Hair Removal With The Long-Pulse Alexandrite Laser

In a retrospective study of 322 patients who underwent long-pulse alexandrite laser hair removal over three or more sessions from January 2000 to December 2002, an overall hair reduction rate of 80.8% was observed, regardless of skin type. Patients were selected based on skin type using the Fitzpatrick classification and those with systemic diseases, sun sensitivity, or a history of photosensitivity due to drugs were excluded. The laser treatments were performed using a constant spot size of 18 mm and a pulse width of 3-ms at an energy of 755 nm, with session intervals varying by body part. Post-treatment, there were 2 cases of hypopigmentation and 8 cases of hyperpigmentation, but no other complications were reported. The study concluded that the long-pulse alexandrite laser is effective for permanent hair removal, emphasizing the importance of patient examination and education for successful outcomes.