Permanence of Hair Removal Depends on Laser Used

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Permanence of Hair Removal Depends on Laser Used
from the Houston Chronicle

Dear Paula: Can you help with some information about the use of laser for hair removal? I've heard so many claims about different machines. Do some offer more permanent removal than others? - Deena, Philadelphia, PA

Dear Deena: If you are confused about lasers, join the crowd. It is a confusing issue, with each dermatologist or plastic surgeon espousing his or her own preferences and experiences, usually based on the machines they own.

The main piece of information you need is that there are no laser machines approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal.

The other important fact you need to know is that darker skin tones are at risk of pigment loss or hyperpigmentation from all laser or light.

One more thing to think about: If you are considering a laser procedure of any kind, it is essential to wait until your tan has completely faded. (Of course, you should not be tanning, but that's another story.) When you are tanned, pigment in the skin may absorb the light and produce temporary lightening or darkening of the skin.

In terms of efficacy, according to an article in the May 1999 Cosmetics & Toiletries, based on one treatment, you can expect the following outcomes with the various machines for hair removal. Keep in mind that hair removal lasers can only effect hair in its growth stage, which is inconsistent for each hair follicle; it takes repeated treatments to see a longer-lasting effect.

SoftLight is a Yag Laser, and you can expect 75 percent hair regrowth at three months.
EpiLaser is a Ruby laser long-pulse, and you can expect 50 percent hair regrowth at six months.
EpiTouch is a Ruby laser dual mode, and you can expect 40 percent to 80 percent regrowth after three months.
EpiLight is a flash lamp, and you can expect 40 percent regrowth at three months.*

Comment by Dr. Borrell:

*This statement is rather misleading. The truth is, you can receive hair replacement of 90-95% if you have 3 treatments. This study was based on receiving only 1 treatment.

See the abstract by Dr. Borrell for more information.

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