Low-fluence vs. standard fluence hair removal: A contralateral control non-inferiority study

INTRODUCTION Laser hair removal at lower fluences, delivered under certain conditions, may retain the efficacy of high-fluence lasers while improving tolerability. We performed a pilot study comparing the efficacy, safety and tolerability of laser hair removal using traditional settings compared to lower fluences, delivered from a larger handpiece and under vacuum. MATERIAL AND METHODS Fourteen healthy participants underwent 5 axillary hair removal treatments with an 800 nm diode laser at 1-month intervals, with follow-up 1 and 3 months after the 5th treatment. In all patients, one side was treated with standard parameters using a 9×9 mm chilled tip and gel, while the contralateral side was treated using a 22×35 mm vacuum-assisted handpiece at fluences up to 12 J/cm(2). Follow-up assessments were performed after each treatment and at each follow-up visit, and included photography and questionnaires. RESULTS Eleven participants completed the study and follow-up. All experienced significant hair removal in all treated areas. At the 3-month follow-up visit, the high-fluence and low-fluence treated axillae demonstrated comparable hair reduction. Participants found the lower fluence treatments to be more tolerable. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION Lower fluence diode laser, delivered under conditions of vacuum and using larger spot sizes, can provide significant hair reduction.