title: Laser hair removal.
abstract: The extended theory of selective photothermolysis enables the laser surgeon to target and destroy hair follicles, thereby leading to hair removal. Today, laser hair removal (LHR) is the most commonly requested cosmetic procedure in the world and is routinely performed by dermatologists, other physicians, and non-physician personnel with variable efficacy. The ideal candidate for LHR is fair skinned with dark terminal hair; however, LHR can today be successfully performed in all skin types. Knowledge of hair follicle anatomy and physiology, proper patient selection and preoperative preparation, principles of laser safety, familiarity with the various laser/light devices, and a thorough understanding of laser-tissue interactions are vital to optimizing treatment efficacy while minimizing complications and side effects.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California 95816, USA. omar.ibrahimi@gmail.com
authors.forename: Omar A
authors.initials: OA
authors.lastname: Ibrahimi
authors.forename: Mathew M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Avram
authors.forename: C William
authors.initials: CW
authors.lastname: Hanke
authors.forename: Suzanne L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Kilmer
authors.forename: R Rox
authors.initials: RR
authors.lastname: Anderson
mesh_terms: D000359:Aftercare; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005260:Female; D006200:Hair Color; D018859:Hair Follicle / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D006204:Hair Removal / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D018579:Patient Selection; D011300:Preoperative Care; D016896:Treatment Outcome