Long-lasting hypopigmentation induced by long-pulsed alexandrite laser photo-epilation.
BACKGROUND
Long-lasting hypopigmentation induced by laser hair removal systems has been reported. OBJECTIVE. : To evaluate clinical aspects of a female Caucasian that developed long-lasting hypopigmentation in the arms and forearms after photodepilation with a long-pulsed alexandrite laser.


METHODS
A 29-year-old Caucasian female (phototype III) with localized hypertrichosis in the upper limbs was submitted to long-pulsed alexandrite laser-assisted hair removal. One treatment session was done with these laser parameters: a pulse width of 2 ms, a spot of 7 mm, and fluence energy of 18 J/cm2.


RESULTS
The patient developed long-lasting hypopigmentation (more than 6 months) in the arms and forearms after a single treatment session of photodepilation.


CONCLUSIONS
Long-pulsed alexandrite laser may induce reversible melanocyte suppression and long-lasting hypopigmentation.
Moreno-Arias
Gerardo A
GA
Centro Médico Teknon, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
Camps-Fresneda
Alejandro
A
D000328:Adult; D001132:Arm; D005260:Female; D006204:Hair Removal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D017496:Hypopigmentation / Q000209:etiology*