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Hair serum is a popular hair care product that can improve the way your hair looks, feels and behaves. Depending on the formula, it may help with flyaways, dullness, styling and other common hair concerns. Depending on the formula, a serum can also help protect hair during styling or target specific concerns such as dryness and roughness. Some serums are made for the hair lengths and ends, while scalp-focused serums are designed for concerns such as hair thinning and increased shedding. In this guide, we explain what hair serum does, its benefits, common ingredients, different types, how to use it and whether it is suitable for daily use. What Is Hair Serum? Hair serum is a lightweight hair care product that is applied to the hair to improve its look and feel. Hair serum contains ingredients that sit on the outside of the hair and help improve its texture and appearance. Serum is generally used in a small amount. You can spread it over the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. It can make hair easier to comb, style and manage without making it feel heavy. Hair serums come in different formulas. Some are made for frizz and dryness, while others are made for shine, heat styling or scalp and hair concerns. If you prefer natural hair care, you can also explore traditional options such as applying curd on hair for conditioning and improving the feel of dry hair. How Is Hair Serum Different from Hair Oil? Hair serum and hair oil are used differently. The main difference is how you use them and what you expect them to do. Hair serum: Typically has a lighter texture. Is commonly applied to the mid-lengths and ends. Helps make hair look smoother and less frizzy. Can add shine without making the hair feel oily when used in the right amount. Most formulas are left on the hair and do not need to be washed out. Hair oil: It has a richer and heavier texture. This can be applied to the scalp, hair lengths or both, depending on the oil. Is often used before washing the hair. It can help condition the hair and reduce the dry, rough feel. Some oils can be left on the hair, while others are meant to be washed out. You can use hair oil when your routine calls for deeper conditioning and Hair serum when you want to tame flyaways or improve the way your hair looks after styling. For women looking for a scalp-focused serum, HealthFab Hair Growth Serum is formulated specifically for women's hair needs. What Does Hair Serum Do? Hair serum mainly works on the outside of the hair strand. It helps smooth the surface of the hair, making it feel softer and look more polished. Depending on the formula, hair serum can help: Reduce the appearance of frizz and make hair easier to style. Make rough hair feel smoother Add shine to dull-looking hair Make hair easier to manage Help reduce the dry, rough feel of the hair Not all serums are made for the same purpose. For example, HealthFab Hair Growth Serum is a scalp-focused leave-on serum formulated for women's hair concerns rather than a conventional serum used only on the hair lengths. It contains ingredients such as adenosine, Redensyl®, AnaGain™, Baicapil and caffeine, along with Korean plant exosome technology. So, what a hair serum does depends largely on its formulation and where it is meant to be applied. What Are the Benefits of Hair Serum? The benefits depend on the ingredients and the type of serum you choose. Some are made for the hair lengths, while scalp-focused serums are designed around concerns such as shedding and thinning. Support for scalp and hair concerns: Some serums are made for the scalp rather than the hair lengths. Adds shine: Some serums help give dull-looking hair a smoother surface, which can make it appear shinier. Better manageability: Hair that is difficult to comb or style can feel easier to handle after applying a small amount of serum. Improves the feel of dry hair: If your hair feels dry or rough, the right serum can improve how it feels without needing a large amount of product. Makes styling easier: Some hair serums contain ingredients that help protect hair during heat styling. This depends on the formula, so check the product instructions before using a serum with a straightener, curler or blow dryer. Is Hair Serum Good for Hair? Yes, hair serum can be good for your hair when you choose the right formula and use it in the right amount. It can help with common concerns such as frizz, roughness, dryness and difficult-to-manage hair. A serum made for smoothing the hair lengths is different from one made for the scalp. Using too much of a leave-in serum can also make your hair feel greasy, heavy or coated. Start by choosing a serum that matches what you want to address. Is Hair Serum Good for Daily Use? Yes, you can use some hair serums every day, but it depends on the product and your hair. If you use a regular hair serum, a few simple things can help: Use a small amount. Too much can make your hair look oily or flat. Apply it mainly to the mid-lengths and ends. Do not put a regular hair serum on your scalp unless the product says it is meant for scalp use. If your hair starts feeling heavy, sticky or coated, reduce how often you use it. Scalp-focused serums are different. HealthFab Hair Growth Serum is made to be applied to the scalp and is recommended for once-daily use. Use it as directed rather than applying more than the recommended amount. Can Hair Serum Have Side Effects? Hair serum can cause problems if the product does not suit you or if you use too much. It can cause problems if the product does not suit you or you use too much. Using more serum than needed can make your hair look oily, flat or sticky. A serum that is not made for the scalp may cause itching, redness or discomfort when applied there. Pay attention to your scalp: Check where the product is meant to be applied and follow the recommended amount. If you notice ongoing itching, burning, redness or a rash after using a serum, stop using it and speak with a doctor. Summary Hair serum can be a useful part of your hair care routine when you choose a product that matches your needs. What matters is choosing a formula that fits your hair and using it as directed. Use the amount recommended for the product and apply it where it is meant to be used. If you are dealing with increased shedding or thinning, look for a serum made specifically for the scalp rather than using a regular styling serum. Have you used a hair serum before? What changes did you notice after using it? Share your experience in the comments.

Key Takeaways PCOS can cause recurring acne. Hormonal changes can increase skin oil. PCOS acne may need medical treatment. Gentle skincare can help protect your skin. Persistent or painful acne needs medical advice. PCOS acne is a common skin concern. It is linked to hormonal changes in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Higher androgen activity can increase oil production in the skin, which may lead to blocked pores, pimples and recurring breakouts. You may notice these breakouts around the chin, jawline, face, neck, chest or back. If you have PCOS and keep getting breakouts, we suggest looking beyond your skincare routine. Let us look at why PCOS causes acne, what hormonal acne may look like and what can help you manage it. Can PCOS cause Acne? Yes, PCOS can cause acne. Hormonal changes in PCOS can increase androgen activity, which may make your skin produce more oil. Extra oil can mix with dead skin cells and block your pores, leading to pimples and repeated breakouts. PCOS-related acne is often seen in women with other PCOS symptoms, such as irregular periods, excess facial hair or scalp hair thinning. However, acne by itself does not mean you have PCOS. A doctor will look at your other symptoms and health history before identifying the cause. [NIH information on PCOS symptoms] Why Does PCOS cause Acne? Hormones play a big role in how your skin behaves. In PCOS, androgen levels can be higher than usual for some women. These hormones can make the oil glands more active, leaving more oil on the skin. When oil, dead skin cells and bacteria build up inside a pore, the pore can become blocked. This can lead to inflammation and different types of acne, including painful or deeper pimples. PCOS can also involve insulin resistance. If you want to understand the condition in more detail, our guide to PCOS causes, symptoms and treatment covers the wider picture. How Hormones Affect Your Skin Hormones can change how much oil your skin produces. In PCOS, higher androgen activity can make the oil glands work harder, which may set the stage for acne. Here is the process in simple terms: More androgen activity: Oil glands may become more active. More skin oil: Extra oil can collect inside pores. Blocked pores: Oil and dead skin cells can clog the pores. Inflammation: A blocked pore can become red, swollen or painful. Repeated breakouts: New pimples may keep appearing when the hormonal changes continue. This is why PCOS acne can be stubborn for some women. Treating the skin alone may not address the hormonal factors involved. Common Signs of PCOS Acne PCOS acne can look like other forms of hormonal acne, so the skin alone cannot confirm that PCOS is the cause. You may notice breakouts that keep returning, oily skin, red or inflamed pimples, or deeper spots that feel sore. Some women also find that their acne continues well into adulthood or becomes more noticeable around the chin and jawline. If acne comes along with irregular periods, excess facial hair or scalp hair thinning, it is worth discussing the pattern with your doctor. How Is PCOS Acne Different from Regular Acne? PCOS acne can look much like regular acne, so you cannot tell the cause from the pimples alone. The main difference is the hormonal pattern behind the breakouts. PCOS-related acne may keep returning because of hormonal changes linked to the condition. Look at the bigger picture rather than the acne alone. PCOS may also cause: Irregular or missed periods Excess facial or body hair Scalp hair thinning Weight changes If acne appears along with these signs, speak with your doctor. They can assess your symptoms and decide whether PCOS or another hormonal issue may be involved. Treat the PCOS and the Acne Treating PCOS acne usually means looking at both the skin and the hormonal factors behind it. Your doctor may suggest acne medicines, hormonal treatment or other PCOS treatment based on your symptoms and whether you are planning a pregnancy. Your overall PCOS care can include regular physical activity and a balanced eating pattern. Our PCOD diet chart can give you more ideas for planning your meals. Some treatments used for PCOS-related acne include: Topical acne medicines: These are applied directly to the skin. Hormonal treatment: Certain medicines may help control androgen-related symptoms. Anti-androgen medicines: These may be prescribed for some women when appropriate. Can PCOS Acne Go Away? Yes, PCOS acne can improve with the right care. Some women notice fewer breakouts when their PCOS is managed and acne treatment is started. For others, acne may return from time to time, so ongoing care may be needed. [AAD guidelines] Give your skin some time to respond to treatment rather than changing products every few days. If your acne remains painful, keeps returning or is leaving dark marks or scars, speak with your dermatologist. If you are noticing acne along with other changes in your body, our guide to PCOS symptoms and early signs may help you understand what to look for. When should you consult a doctor? If your acne keeps coming back or does not improve with basic skin care, talk to your doctor. You should also get medical advice if your pimples are painful, deep or leaving scars. It is a good idea to talk to your doctor if acne comes with irregular periods, extra facial hair or hair thinning on your scalp. These signs may point to a hormonal problem such as PCOS. Your doctor can check your symptoms and suggest the right treatment for your skin and PCOS. Summary PCOS can be one reason behind recurring acne, mainly because of hormonal changes that affect your skin. The breakouts may improve when you manage PCOS and use suitable acne treatment. We suggest keeping your skincare routine gentle and giving treatment enough time to work. If your acne is painful, keeps returning or comes with irregular periods, excess facial hair or scalp hair thinning, speak with your doctor. References National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (n.d.). What are the symptoms of PCOS? National Institutes of Health. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pcos/conditioninfo/symptoms National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (n.d.). What causes PCOS? National Institutes of Health. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pcos/conditioninfo/causes American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2024). Acne clinical guideline. https://www.aad.org/member/clinical-quality/guidelines/acne

Key Takeaways PCOS can cause skin darkening. Acanthosis nigricans can cause dark, thick skin. Insulin resistance is a common link. Dark patches often appear on skin folds. New or spreading pigmentation needs a doctor's advice. Have you noticed darker skin on your neck, underarms or other skin folds after developing PCOS? PCOS can cause dark patches on the neck, underarms and other areas where skin folds. This skin change is called acanthosis nigricans, where the skin becomes darker, thicker and velvety. This change is often linked to insulin resistance, a common concern in PCOS. So, if you have noticed PCOS skin darkening, there may be more to it than a change in skin colour. We will explain why it happens, what it looks like, and what you can do about it. It is often seen around the neck, underarms, groin and other skin folds. Can PCOS Cause Skin Darkening? Yes, PCOS can be linked to skin darkening. A common example is acanthosis nigricans, which causes darker, thicker and velvety skin. When the body does not respond well to insulin, insulin levels can rise. This skin change is often linked to insulin resistance. In some women, this can affect the skin and lead to darker, thicker patches. If you have PCOS and see these changes, we suggest consulting with your doctor. The skin change may be a sign that your blood sugar and insulin levels need attention. Why Does PCOS Cause Skin Darkening? PCOS-related skin darkening is often linked to insulin resistance. When your body does not use insulin properly, it may produce more insulin to keep your blood sugar in range. Higher insulin levels can affect skin cells, causing them to grow more than usual. This can make certain areas of your skin look darker and thicker. Where Does PCOS Skin Darkening Appear? PCOS-related darkening can show up in places where skin rubs together or forms folds. Common areas include: Neck: A dark patch may develop along the back or sides. Underarms: The skin can become darker and thicker. Groin: Pigmentation may appear around the inner thighs or groin folds. Inner thighs: Friction and skin folds can make the colour change more visible. Elbows and knees: Darker patches may occur in some people. Darkening that comes with thicker or velvety skin can be a sign of acanthosis nigricans. Why Is the Neck Often Affected? The neck is a common place for acanthosis nigricans to appear because it has natural skin folds where this change can become visible. You may first notice a darker band or patch around the back or sides of your neck. The skin may also feel different from the surrounding area: Darker colour Thicker texture Soft, velvety feel More visible skin lines If the skin on your neck has become darker and thicker, we suggest mentioning it during your next medical check-up. Is PCOS Skin Darkening Always Acanthosis Nigricans? No, not every case of skin darkening in a woman with PCOS is acanthosis nigricans. PCOS can occur along with other skin concerns, and pigmentation can have different causes. Acanthosis nigricans typically has a few clear features: The skin becomes darker than the surrounding area. It may feel thicker or softer than usual. The surface can have a velvety texture. It often develops around the neck, underarms or groin. If your skin has only changed colour without becoming thicker or velvety, it may not be acanthosis nigricans. A doctor or dermatologist can look at the skin and help find the reason. How Can You Manage PCOS Skin Darkening? There is no single cream or home remedy that works for every case of PCOS skin darkening. The right method depends on what is causing the change. We suggest looking after your PCOS and your skin at the same time. Focus on Your Overall PCOS Management Since insulin resistance can be linked with acanthosis nigricans, taking care of your metabolic health matters. Healthy eating and regular physical activity are part of PCOS care and can support better metabolic health. These habits can be useful even when weight loss is not your goal. You can start with simple habits that fit your routine: Choose balanced, nutritious meals. Stay physically active on most days. Follow the treatment advised by your doctor. Get blood sugar checks when your doctor recommends them. Avoid focusing only on the number on the weighing scale. Take Care of the Darkened Skin Be gentle with the affected area. Scrubbing harder will not remove acanthosis nigricans and may irritate your skin. The American Academy of Dermatology also advises checking with a dermatologist before using bleaching creams or exfoliating products, as these may irritate the skin and make the problem worse. For day-to-day care: Wash the area gently. Avoid harsh scrubs and rubbing. Do not use unverified bleaching remedies. Keep the skin moisturised. Ask a dermatologist about treatment if the patches remain or bother you. If the darkening appeared quickly, is spreading, or you are not sure what is causing it, please get it checked by a dermatologist. When Should You See a Doctor? If you have PCOS and notice early signs of dark patches on your skin, it is worth mentioning them to your doctor. This is more important when the skin becomes thicker, develops a velvety texture or the darkening continues to spread. Your doctor can assess the skin and decide whether blood sugar or other health checks are needed. If you are unsure whether the pigmentation is related to PCOS, a dermatologist can also examine the affected area and help identify the cause. Summary Seeing darker skin with PCOS can be worrying, but it does not mean that something is seriously wrong with your skin. The change may also be linked to insulin resistance and may appear as acanthosis nigricans around the neck, underarms or other skin folds. We suggest giving attention to both your PCOS and your skin. If the dark patches keep changing, spread to new areas or do not look like your usual skin, then you should contact your doctor immediately. If you are also looking for period-care support while managing PCOS, you can explore our PCOS Period Kit. References National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (n.d.). What are the symptoms of PCOS? National Institutes of Health. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pcos/conditioninfo/symptoms National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (n.d.). What causes PCOS? National Institutes of Health. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pcos/conditioninfo/causes American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Acanthosis nigricans: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/acanthosis-nigricans-overview Hermanns-Le, T., Scheen, A., & Piérard, G. E. (2004). Acanthosis nigricans associated with insulin resistance: Pathophysiology and management. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 5(3), 199–203. https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200405030-00008

Key Takeaways PCOS itself is not life-threatening. PCOS can increase some long-term health risks. Irregular periods should not be ignored. Healthy habits can support PCOS management. Regular health checks help you stay on track. If you have been diagnosed with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), one of the first questions that may come to your mind is, “Is PCOS life-threatening?” The condition can cause irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, weight changes and problems with ovulation, which can be worrying to deal with. But let us assure you that PCOS itself is not considered a life-threatening condition. It is linked with certain long-term health risks, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and problems affecting the uterine lining. Let us look at the symptoms, health risks and simple habits that can help you manage PCOS. Is PCOS Life-Threatening? No, PCOS itself is not considered a life-threatening condition. It needs proper attention because it can affect your menstrual, reproductive, and metabolic health. Women with PCOS have a higher risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems and changes in the uterine lining. [Source: NIH/NICHD PCOS overview] This does not mean that every woman with PCOS will develop these health problems. Your symptoms, weight, family history, lifestyle and other health factors all play a role. Regular health checks can help identify problems such as high blood sugar, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol early. PCOS can also affect ovulation and make it harder to become pregnant, but having PCOS does not mean you cannot have a healthy pregnancy. So, if you have PCOS, there is no need to live in fear. We suggest that you take the condition seriously, keep track of changes in your periods and symptoms, and follow the care suggested by your doctor. What Symptoms Can PCOS Cause? The symptoms vary from woman to woman and may change over time. A lot of women notice changes in their periods first. Others may need help because of acne, unwanted hair growth, weight changes or difficulty becoming pregnant. [Source: NIH/NICHD] Common Symptoms of PCOS You may have one or more of these PCOS symptoms: Irregular periods: Your periods may come late, become unpredictable or stop for several months. Heavy menstrual bleeding: Some women may experience unusually heavy periods. Excess facial or body hair: Increased hair growth may appear on the face, chest, abdomen or thighs. Acne and oily skin: Acne, particularly when it does not respond well to common treatments, can occur. Weight gain or difficulty losing weight: Some women may gain weight, particularly around the waist. Hair thinning: PCOS can cause thinning of the hair on the scalp. Difficulty becoming pregnant: Irregular ovulation can make conception more difficult. Dark, thickened skin: Some women develop dark, velvety patches of skin, which can be linked with insulin resistance. We suggest you do not ignore changes in your periods, persistent acne or sudden changes in hair growth. Only a doctor can understand whether they are related to PCOS or another condition. If you are looking for products designed to support your period-care needs while managing PCOS, you can also explore our PCOS Period Kit. What Health Risks Are Linked to PCOS? PCOS can affect more than your periods and fertility. Having PCOS does not mean you will develop all these conditions, but it does mean that you should pay attention to your health. PCOS and Type 2 Diabetes PCOS is linked with a higher risk of insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes. This risk can occur regardless of age or BMI. The 2023 international PCOS guideline recommends checking blood sugar levels when PCOS is diagnosed and repeating the assessment based on individual risk factors. PCOS and Heart Health Women with PCOS may have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and related risk factors such as high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol and impaired glucose control. The international guideline recommends checking cardiovascular risk factors, including blood pressure and lipid levels, regularly. Our advice is to keep track of your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar as recommended by your doctor. [Source: 2023 International PCOS Guideline] PCOS and the Uterine Lining Long gaps between periods can expose the uterine lining to hormonal changes that may cause it to become too thick. Women with PCOS have a higher risk of endometrial hyperplasia, and the risk of endometrial cancer is also higher. If your periods stop for long periods or become very irregular, we feel you should speak with your gynaecologist rather than simply waiting for your next cycle. Does PCOS Increase the Risk of Cancer PCOS is linked with a higher risk of endometrial cancer, which affects the lining of the uterus. Long gaps between periods can leave the uterine lining exposed to hormonal stimulation for longer periods, increasing the chance of abnormal thickening. Research and international PCOS guidelines recognise this increased risk, although the overall chance of developing endometrial cancer remains low. The connection between PCOS and other cancers is less clear. Current evidence has not established a definite increase in breast or ovarian cancer among women with PCOS. Some studies have reported possible associations, but the findings are inconsistent. We recommend that you do not assume PCOS will lead to cancer. Instead, pay attention to your menstrual cycle and discuss long gaps between periods with your gynaecologist. How Can You Reduce PCOS Health Risks? You cannot prevent every health problem linked to PCOS. You can take steps to lower your risks and keep track of your health. PCOS can affect blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, weight and menstrual health, so managing these areas should form part of your regular care. Our advice is to focus on habits that you can follow for a long time rather than making sudden, difficult changes. Here’s what we suggest Keep Your Blood Sugar and Cholesterol in Check Stay Physically Active or perform yoga for irregular periods Eat a Balanced Diet Do Not Ignore Irregular Periods Summary A PCOS diagnosis does not mean that you should expect serious health problems. What matters is how you respond to the condition and whether you stay aware of changes in your body. Getting recommended health checks and discussing concerns with your doctor can help you make informed choices. Start with habits that fit your daily life and give your health the attention it needs. With regular care, PCOS can be managed as part of a healthy life. References Teede, H. J., Tay, C. T., Laven, J. J. E., Dokras, A., Moran, L. J., Piltonen, T. T., Costello, M. F., Boivin, J., Redman, L. M., Boyle, J. A., Norman, R. J., Mousa, A., & Joham, A. E., on behalf of the International PCOS Network. (2023). Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 108(10), 2447–2469. DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad463 Teede, H. J., Tay, C. T., Laven, J. J. E., Dokras, A., Moran, L. J., Piltonen, T. T., Costello, M. F., Boivin, J., Redman, L. M., Boyle, J. A., Norman, R. J., Mousa, A., & Joham, A. E., on behalf of the International PCOS Network. (2023). International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome 2023. Monash University. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (n.d.). What are the symptoms of PCOS? Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health. Teede, H. J., Mousa, A., Tay, C. T., Costello, M. F., Brennan, L., Norman, R. J., Pena, A. S., Boyle, J. A., Joham, A., Berry, L., & Moran, L. (2024). Summary of the 2023 international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome: An Australian perspective. Medical Journal of Australia, 221(7), 389–395.

Key Takeaways PCOS affects periods, skin, hair, weight, and fertility Irregular or missed periods are one of the most common early signs Excess facial or body hair is caused by higher androgen levels Insulin resistance in PCOS can cause weight gain and dark skin patches PCOS can occur even without all the typical symptoms A proper medical evaluation is needed for a confirmed diagnosis Healthy diet, regular exercise, and period tracking help manage PCOS Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects women during their reproductive years. It can cause changes in periods, skin, hair and body weight. The early signs of PCOS can sometimes be difficult to identify. Irregular periods, excess facial hair, acne, hair thinning and unexplained weight changes are some common symptoms. Having one or more of these symptoms does not always mean that you have PCOS. A proper medical evaluation is needed for diagnosis. 7 Early Signs and Symptoms of PCOS The signs of PCOS may appear slowly and may not be noticed at first. The following are some common early signs and symptoms of PCOS. 1. Irregular or Missed Periods Irregular periods are one of the common signs of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Read about late periods and their possible causes to understand when a delay may need attention. Periods may come late, occur less often or be missed for several months. This can happen when ovulation does not occur regularly. Some women may also have very heavy periods when they do occur. 2. Excess Facial or Body Hair Women with PCOS may notice increased hair growth on the face, chin, upper lip, chest, stomach or other areas. This is called hirsutism. It can happen due to higher levels of androgen hormones in the body. 3. Acne and Oily Skin Hormonal changes in PCOS can increase oil production in the skin. This may lead to frequent acne. Pimples may appear on the face, chest, back or shoulders. Acne that continues even after the teenage years can sometimes be linked to hormonal changes. Read about how to stop period acne naturally for practical skincare tips during hormonal fluctuations. 4. Hair Thinning or Hair Loss PCOS can also affect hair growth on the scalp. Some women may notice thinning hair or increased hair fall. Read our detailed guide on PCOS hair loss symptoms and remedies for more information. The hair may become thinner around the front or top of the scalp. However, hair loss can have many causes, so it should not be considered a sign of PCOS on its own. 5. Sudden Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight Some women with PCOS may gain weight or find it difficult to lose weight. Weight gain may be more noticeable around the abdomen. Insulin resistance, which can occur with PCOS, may make weight management more difficult. However, PCOS can also occur in women who are not overweight. 6. Darkened Skin Patches Dark, thickened patches of skin may develop around the neck, underarms, groin or other skin folds. This condition is known as acanthosis nigricans. It can be associated with insulin resistance. These skin changes should be checked by a doctor, particularly when they appear along with other PCOS symptoms. 7. Difficulty Getting Pregnant PCOS can affect regular ovulation. As a result, some women may have difficulty becoming pregnant. Irregular ovulation is one of the common reasons PCOS can affect fertility. However, having PCOS does not mean that pregnancy is not possible. Can You Have PCOS Without All These Symptoms? Yes, you can have PCOS without having all the common symptoms. PCOS affects women differently. Some women may have only one or two noticeable signs. Other women with PCOS may also have regular periods. This is why the absence of irregular periods does not always rule out PCOS. How Is PCOS Managed? PCOS can be managed with healthy daily habits and proper medical care. The treatment depends on the symptoms and health needs of each woman. Eat balanced meals with vegetables, whole grains, and protein-rich foods. Explore our PCOD diet chart for specific food recommendations. Stay physically active with regular walking, exercise or other activities you enjoy. Maintain a healthy weight if your doctor recommends it. Take medicines prescribed by your doctor to manage specific symptoms. Keep track of your periods and other changes in your body. Have regular check-ups to monitor your symptoms and overall health. Treatment for PCOS varies from woman to woman. A doctor can suggest the right path for treatment based on your symptoms, menstrual cycle, weight, and blood sugar levels. If you experience irregular periods and want a more comfortable way to manage your menstrual days, you can also explore HealthFab’s PCOS period care kit, designed for period protection and everyday comfort. Final Thoughts PCOS can affect periods, skin, hair, weight and fertility in different ways. The symptoms may not be the same for every woman. PCOS can be managed with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and medical treatment where needed. It is always best to speak to a doctor for proper evaluation.  If you have experienced any of these symptoms, speak to a gynaecologist for a proper evaluation. References National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. What are the symptoms of PCOS? NICHD. Accessed 2025. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pcos/conditioninfo/symptoms Mayo Clinic Staff. Acanthosis nigricans: Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Accessed 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acanthosis-nigricans/symptoms-causes/syc-20368983