title: Comparison of high-fluence, single-pass diode laser to low-fluence, multiple-pass diode laser for laser hair reduction with 18 months of follow up.
abstract: Laser hair removal is the most popular laser procedure in the United States (U.S.), yet there has not been a prospective study demonstrating long-term efficacy of diode laser hair removal beyond six months. A prospective, single-center, bilaterally paired, blinded, randomized comparison split leg study was carried out with 22 patients comparing high-fluence, single-pass diode laser to low-fluence, multiple-pass diode laser. Hair counts were done six and 18 months following five treatment sessions and were found to be comparable t90-94 percent hair reduction. Hair counts at six months following the fifth treatment were comparable to hair counts at 18 months, indicating that sixth-month hair counts can be considered indicative of long-term results. The low-fluence, multiple-pass in-motion technique was associated with significantly less pain compared to the high-fluence, single-pass technique. Multiple passes of a diode laser at low fluences but with high average power results in permanent hair removal with less discomfort and fewer adverse effects, especially in darker skin.
authors.affiliation: Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada. drmbraun@vancouverlaser.com
authors.forename: Martin
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Braun
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006204:Hair Removal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D054023:Lasers, Semiconductor / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome