Long-term photoepilation using a broad-spectrum intense pulsed light source.
BACKGROUND
The goal of laser or flashlamp photoepilation is to produce long-term, cosmetically significant hair removal. We document the long-term efficacy achieved with an intense pulsed light source for photoepilation.


METHODS
Prospective study comparing long-term results of single vs multiple treatments, and effects of anatomic site and skin type on efficacy of photoepilation with a device emitting broad-spectrum, noncoherent (nonlaser) radiation from 550- to 1200-nm wavelengths, in macropulses divided into 2 to 5 minipulses.


METHODS
Private dermatology practice.


METHODS
Thirty-four patients (8 men, 26 women) with hirsutism.


METHODS
Parameters for the study were wavelength of 615 to 695 nm, pulse duration of 2.6 to 3.3 milliseconds, fluence of 34 to 42 J/cm(2), 10 x 45-mm exposure field, and application of 1 degrees C cooling gel.


METHODS
Hair removal efficiency, calculated as percentage ratio of the number of hairs present compared with baseline counts, and patient satisfaction questionnaire completed at last follow-up.


RESULTS
The mean hair removal efficiency achieved was 76% after a mean of 3.7 treatments. More than 94% of the sites reached mean hair removal efficiency values greater than 50%. Hair removal efficiency was not significantly related to skin type, hair color, anatomic site, or number of treatments. Side effects were mild and reversible and occurred in a minority of patients (hyperpigmentation in 3 and superficial crusting in 2).


CONCLUSIONS
Our data document the long-term clinical efficacy of intense pulsed light source-induced hair removal in light and dark skin phenotypes. Maximal photoepilation was achieved from the initial 1 to 3 treatments; only a small added benefit was seen after more treatments.
Sadick
N S
NS
Department of Dermatology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA. nssderm@earthlink.net
Weiss
R A
RA
Shea
C R
CR
Nagel
H
H
Nicholson
J
J
Prieto
V G
VG
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006204:Hair Removal / Q000379:methods; D006628:Hirsutism / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010789:Phototherapy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome