Facial Hirsutism Treated with the Normal-Mode Ruby Laser: Results of a 12-Month Follow-Up Study

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.