Laser Hair Removal: Principles, Techniques, and Advances

The 2011 article reviews laser hair removal (LHR), detailing the principles of selective photothermolysis for targeting hair follicles, and the importance of understanding hair anatomy and physiology for effective treatment. It acknowledges that while LHR was initially best for individuals with fair skin and dark hair, technological advancements have expanded its applicability to all skin types. The review covers alternative hair removal methods but notes their lack of permanence compared to LHR. It also lists available laser and light devices for hair removal at the time and underscores the necessity of proper patient selection, preoperative preparation, and laser safety for successful outcomes. The document further explains post-procedure care, including managing common side effects like perifollicular erythema and edema, and the need for multiple sessions, as only about 15% of hair is permanently removed per session. It highlights the risk of pigmentary changes and paradoxical hypertrichosis as complications, discusses pain control advancements, and mentions the limited evidence for home-use devices and alternative technologies like ELOS, which showed promise in a study of 40 patients. The conclusion emphasizes that LHR is the most requested cosmetic procedure globally, and the field has transitioned from an art to a science.