Beauty writer Rachel Medlock discusses service and communication best practice for PCOS clients.

September is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month, and while I’m not holding my breath for any medals, I’ll settle for a knowing nod from my fellow ‘cysters’ – the one in ten women who’ve found themselves in a club nobody signed up for.

PCOS is often dismissed as merely a reproductive issue, but it disrupts metabolic health, mental wellbeing, and skin vitality. Elevated insulin levels lead to higher androgens, triggering symptoms like brain fog, irregular periods, cortisol spikes and excessive hair growth. Elevated testosterone levels are to blame, making hair removal a daily necessity. Miss a day with the tweezers, and suddenly, you’re sporting a five o’clock shadow.

A quick search on hair removal for PCOS reveals many options – lasers, electrolysis, creams, shaving, threading – but waxing remains a popular choice for reliability, affordability, and precision. To better understand how beauty professionals can support clients with PCOS, I spoke with Emily Winters, Senior Therapist and Manager of Beauty and Bronze.

How to wax PCOS clients

Emily knows that waxing isn’t merely about hair removal; it’s about providing comfort, care, and a tailored experience. “When treating PCOS-impacted areas, smaller sections of wax are often the way to go,” Emily advises. “Especially if your client has sensitive skin, removing the wax with gentle pressure can help keep them comfortable.”

PCOS can cause thicker, coarser hair, requiring more frequent services. Emily suggests using waxes specifically designed for coarse hair to get the best results and emphasises techniques that are gentle on the skin, like using lower-temperature wax or opting for hard wax. “Be kind to the skin by avoiding waxing the same area multiple times in one session – this helps reduce irritation,” she adds.

Kind communication is key

The conversation with PCOS clients is just as meaningful as the technique. PCOS can be a sensitive topic, and how you approach it makes all the difference. “Create a safe and understanding space,” Emily recommends. “Asking open-ended questions helps you get to know their concerns better and lets you tailor the service to their needs.” It’s about empathy, reassurance, and building trust.

“PCOS can be a sensitive topic, and how you approach it makes all the difference.”

Emily acknowledges the importance of setting realistic expectations in the treatment room, pointing out that hormonal swings can make hair growth unpredictable. “Educating clients on how PCOS might impact their waxing experience, like the possibility of quicker hair regrowth or skin sensitivity, can help them feel more at ease. Reassure them that these are common issues, and you’re here to support them every step of the way”.

For those of us living with PCOS, managing hair isn’t purely a matter of vanity; it’s about regaining a sense of control. Waxing can be a fantastic option, but it’s all about the right techniques, the best products, and a healthy dose of empathy. When you bring that extra care and understanding to the table, you’re not just waxing their skin – you’re honouring what’s underneath it, too.

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