trevor Cates in the following video.
Here’s a list of what sin products to stay away from especially if have (or suspect you have) PCOS:
- Fragrance
- Formaldehyde
- Mineral oil
- Petrochemicals
- Triclosan
- SD Alcohol
- Parabens
- Artificial color
Instead of chemicals, treat your skin with love. And, remember, the best solution for PCOS is to address the root cause. If you need help, find a naturopathic physician or functional medicine doctor near you who specializes in PCOS.
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