Laser-Assisted Hair Removal: Side Effects of Q-Switched Nd:YAG, Long-Pulsed Ruby, and Alexandrite Lasers
August 1999
in “
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
”
laser-assisted hair removal Q-switched Nd:YAG laser long-pulsed ruby laser alexandrite laser erythema edema hypopigmentation hyperpigmentation blistering crusting erosions purpura folliculitis Fitzpatrick skin phototypes laser hair removal Nd:YAG laser ruby laser alexandrite laser redness swelling light spots dark spots blisters scabs skin erosions bruising inflamed hair follicles skin types
TLDR 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.
In a retrospective study examining 900 laser-assisted hair removal treatments over 24 months, side effects such as pain, erythema, edema, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, blistering, crusting, erosions, purpura, and folliculitis were observed. The majority of these side effects occurred in patients with tanned skin or those with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes III and higher, particularly with the use of long-pulse ruby and alexandrite lasers. Seasonal variations, anatomic treatment locations, and sun exposure significantly influenced the incidence of side effects in these groups. Despite these side effects, the study concluded that laser-assisted hair removal is safe when appropriate laser treatment parameters are selected based on patient characteristics, such as skin type and sun exposure. The study found no infections, scarring, or long-term complications associated with the treatments.
