Comparative evaluation of long-pulse alexandrite and long-pulse Nd:YAG laser systems used individually and in combination for axillary hair removal

Dermatol Surg. 2008 May;34(5):665-70; discussion 670-1. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2007.34125.x. Epub 2008 Feb 6.

Abstract

Background: The 755-nm alexandrite and the 1,064-nm Nd:YAG lasers are both utilized for hair removal. Advances in laser technology have led to the development of dual-wavelength treatment for increased efficacy.

Objective: The objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combining 755- and 1,064-nm wavelengths for axillary hair removal.

Methods: Twenty patients received three treatments at 4- to 6-week intervals in four axillary quadrants. The left upper axilla was treated with the alexandrite laser, the left lower axilla with the Nd:YAG laser, the right upper axilla with combination alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser, and the right lower quadrant with the diode laser. At 1- and 2-month follow-up visits, subjects completed questionnaires and were assessed for percentage of hair reduction.

Results: Eighteen subjects completed the study. The greatest reduction was seen with the alexandrite laser at 70.3% and combination of alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser at 67.1%. The diode laser was less efficacious at 59.7% and the Nd:YAG laser had the least improvement with 47.4% reduction. Subjects found the alexandrite and diode lasers to be the most tolerable and the Nd:YAG and combination treatment to be the most painful.

Conclusion: Combination treatment of alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers provides no added benefit over the alexandrite laser alone.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Axilla*
  • Female
  • Hair Removal / methods*
  • Humans
  • Lasers, Solid-State / therapeutic use*
  • Low-Level Light Therapy* / instrumentation