Living with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be challenging for many women, as it can come with a host of unwanted symptoms. One of the most common symptoms that women with PCOS experience is unwanted body hair, also known as hirsutism. This excess hair growth can be frustrating and embarrassing for many women, making them feel self-conscious and insecure in their own skin.
Thankfully, there are treatments available that can help manage and reduce unwanted body hair for women with PCOS. One such treatment is laser hair removal (LHR), a popular option for those looking to permanently remove unwanted hair. However, many women wonder if their health insurance will cover the cost of LHR for PCOS.
For those with Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, coverage for LHR can vary depending on the specific policy and the reasons for seeking treatment. In some cases, if LHR is deemed medically necessary to treat PCOS-related hirsutism, it may be covered by insurance. It is important to check with your doctor and your insurance provider to understand what is covered under your specific plan.
In addition to treating hirsutism caused by PCOS, some women may also be interested in laser hair removal for ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs can be a painful and uncomfortable side effect of shaving or waxing, and LHR can help prevent them from occurring. Again, coverage for LHR for ingrown hairs will depend on your insurance policy and the specific circumstances surrounding your treatment.
Ultimately, whether or not your insurance will cover laser hair removal for PCOS or ingrown hairs will depend on your individual policy and the medical necessity of the treatment. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider and insurance company to determine what is covered under your plan and what options are available to you.
In conclusion, for women with PCOS who are struggling with unwanted body hair, laser hair removal may be a viable and effective treatment option. While coverage for LHR under Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance may vary, it is worth exploring with your healthcare provider to see if this treatment is a possibility for you. By taking the time to understand your insurance coverage and treatment options, you can make an informed decision about how to best address your unwanted hair concerns.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment
As part of a multi-year endowment from PCOS Diva, the nonprofit organization PCOS Challenge, Inc. will be offering grants of up to $500 to help women and girls struggling with hair and skin issues related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). The PCOS Diva/PCOS Challenge Confidence Grant assists with the costs associated with dermatology treatments, laser hair removal or electrolysis.
PCOS is a genetic, hormonal, metabolic and reproductive disorder that affects 10 percent of women. In addition to carrying higher risks for infertility, diabetes, cardiovascular disease endometrial cancer and other serious conditions, PCOS often has devastating effects on women’s and girls’ quality of life and self-esteem due to symptoms including excess facial and body hair growth, acne, hair loss, anxiety and depression.
“PCOS Diva’s mission is to empower women with PCOS to reclaim their fertility, femininity, health and happiness. One of the most difficult PCOS symptoms many women experience is hirsutism or unwanted, male-pattern hair growth in women. I personally have struggled with this symptom, and laser hair removal was a lifesaver for me. It helped me regain my confidence and self-esteem. Because hair removal and other hair and skin treatments can be cost-prohibitive, I am thrilled to be able to help women who may not be able to afford the expense to reclaim their femininity through the Confidence Grant,” says Amy Medling, Founder of PCOS Diva.
“We are proud to partner with PCOS Diva to offer the Confidence Grant,” says Sasha Ottey, Executive Director of PCOS Challenge, Inc. “It is a significant step forward in addressing a neglected area of PCOS and women’s health that we hope others will follow and support. Unfortunately, many healthcare, insurance and granting organizations, as well as others who are in a position to help, are unaware of the pervasiveness, severity and impact of the problem. PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder in women and too often the serious hair and skin issues of women with PCOS are being dismissed as merely cosmetic, instead of being treated as medical problems. As such, the calls for help by millions of girls and women affected by PCOS are largely going ignored by major institutions and necessary treatments such as electrolysis and laser hair removal are not being covered by insurance, making them difficult to afford. The hair and skin issues that many girls and women with PCOS face can be scarring to their social development, and contribute to some dropping out of school, leaving their careers and withdrawing from society. More needs to be done, and we are happy that with the assistance of PCOS Diva, we are able to help address this major gap in healthcare.”
Grant Details
Applications for the PCOS Diva/PCOS Challenge Confidence Grant will be reviewed and selected twice per year – once in the spring and once in the fall. For more information about the PCOS Diva/PCOS Challenge Confidence Grant, deadlines, how to apply or make a contribution.
About PCOS Diva
PCOS Diva’s mission is one of hope and transformation. The resources, guidance, and support offered through PCOSDiva.com have helped thousands of women take control of their PCOS and live their lives to the fullest while healing their bodies, minds and spirits. PCOS Diva offers all the tools you need to take control and thrive, from daily inspirations, to supplements, menus, online programs and the support of a community that understands.
About PCOS Challenge
PCOS Challenge, Inc. is the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit support organization advancing the cause for women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, serving nearly 35,000 members. The organization touches the lives of women with PCOS and their supporters each year through television and radio programming, online and offline support groups, and education and awareness initiatives. Since PCOS Challenge began its programs in 2009, the organization has helped many women find answers that have helped them overcome their struggles with infertility, weight gain, hirsutism, anxiety and depression and reduce their risk for numerous life-threatening related diseases.
How to get laser hair removal covered by insurance? Most insurances only cover medically necessary procedures and treatments, so if your hair problem is getting out of hand, then your insurance might cover your hair removal expenses. Are you tired of shaving, threading, tweezing, or waxing your hair out? Then you might want to get a laser hair removal treatment.
They say no pain no gain when it comes to achieving beauty but there is more than one way to achieve what you want.
Thanks to the continued innovation of technology, a harmless and painless hair removal method have been invented, and that is with the help of lasers. But do you have any idea how the process works? This article will talk about laser removal hair treatments and how to get them covered by your insurance.
A laser hair removal is a hair reduction method that utilizes the laser to target the hair follicle and hinders its ability to grow. When the follicle absorbs the light from the laser, it is damaged and limits its ability to grow. Although in this process, the skin is not harmed. You may have to come back for more sessions to ensure long-lasting hairless skin. The treatment may be performed on many areas, including the legs, face, arms, even on the chest and bikini areas.
Benefits Of Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Everything has its benefits, and I know you want to experience that. So let’s all see what laser hair removal treatment has stored for us. Some of the said benefits include:
#1. Precise hair removal
Since lasers are used in the method, these lights will mostly fix the follicles as long the light touches them. In addition, the laser targets the course black hairs, which makes it more accurate and precise.
#2. Fast
Laser Hair Removal is a quick way to remove unwanted hairs and pulses that takes only a millisecond to treat several hairs all at once. So to estimate it all, a session of laser hair removal treatment will only last for a couple of minutes.
#3. Lighter hair growth and color
After the hair follicle has been damaged, the new hair that will spring out tends to be lighter and denser than the initial hair before the treatment. The new hair will be a few shades darker than the latter.
#4. Efficient and long-lasting
You may have to come back for a few more sessions, but others who have undergone the treatment see long-term results after constantly returning for treatment sessions.
Disadvantages Of Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Before you jump right into the process, you might want to consider the following risks or disadvantages that come with the laser hair removal treatment. Unfortunately, it is not always cupcakes and rainbows since beauty has its exchange.
#1. Not suitable for all skin shades
The laser treatment is only suitable for skins that have a lighter shade since the laser targets dark-colored hairs. Therefore the laser might target dark skin pigments, which could damage the skin.
#2. Photosensitivity
A laser could increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, mostly referred to as photosensitivity. Therefore, direct exposure to sunlight should be avoided within 6 weeks after the treatment to avoid discoloration.
Costs Of Laser Hair Removal Treatment
If you plan to get a laser hair removal treatment, you should at least be prepared to have a thousand dollars since a session could cost you 200- 400 dollars each session. It will also require you for yearly maintenance, so you will need a lot to sum it up.
Ways To Get Laser Hair Removal Covered By Insurance
If you don’t want to pay a large sum, you can opt to get it covered by your insurance, but how to get laser hair removal covered by insurance? The hair removal treatment may be covered either partially or fully provided the following conditions are met.
#1. Folliculitis
Laser hair removal treatment is considered a cosmetic surgery rather than a medical necessity by most insurance companies. However, there are some exceptions to that rule. For example, folliculitis is an infection that develops within the hair follicles. Since the follicles are being destroyed or damaged by the treatment, the risk of infection is reduced, which makes the treatment a medical necessity.
#2. Cushing’s syndrome
Another condition is Cushing’s syndrome. The body is exposed to high levels of hormones resulting in a corticosteroid or glucocorticoid medicine intake. The syndrome includes symptoms like bruises in fragile skin, bone loss, and extra hair growth.
#3. Polycystic ovarian syndrome
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or also known as PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects the reproductive processes of the woman’s reproductive system. It can be associated with irregular periods and increased excretions of the skin.
Are You Eligible For the Insurance Cover?
To ensure a laser hair reduction treatment to be covered by your insurance, review and re-read your insurance policy or contact your insurance care provider. One most valid reason for eligibility is if you suffer from medical problems associated with hair growth.
Conclusion
So if you are wondering how to get laser hair removal covered by insurance, you should consult with your insurance provider and your agreed policies to be sure. So before you go ahead and open the gates of the hairless skin after the treatment, make sure that you have already read through and completely understand.
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Laser Hair Removal
People with PCOS who opt for electrolysis can enjoy the benefits of a permanent hair removal method. This is a safe procedure, though it may be unpleasant.A person may require multiple sessions of varying durations. Usually, insurance won’t pay for this out of pocket.
People with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) often experience unwanted hair growth, known as hirsutism. This can be distressing for many individuals and may have a negative impact on their self-esteem. One popular method for addressing this issue is electrolysis, a permanent hair removal procedure that can provide long-lasting results.
Electrolysis is considered a safe procedure, although it can be uncomfortable for some patients. During electrolysis, a thin probe is inserted into the hair follicle and an electric current is applied to destroy the follicle and prevent future growth. The process can be time-consuming, as each hair follicle must be treated individually. This means that multiple sessions may be required, depending on the size of the area being treated.
While electrolysis can be an effective solution for those with PCOS, it is important to note that insurance typically does not cover the cost of this procedure. This means that individuals will need to budget for the expense of electrolysis out of pocket. However, many find that the long-term benefits of permanent hair removal outweigh the cost.
In summary, individuals with PCOS who opt for electrolysis can enjoy the benefits of a permanent hair removal method. While the procedure may be uncomfortable and require multiple sessions, the results can be long-lasting. Although insurance may not cover the cost of electrolysis, many find that the investment is worth it for improved confidence and self-esteem.
Will Insurance Cover Laser Hair Removal For Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs can be a source of discomfort and frustration for many individuals. These hairs occur when hair curls back or grows sideways into the skin instead of straight up out of the hair follicle. This can lead to red bumps, itching, and even infection. However, laser hair removal offers a solution to this common problem.Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigments in the hair follicles, damaging them and inhibiting future hair growth. This process not only reduces the appearance of hair but can also prevent hair from growing inward and causing ingrown hairs.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal for Ingrown Hairs
While laser hair removal is commonly used for cosmetic reasons, such as reducing unwanted hair on the face, legs, or bikini area, it can also provide relief for those suffering from ingrown hairs. Here are some of the benefits of laser hair removal for ingrown hairs:
Prevention: By removing hair at the root, laser hair removal can prevent new hair from growing inward and causing ingrown hairs.
Reduction of existing ingrown hairs: Even if you already have ingrown hairs, laser hair removal can help reduce their appearance and prevent new ones from forming.
Long-term results: With multiple sessions of laser hair removal, many individuals experience permanent hair reduction in the treated areas, further reducing the risk of ingrown hairs.
Improved skin texture: In addition to eliminating ingrown hairs, laser hair removal can also improve the texture and appearance of the skin in the treated areas.
How Laser Hair Removal Works for Ingrown Hairs
During a laser hair removal session, a specialized laser targets the pigment in the hair follicles. The heat from the laser damages the follicles, inhibiting future hair growth. Over time, with multiple sessions, the hair in the treated area becomes thinner and lighter until it eventually stops growing altogether.For individuals with ingrown hairs, this process can be particularly beneficial. By preventing new hair from growing inward, laser hair removal can help eliminate existing ingrown hairs and reduce the risk of developing new ones.
Session Number
Results
1
Reduction in hair thickness
3
Reduction in ingrown hairs
6
Permanent hair reduction
Overall, laser hair removal offers a long-term solution for individuals dealing with ingrown hairs. By targeting the root of the problem – the hair follicles – laser hair removal can not only reduce the discomfort caused by ingrown hairs but eliminate them entirely, providing smooth, hair-free skin in the treated areas.
