title: Topical suspension-assisted Q-switched Nd:YAG laser hair removal.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Many individuals seek to decrease facial and body hair density. Although a variety of epilating methods are available, improved techniques would be of interest to patients and physicians alike.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To determine the safety and clinical efficacy of a new laser-based method of hair removal.
  
  
  METHODS
  A Q-switched Nd:YAG laser was used to scan skin with increased hair after applying a topical carbon-based solution. Thirty-five healthy, adult volunteers were treated with a single treatment to selected facial, neck, and axillary sites.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Twelve weeks after a single treatment, integrated site scores revealed that the majority of patients had over 25% fewer hairs. The 12-week mean percentage of hair reduction, based on anatomic sites, ranged up to 66% and 44% as judged by physicians and subjects, respectively. Adverse events were minimal and temporary.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Topical suspension-assisted Q-switched Nd:YAG laser therapy reduces hair density after a single treatment. Advantages include its speed, technical ease, and minimal adverse effects.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark, USA.
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Goldberg
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Littler
authors.forename: R G
authors.initials: RG
authors.lastname: Wheeland
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002244:Carbon / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006204:Hair Removal / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D008899:Mineral Oil / Q000008:administration & dosage; D013535:Suspensions
chemical_list: D013535:Suspensions; D002244:Carbon; D008899:Mineral Oil