Topical Suspension‐assisted Q‐switched Nd:YAG Laser Hair Removal

• Published in: Dermatologic surgery Vol. 23; no. 9; pp. 741 - 745
• Main Authors: GOLDBERG, DAVID J., LITTLER, CURT M., WHEELAND, RONALD G.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01-09-1997; Blackwell
• Subjects: Administration, Topical; Adult; Aged; Biological and medical sciences; Carbon - administration & dosage; Dermatology; Hair and nails disorders; Hair Removal - instrumentation; Hair Removal - methods; Humans; Laser Therapy; Medical sciences; Middle Aged; Mineral Oil - administration & dosage; Suspensions; Hair; Skin disease; Association; Exeresis; Neodymium; Treatment efficiency; YAG laser; Hypertrichosis; Carbon; Q switched laser; Solution; Topical administration
• ISSN: 1076-0512; 1524-4725
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.1997.tb00407.x

background Many individuals seek to decrease facial and body hair density. Although a variety of epilating methods are available, improved techniques would be of interest to patients and physicians alike.
objective To determine the safety and clinical efficacy of a new laser‐based method of hair removal.
methods A Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser was used to scan skin with increased hair after applying a topical carbon‐based solution. Thirty‐five healthy, adult volunteers were treated with a single treatment to selected facial, neck, and axillary sites.
results Twelve weeks after a single treatment, integrated site scores revealed that the majority of patients had over 25% fewer hairs. The 12‐week mean percentage of hair reduction, based on anatomic sites, ranged up to 66% and 44% as judged by physicians and subjects, respectively. Adverse events were minimal and temporary.
conclusion Topical suspension‐assisted Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser therapy reduces hair density after a single treatment. Advantages include its speed, technical ease, and minimal adverse effects.