Yes. Both acne and unwanted hair growth, a condition called hirsutism, are direct consequences of the elevated androgen levels that characterise PCOS. Androgens, sometimes called male hormones, are present in all women but are produced in excess in PCOS, and this excess stimulates oil glands in the skin, leading to acne on the face, jaw, chest, and upper back, and triggers hair follicles in hormone-sensitive areas to produce coarser, darker hair on the face, chin, upper lip, chest, and abdomen. Hair thinning at the scalp can also occur as a result of androgenic effects on scalp follicles. The degree of these symptoms varies considerably between women with PCOS and does not always correlate with how abnormal hormone levels appear on a blood test, because individual sensitivity to androgens also plays a role. Treatment addresses the androgen excess directly using hormonal medications that reduce androgen activity, alongside skin-directed treatments for acne where needed. Dr Vineetha Kiran evaluates androgen-related symptoms as part of her full PCOS assessment at Kiran Speciality Hospital, Hassan, and tailors treatment to each woman's specific skin, hair, and hormonal profile.
Written by Dr Vineetha Kiran, MBBS, MS (Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gold Medalist, KMC Mangalore University), Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Kiran Speciality Hospital, Hassan, Karnataka.
