An efficacy comparison of hair removal utilizing a diode laser and an Nd:YAG laser system in Chinese women

Abstract

Background: The 800 nm diode laser and the 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser have been used successfully for hair removal for many years. Objective: To compare the efficacy of a diode laser with a Nd:YAG laser regarding axillary fossa hair removal in Chinese women. Methods: Twenty-nine Chinese women underwent three treatment sessions at 4-week intervals with a diode laser (34–38 J/cm²) on one side and a Nd:YAG laser (34–40 J/cm²) on the other side. Assessments included the reduction of hair diameter following treatment, the regrowth rate in hair length, total hair reduction and the immediate pain associated with the treatments. Results: At follow-up visit number 1 (4 weeks after the first session), the average reduction in hair diameter on the diode laser side and the Nd:YAG laser side was 2.44 μm and –0.6 μm, respectively. The regrowth rates of the hair were 61.93 μm/day and 59.84 μm/day, respectively, which were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). At follow-up visit number 1, hair reduction was 60.09% and 41.44%, respectively. At follow-up visit number 2 (4 weeks after the second session), hair reduction was noted to be 78.56% and 64.50%, respectively, which were both statistically significant (p < 0.05). Immediate pain scores at the first session were 6.97 and 6.17, respectively; at the second session were 5.48 and 6.69, respectively; and at the third session were 5.76 and 7.45, respectively; all statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The diode laser showed more efficacy and was found to be more comfortable than the Nd:YAG laser for axillary fossa hair removal in Chinese women.     

Histological hair removal study by ruby or alexandrite laser with comparative study on the effects of wavelength and fluence

BACKGROUND: Several different laser systems are currently used to remove unwanted hairs. In this study, we studied follicular changes following hair removal with ruby or alexandrite lasers at different fluences.

METHODS: Unwanted hairs were treated with a ruby laser (Chromos 694, ICN PhotonIcs, UK) at 10, 14 or 18?J/cm² or with an alexandrite laser (LPIR, Cynosure, USA) at 11, 14 or 17?J/cm². A 3?mm skin punch biopsy was taken immediately after each laser exposure and also 1 month later. Specimens were stained for histological observation. They were observed using immunohistochemistry with antibodies recognizing factor VIII related antigen or PCNA, and also by the TUNEL method. Similarly, electron microscopic observation was examined.

RESULTS: Immediately after the laser exposure, moderate follicular damage was observed following treatment with either type of laser. One month later, cystic formation of hair follicles and foreign body giant cells were observed in skin treated with either type of laser. A similar fluence with either laser treatment resulted in similar histological changes.

CONCLUSION: In this study, the histological changes following treatment with a ruby or an alexandrite laser at the same fluence are similar.     

Safety and efficacy of low fluence,high repetition rate versus high fluence,low repetition rate 810-nm diode laser for axillary hair removal in Chinese women

Background: High-fluence diode lasers with contact cooling have emerged as the gold standard to remove unwanted hair. Lowering the energy should result in less pain and could theoretically affect the efficacy of the therapy. Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy of a low fluence high repetition rate 810-nm diode laser to those of a high fluence, low repetition rate diode laser for permanent axillary hair removal in Chinese women. Methods: Ninety-two Chinese women received four axillae laser hair removal treatments at 4-week intervals using the low fluence, high repetition rate 810-nm diode laser in super hair removal (SHR) mode on one side and the high fluence, low repetition rate diode laser in hair removal (HR) mode on the other side. Hair counts were done at each follow-up visit and 6-month follow-up after the final laser treatment using a “Hi Quality Hair Analysis Program System”; the immediate pain score after each treatment session was recorded by a visual analog scale. Results: The overall median reduction of hair was 90.2% with the 810-nm diode laser in SHR mode and 87% with the same laser in HR mode at 6-month follow-up. The median pain scores in SHR mode and in HR mode were 2.75 and 6.75, respectively. Conclusion: Low fluence, high repetition rate diode laser can efficiently remove unwanted hair but also significantly improve tolerability and reduce adverse events during the course of treatment.     

Novel 755-nm diode laser vs. conventional 755-nm scanned alexandrite laser: Side-by-side comparison pilot study for thorax and axillary hair removal

Background: Alexandrite (755 nm) and diode lasers (800–810 nm) are commonly used for hair removal. The alexandrite laser technology is somewhat cumbersome whereas new diode lasers are more robust. Recently, alexandrite-like 755 nm wavelength diodes became available. Objectives: To compare the efficacy, tolerability, and subject satisfaction of a 755 nm diode laser operated in conventional (HR) and non-conventional in-motion (SHR) modes with a conventional scanned alexandrite 755 nm laser for chest and axillary hair removal. Materials and methods: A prospective, single-center, proof of principle study was designed to evaluate the safety, efficacy and handling of a 755 nm diode laser system in comparison to a standard alexandrite 755 nm scanning hair removal laser. Results: The new 755 nm diode is suitable to be used in SHR and HR mode and has been tested for its safety, efficacy and handling in a volunteer with success. Overall, both systems showed a high efficacy in hair reduction (88.8% 755 nm diode laser vs. 77.7% 755 nm alexandrite laser). Also, during the study period, no severe adverse effects were reported. Conclusion: The new 755 nm diode laser is as effective and safe as the traditional 755 nm alexandrite laser. Additionally, treatment with the 755 nm diode laser with HR and SHR modes was found to be less painful.     

Effect of hair removal by Nd:YAG laser on the recurrence of pilonidal sinus

Background  Pilonidal sinus (PNS) is chronic inflammatory process of the skin in the natal cleft. Management of PNS is mainly surgical. Although different types of surgery have been performed, the recurrence rate is still high.
Objective  To evaluate the effectiveness of laser hair removal (LHR) in the natal cleft area on the recurrence rate of PNS as an adjuvant therapy after surgical treatment.
Methods  Twenty five patients with PNS were included in this study. Fifteen patients underwent LHR treatment using Nd:YAG laser after surgical excision of PNS (Patients group) while ten subjects with PNS did not do LHR and served as a control group.
Results  All of the patients were male patients. Their age ranged from 17 to 29 years with a mean of 21.60 ± 3.13 years. They had Fitzpatrick skin type III, IV and V. The patients have got 3 to 8 sessions of LHR (mean 4.87 ± 1.64). Follow up period lasted between 12 to 23 months. None of the patients, who underwent LHR, has required further surgical treatment to date. Seven patients out of ten in the control group have developed recurrent PNS. Pain was the most frequent side effect and it was seen in 6 patients (40%).
Conclusion  LHR can prevent the recurrence of PNS. LHR should be advised as an essential adjuvant treatment after surgical excision of PNS. In non-complicated recurrent PNS, LHR is strongly advocated to be started before and continued after doing surgical treatment.     

长脉冲半导体激光脱毛的长期疗效和安全性评价

目的 评价长脉冲半导体激光对于Ⅲ－Ⅴ型皮肤多毛患者脱毛的长期疗效和安全性。方法 用长脉宽半导体激光（波长800 nm，脉宽30 ms，光斑大小9 mm × 9 mm）对350例多毛患者进行多次治疗。治疗结束后22.5个月，回顾性分析了脱毛的疗效和不良反应，每个部位根据治疗次数分2组： < 6次组和≥6次组（腋窝分为 ＜ 4次组和≥4次组），比较不同部位这2组脱毛的疗效。结果 随访到并进行评价的多毛患者235例共375处部位。经2 ~ 18次脱毛治疗后，有效302处，总有效率为80.53%。不同部位2个治疗次数组疗效有一定差异，唇部≥6次组治疗部位38处，有效33处，有效率86.84%， ＜ 6次组治疗部位20处，有效7处，有效率35.00%；面颈（唇以外）≥6次组治疗部位38处，有效26处，有效率68.42%， ＜ 6次组治疗部位13处，有效4处，有效率30.77%；下肢≥6次组治疗部位50处，有效46处，有效率92.00%， ＜ 6次组治疗部位9处，有效5处；躯干≥6次组治疗部位23处，有效20处，有效率86.96%， ＜ 6次组治疗部位8处，有效4处；以上各部位≥6次组疗效均优于 ＜ 6次组（P < 0.05）。腋窝≥4次组治疗部位97处，有效91处，有效率93.81%， ＜ 4次组治疗部位9处，有效5处，两组疗效比较，P < 0.01。上肢部两组疗效比较，差异无统计学意义（P ＞ 0.05）。235例患者中有6例出现不良反应，包括色素沉着、毛囊性丘疹、瘙痒、水疱、白色毛发，未见色素减退及瘢痕形成。结论 长脉冲半导体激光对Ⅲ－Ⅴ型皮肤多毛患者脱毛安全有效。疗效与脱毛部位、治疗次数相关。     

Effects of the 810-nm diode laser on hair and on the biophysical properties of skin

Abstract

Introduction: Laser therapy is clinically effective in hair removal; however, despite the development of various strategies, laser procedures still present a risk of adverse effects due to the overheating of the skin. Objective: To investigate the effects of 810-nm diode laser treatment on hair and on the biophysical properties of skin by using various non-invasive techniques on various parameters, including hair analysis, surface color changes, integrity of skin barrier, sebum production rate and pH level. Methods: In this randomized, right–left comparison study, 35 women with axillary hair received single-session diode laser therapy. Hair analysis and biophysical properties of the skin were assessed before treatment and at weeks 2, 4 and 6 after the therapy. Results: Hair density and thicknesses statistically significantly decreased after the first post-treatment evaluation. Regarding comparison of the biophysical properties of the skin, there was no statistically significant difference in the assessments, except for the increase determined during the second week in the erythema index in the laser-treated areas. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that the diode laser can perform a significant reduction in the hair amount without significant epidermal damage, at least for a short period.     

A 12-month follow-up of hypopigmentation after laser hair removal

Abstract

Introduction: Laser hair removal is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional methods such as shaving, waxing, among other methods. Semiconductor diode lasers are considered the most efficient light sources available and are especially well suited for clinical applications including hair reduction. The effectiveness of laser hair reduction depends on many variables, including the skin type of the patient. Material and Methods: A patient with Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV was submitted to laser hair removal of the arms with a high-power diode laser system with long pulses with a wavelength of 800 nm, a fluence of 40 J/cm² and a pulse width of 20 ms. A 12-month follow-up assessment was performed and included photography and questionnaire. Results: Hypopigmentation was observed after a single laser hair removal section. After 6 months with the area totally covered, a gradual suntan with a sun screen lotion with an SPF of 15 was prescribed by the dermatologist. After 12 months of the initial treatment, a complete recovery of the hypopigmentation was achieved. Conclusion: Although a safe procedure, lasers for hair removal may be associated with adverse side effects including undesired pigment alterations. Before starting a laser hair removal treatment, patients seeking the eradication of hair should be informed that temporary, and possibly permanent, pigmentary changes may occur.     

Effect of piroxicam gel for pain control and inflammation in Nd:YAG 1064-nm laser hair removal

Background Laser‐assisted hair removal is a variably uncomfortable and painful procedure. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of piroxicam gel on pain control and subsequent inflammation in Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser hair removal in women volunteers. Methods Fifty women volunteers were enrolled in this prospective, randomised, placebo‐controlled study over a 6‐month period. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive piroxicam gel as Group P or saline as a control group. Topical analgesic and saline were applied to the treatment sites for 45 minutes. The pain scores (VAS) and side effects were recorded before the hair removal, during the hair removal, at the end of the hair removal, and after 1 hour, 2 hours and 24 hours after the hair removal. Results Subject characteristics and treatment settings in Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser were similar in both groups. The pain scores (VAS) were significantly lower in the Group P than those of the control group during the hair removal (p < 0.001). Inflammatory side effects such as erythema, edema, and folliculitis, were more frequent in the control group than those of Group P during the procedure (p < 0.001). Conclusion This study showed that piroxicam gel provided adequate pain relief after Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser hair removal in women volunteers. Piroxicam gel was associated with lesser inflammatory side effects when compared to placebo because of its anti‐inflammatory effect after the procedure.     

A review of hair removal modalities in pediatric patients: Ethical and clinical considerations

Unwanted hair is a common concern among patients presenting to pediatric dermatology clinics, and parents and patients alike inquire about the safety of methods employed for elective removal. Various methods of hair removal exist with different levels of invasiveness and permanence, from simple mechanical depilation to light-based therapies. All methods of hair removal appear to be safe and generally well tolerated in children, and there are no age restrictions to any modality. In this review, we aim to address the available literature on the safety and efficacy of hair removal modalities in pediatric patients and propose guidance on how to manage requests for at-home and in-office therapies within an ethical framework.     

Laser-assisted hair removal for facial hirsutism in women: A review of evidence

Poly cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has been described as the common diagnosis for hirsutism in women. Facial hirsutism is by far the most distressing symptom of hyperandrogenism in women with PCOS. A statistically significant improvement in psychological well-being has been reported in patients with PCOS allocated for laser-assisted hair removal. The theory of selective photothermolysis has revolutionized laser hair removal in that it is effective and safe, when operated by sufficiently trained and experienced professionals. Long-pulsed ruby (694 nm), long-pulsed alexandrite (755 nm), diode (800–980 nm), and long-pulsed Nd:YAG (1064 nm) are commercially available laser devices for hair removal most widely studied. This article will introduce the fundamentals and mechanism of action of lasers in hair removal, in a contemporary literature review looking at medium to long term efficacy and safety profiles of various laser hair removal modalities most widely commercially available to date.     

GentleYAG 1064nm激光与强脉冲光脱毛的疗效与安全性比较

目的比较GentleYAG激光脱毛与强脉冲光脱毛的疗效与安全性。方法应用GentleYAG激光与强脉冲光进行脱毛治疗,治疗后分析脱毛效果及不良反应。结果GentleYAG激光脱毛治疗在唇部、发际(有效率均为95.00%)疗效优于强脉冲光(有效率分别为70.00%,65.00%)脱毛治疗,差异有显著性;两种脱毛治疗方法在腋部、四肢(有效率分别为95.00%和90.00%,95.00%和95.00%)部位疗效相当,差异无显著性;GentleYAG激光脱毛治疗后不良反应低于强脉冲光,两者差异有显著性。结论GentleYAG激光脱毛效果在唇部、发际疗效优于强脉冲光,两种脱毛方法在腋部、四肢疗效相当,GentleYAG激光脱毛比强脉冲光脱毛的不良反应更少。     

Hair removal in hirsute women with normal testosterone levels: a randomized controlled trial of long‐pulsed diode laser vs. intense pulsed light

Background Hirsutism is a common disorder in women of reproductive age, and androgen disturbances may aggravate the condition. Limited evidence exists regarding efficacy of hair removal in this specific population and no data are available for patients with verified normal testosterone levels. Objectives To compare efficacy and safety of intense pulsed light (IPL) vs. long‐pulsed diode laser (LPDL) in a well‐defined group of hirsute women with normal testosterone levels. Methods Thirty‐one hirsute women received six allocated split‐face treatments with IPL (525–1200 nm; Palomar Starlux IPL system) and LPDL (810 nm; Asclepion MeDioStar XT diode laser). Testosterone levels were measured three times during the study period. Patients with intrinsically normal or medically normalized testosterone levels throughout the study were included in efficacy assessments (n = 23). Endpoints were reduction in hair counts assessed by blinded photoevaluations at baseline and 1, 3 and 6 months after final treatment, patient‐evaluated reduction in hairiness, patient satisfaction, treatment‐related pain and adverse effects. Results IPL and LPDL reduced hair counts significantly, with median reductions from baseline of 77%, 53% and 40% for IPL and 68%, 60% and 34% for LDPL at 1, 3 and 6 months, respectively. At 6 months follow‐up, there was no significant difference between treatments in terms of hair reduction (P = 0·427), patient assessment of hairiness (P = 0·250) and patient satisfaction (P = 0·125). Pain scores were consistently higher for IPL [median 6, interquartile range (IQR) 4–7] than LPDL (median 3, IQR 2–5) (P < 0·001). Conclusion Hirsute women with normal or medically normalized testosterone levels responded equally well to IPL and LPDL treatments of facial hairiness, but the efficacy declined over 6 months.     

Patient compliance as a major determinant of laser tattoo removal success rates: A 10-year retrospective study

Abstract

The use and success of high-energy, short-pulse, Q-switched lasers for tattoo removal has been well demonstrated. Three types of lasers are currently commercially available for tattoo removal: the Q-switched ruby laser (694 nm), the Q-switched alexandrite laser (755 nm) and the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (532 nm and 1064 nm). Multiple parameters such as tattoo type, color, location, and patient skin type dictate which laser is optimal in each patient. Despite the demonstrated efficacy of these modalities, there are few papers that address some of the long-term issues of tattoo removal, such as patient compliance, and how these issues impact on the success rates of optimal tattoo removal treatments. In this retrospective study, 10-year data from a single center are presented. Our data include parameters such as clearance rates, number of treatments, wavelength of the utilized laser, and fluence and spot-size setting. In addition, potential complications such as scarring, hypopigmentation, and pain were analyzed. Finally, we examine the patient compliance that accompanied tattoo removal and the reasons behind the typically low success rates for total tattoo clearance.