Abstract
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to observe the impact of laser-assisted hair removal (LAHR) on the quality of life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-associated hirsutism. METHODOLOGY: An observational study was conducted on 172 women living with PCOS at a specialized clinic. The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Ferriman-Gallwey (FG) score were employed to assess the quality of life and severity of hirsutism, respectively. Laser therapy was administered using ruby diode or alexandrite lasers. Follow-up on the DLQI and FG score assessment was done at 12-, 18-, and 24-week post-treatment. RESULTS: The number of cases that reported stress, anxiety, and depression reduced over time. However, there was no correlation between the patient-reported decrease and DLQI scores. The FG score was significantly related to mental health. The severity of the hirsutism impacted mental health. The regrowth of hair at six months indicated limited long-term efficacy LAHR. CONCLUSION: LAHR significantly improves the quality of life in the short term for women living with PCOS. However, the short-term benefit of the therapy indicates a need for research to find new treatment strategies.