Long-pulsed ruby laser-assisted hair removal in male-to-female transsexuals.
BACKGROUND
Unwanted male-pattern pilosity is a heavy psychological burden and can cause distress for male-to-female transsexuals. Orchidectomy and oestrogen supplementation combined with antiandrogens fail to make hair disappear.


OBJECTIVE
To study the effect of long-pulsed ruby laser treatment.


RESULTS
Hair density was successfully abated on the beard and chest of three male-to-female transsexuals. A lingering effect over 6 months with a 50-90% hair density reduction was obtained.


CONCLUSIONS
Photothermolysis using the long-pulsed ruby laser is a promising, well-tolerated method of hair removal in male-to-female transsexuals under oestrogen supplementation and antiandrogens.
Paquet
P
P
Department of Dermatopathology, Unit of Dermocosmetology, University Medical Center Sart Tilman and Sauvenière, Liège, Belgium. P.Paquet@chu.ulg.ac.be
Fumal
I
I
Piérard-Franchimont
C
C
Piérard
G E
GE