title: The role of laser and intense light sources in photo-epilation: a comparative evaluation.
abstract: The method for laser and light assisted hair removal is based on the theory of selective photothermolysis. Selective absorption of hair chromophores from lasers and broad band light sources results in destruction of hair follicles while leaving the skin undamaged. A discussion of the basic principles of selective photothermolysis as it applies to hair removal by lasers and light sources is presented, followed by a comparative review of three melanin target based systems: Ruby laser, Alexandrite laser, and a broad band intense pulsed light. These systems are efficient and safe with proper patient selection. Multiple treatments are necessary due to the nature of the hair growth cycle.
authors.affiliation: Dermatologic Laser Center, University of California at Los Angeles, USA.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Lask
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Eckhouse
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Slatkine
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Waldman
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Kreindel
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Gottfried
mesh_terms: D006197:Hair / Q000254:growth & development; D006204:Hair Removal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006628:Hirsutism / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome