TLDR The normal-mode ruby laser effectively reduces facial hair for a long time with few side effects.
The study involved 51 patients with facial hirsutism treated using the normal-mode ruby laser. One site on each patient was treated once, and another site was treated 4 times at 4-week intervals. After 48 weeks, 46 patients were assessed. A single treatment reduced hair counts to 45% at 4 weeks, 80% at 12 weeks, 65% at 24 weeks, and 59% at 48 weeks. Multiple treatments reduced hair counts to 30% after 3 treatments and 39% after 4 treatments at 36 weeks. No anesthesia was needed, and treatment tolerance improved over time. Side effects included hyperpigmentation in 9 patients (faded in 8) and hypopigmentation in 1 patient. Skin depressions developed in 5 patients but resolved within 4 to 32 weeks. The study concluded that the normal-mode ruby laser was well tolerated and effective for treating facial hirsutism, with repeated treatments yielding better results.
52 citations,
June 1998 in “British journal of dermatology/British journal of dermatology, Supplement” Ruby laser treatment is effective and well-tolerated for reducing hair growth.
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.
34 citations,
January 1995 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”
25 citations,
October 2012 in “Dermatologic clinics” Laser and light treatments can effectively remove hair long-term.
32 citations,
January 2010 in “Dermatology” Combining laser hair removal with topical eflornithine is recommended for better results in treating unwanted facial hair.
10 citations,
May 2015 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology” New treatments for skin and hair disorders in women of color address unique biological differences and include specific acne medications, sunscreens, skin lighteners, and hair care adjustments.
19 citations,
January 2007 in “Dermatology” Unwanted facial hair significantly impacts over 40% of women's psychological and social well-being, and various treatment options are available.
76 citations,
January 2007 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Women with PCOS often have skin problems like excessive hair, acne, hair loss, and dark patches, which can be treated with hormonal and non-hormonal therapies.
