Fixed, Low Radiant Exposure vs. Incremental Radiant Exposure Approach for Diode Laser Hair Reduction: A Randomized, Split Axilla, Comparative Single-Blinded Trial
TLDR Both fixed and incremental laser treatments effectively reduced underarm hair, but the fixed method was less painful.
The study compared the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of fixed, low radiant exposure versus incremental radiant exposure diode laser treatments for axillary hair removal in 39 participants. Both treatment protocols resulted in similar hair reduction (≥76%) at a 6-month follow-up, with 59% and 67% of participants achieving this level of reduction for fixed and incremental exposures, respectively. However, the fixed, low radiant exposure treatment was associated with significantly lower pain scores (VAS 4.26 vs. 5.64, P < 0.0003) and better tolerability (P = 0.03). The only side effect observed was mild and transient erythema. Overall, both treatments were effective and yielded high patient satisfaction, but the fixed, low radiant exposure was less painful and better tolerated.
