Long Pulsed Nd: YAG Laser with Inbuilt Cool Sapphire Tip for Long-Term Hair Reduction on Type IV and V Skin: A Prospective Analysis of 200 Patients

In a prospective study conducted on 200 female patients with skin types IV and V at Kaya Skin Clinic Delhi, the long-term safety and efficacy of long pulsed Nd: YAG laser for facial hair reduction were evaluated. The patients were treated from May 2006 to May 2009, and the interval between sessions was increased starting from the second session. Results assessed 6 months after completing 6 sessions showed that more than 50% improvement in hair reduction was observed in 68.7% of lower face cases, 89.69% of chin cases, and 59% of upper lip cases. No patients experienced worsening of hair growth or significant side effects. The study concluded that long pulsed Nd: YAG laser is a safe and effective method for long-term hair reduction in individuals with darker skin types, with the success attributed to adequate fluences, increased session intervals, proper cooling, and shaving techniques.