Laser Hair Removal: Efficacy and Challenges

June 2002 in “ Seminars in cutaneous medicine and surgery ”

Richard J. Ort, Christine Dierickx

laser hair removal flashlamp technologies hair follicle biology

TLDR Laser hair removal works well for people with dark hair and light skin, but it's less effective for light hair or dark skin; improvements are expected.

As of June 2002, laser and flashlamp technologies were recognized as rapid, safe, and effective methods for the removal of unwanted hair, with an increasing number of studies confirming their long-term efficacy. However, the benefits were primarily limited to individuals with dark hair and fair skin. Challenges remained in developing treatments for light-colored hair and for safely treating individuals with darker skin. Technological advancements and ongoing research into hair follicle biology were expected to enhance these hair removal methods in the future.

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