TLDR Laser hair removal has advanced to effectively reduce hair for various skin types and hair colors.
Since 1996, significant advancements in laser hair removal technology have been made, primarily utilizing melanin as a chromophore. Devices such as the ruby (694 nm), alexandrite (755 nm), and diode (810 nm) lasers, along with intense pulsed light, were effective for patients with light skin (phototypes I–III), achieving approximately 75% hair reduction. The long-pulsed Nd:YAG (1064 nm) laser was identified as the safest option for dark-skinned patients due to its longer wavelength, though other devices like the diode and alexandrite lasers, and intense pulsed light could also be used. For light hair, combination radiofrequency and optical devices, as well as photodynamic therapy, were under investigation.
47 citations,
November 2000 in “Archives of dermatology” Pulsed infrared laser can effectively reduce symptoms of pseudofolliculitis barbae.
90 citations,
February 2000 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Alexandrite laser hair removal is safe for darker skin tones.
294 citations,
August 1999 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Laser hair removal is safe with the right settings, but side effects like pain and skin changes are more common in darker or tanned skin.
85 citations,
June 1999 in “Dermatologic Surgery” The long-pulsed alexandrite laser is safe and effective for hair reduction.
26 citations,
April 1999 in “Dermatologic Clinics” The long-pulsed alexandrite laser is effective for hair reduction, particularly for light-skinned individuals with dark hair, but caution is needed for darker skin.
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.
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.
46 citations,
December 2000 in “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” Laser and light treatments offer quick, long-lasting hair removal for large areas.
