TLDR The long-pulsed alexandrite laser is safe and effective for hair reduction.
The study evaluated the safety and long-term efficacy of the long-pulsed alexandrite infrared laser for hair removal on 31 anatomic sites in 22 patients with Fitzpatrick skin types I–III. Results showed that hair reduction varied by anatomic location and pulse duration, with maximum reductions of 40% for the lip, 56% for the leg, 50% for the back, and 15% for the bikini area. A second treatment on the upper lip increased hair reduction from 40% to 54% at 6 months. The study concluded that the long-pulsed alexandrite laser is safe and effective for hair reduction, with no permanent adverse effects observed.
112 citations,
July 1998 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Ruby laser pulses best destroy hair follicles during the growth phase and effectiveness varies with laser intensity; melanin is key for targeting, and timing treatments can improve results.
67 citations,
October 1997 in “Dermatologic Surgery” The EpiLight Hair Removal System removed about 60% of hair with some side effects, and more research is needed to confirm long-term effectiveness.
91 citations,
July 1997 in “Dermatologic Clinics” Laser hair removal is an advanced and effective method for removing unwanted hair.
132 citations,
October 1995 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Electrolysis is effective for permanent hair removal, but technique is key to avoid scarring, and sometimes hormonal treatment is needed for women with hirsutism.
9 citations,
September 1947 in “Archives of dermatology and syphilology” Electrolysis is better for permanent hair removal with less scarring.
46 citations,
December 2000 in “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” Laser and light treatments offer quick, long-lasting hair removal for large areas.
