Laser hair removal

Facial Plast Surg. 2004 Feb;20(1):85-9. doi: 10.1055/s-2004-822964.

Abstract

Laser hair removal is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that is well suited to the office-based practice. A great deal of improvement has occurred in the past 5 years with the technology and the understanding of how and for whom the procedure works. A review of the physics of laser-skin interactions is included as well as guidelines for safe and effective clinical treatments. Four wavelengths of lasers and intense light sources have proven successful for a variety of skin types. Average rates of long-term hair reduction, for properly treated subjects, are consistently reported between 70 and 90% at a minimum of 6 months. When performed by physician extenders under the supervision of a physician, maximal use of time and resources can be achieved.

MeSH terms

  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hair Color
  • Hair Follicle / pathology
  • Hair Removal / methods*
  • Humans
  • Laser Coagulation / instrumentation
  • Laser Coagulation / methods*
  • Lasers / classification
  • Patient Selection
  • Skin Pigmentation
  • Treatment Outcome