How To Work With Your PCOS, Not Against It

My PCOS Story: From Hair Loss to Hope

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)—if you’ve got it, you know it’s more than just a diagnosis; it’s an unwanted sidekick in life. It messes with your hormones, your skin, your weight, your mood, and worst of all (for me), your hair. The shedding, the thinning, the despair of clogged drains and hairbrushes full of strands—it’s a whole thing. I’ve been there, I’ve cried about it, and I’ve come out stronger on the other side. This is my story.

After being diagnosed with PCOS, my hair started shedding like it was auditioning for its own fall season. My once-thick, shiny strands turned brittle, sparse, and lifeless. Nothing worked—store-bought shampoos, random oils with questionable ingredients, or even salon treatments. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands. That’s when I created Paulina’s Organics Hair Oil, a simple, organic solution that changed everything for me.

But this isn’t just about hair. PCOS affects so much more, and I want this article to be your guide—a place to laugh, learn, and find solutions to work with your PCOS, not against it.

What Even Is PCOS?

Let’s break it down in plain terms. PCOS is like that friend who overcomplicates everything. It’s a hormonal disorder that affects how your ovaries work. Here’s the gist:

1. Irregular Periods: Your cycles become as unpredictable as your Wi-Fi during a storm.

2. Excess Androgens: These male hormones cause symptoms like acne, hair loss (hello, me), and unwanted hair growth in all the wrong places.

3. Polycystic Ovaries: Not everyone with PCOS has these, but they’re basically ovaries with tiny fluid-filled sacs that mess up ovulation.

4. Insulin Resistance: Your body struggles to use insulin properly, leading to weight gain and increased androgen levels.

PCOS symptoms are as unique as we are. Some women have all of them; others only a few. The key is understanding your body and tackling your struggles one step at a time.

The Hair Loss Struggle is Real (But Fixable!)

Hair loss from PCOS is mostly due to androgenic alopecia, caused by an overproduction of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone shrinks your hair follicles, making your hair thinner and weaker over time. Add to that inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and stress, and it’s a perfect storm for shedding.

Here’s how I fought back:

1. I Created a Scalp Routine: I ditched the sulfates, silicones, and synthetic chemicals. Instead, I used Paulina’s Organics Hair Oil, which includes powerhouse ingredients like:

   • Jojoba Oil: Mimics your scalp’s natural oils.

   • Rosemary Oil: Boosts circulation and promotes hair regrowth.

   • Castor Oil: Strengthens and thickens hair strands.

2. Scalp Massages: Using a silicone-bristled massager (bonus points if it’s bamboo-handled), I worked the oil into my scalp weekly. It’s relaxing, feels luxurious, and stimulates blood flow to hair follicles.

3. Healthy Diet: I upped my intake of:

   • Protein: Chicken, eggs, tofu—your hair is basically protein in strand form.

   • Iron: Spinach, lentils, and red meat.

   • Zinc & Biotin: Nuts and whole grains for follicle support.

The result? Hair that not only grew back but felt alive again.

Pro Tip: If you’re ready to start your journey, visit Paulina’s Organics for an organic solution tailored to nourish and revitalize your scalp.

Working WITH Your PCOS (Not Against It)

1. Embrace Your Unique Journey

PCOS looks different for everyone. You might be struggling with weight gain, acne, or mood swings. The trick is to stop fighting against your body and start supporting it. For example:

• If you’re insulin resistant, focus on low-glycemic foods that stabilize blood sugar (hello, berries and sweet potatoes).

• If acne is your nemesis, switch to gentle, non-toxic skincare.

2. Manage Stress Like a Queen

Stress increases cortisol levels, which worsens PCOS symptoms. Find your zen—whether that’s yoga, journaling, or watching cat videos on repeat. For me, creating my hair oil was therapeutic and gave me something positive to focus on.

3. Boost Your Nutritional Arsenal

PCOS can deplete certain vitamins and minerals. Make sure you’re getting enough:

• Vitamin D: Spend time in the sun (or take a supplement).

• Magnesium: Found in almonds and dark chocolate, it helps with inflammation and insulin resistance.

• Omega-3s: Fish oil or flaxseeds reduce inflammation and support hormone health.

4. Exercise, but Don’t Overdo It

PCOS bodies love strength training and moderate cardio. Overexercising can actually increase cortisol, so keep it balanced. Even daily walks can work wonders.

Laughter: The Best Medicine (Yes, Even for PCOS)

Living with PCOS can feel heavy, so let’s lighten the load:

• “PCOS gives you superpowers!” – Ok, not really, but wouldn’t it be cool?

• “I call my hormone imbalances ‘mood swings with flair.’”

• “DHT doesn’t stand for ‘Don’t Have Thickness,’ even if it feels like it sometimes!”

Find the humor where you can—it makes the journey a little easier.

Beyond Hair: Tackling Other PCOS Struggles

PCOS isn’t just about hair loss. Here are some tips for other common issues:

Acne & Oily Skin

• Cut back on dairy and sugar (they spike insulin levels).

• Use gentle, organic products that won’t strip your skin.

Irregular Periods & Fertility

• Try seed cycling (flax and pumpkin for the first half of your cycle, sesame and sunflower for the second).

• Look into herbal options like Vitex or Maca Root.

Weight Challenges

• Prioritize fiber and protein at every meal.

• Don’t underestimate the power of hydration—water is your BFF.

Let’s Navigate PCOS Together

PCOS isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition, but that’s what makes us stronger. When you understand your unique needs and embrace solutions tailored to YOU, everything changes. My hair oil journey is proof that simple, organic steps can lead to powerful transformations.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward healthier hair (and confidence), check out Paulina’s Organics Hair Oil. Together, we can work WITH our PCOS—not against it—and reclaim our power one strand at a time.

Remember, you’re not alone in this. Let’s grow—literally and figuratively—together!