Hair Removal on Indian Skin

Among many light sources currently available in the market for hair reduction, 1064 nm Nd:YAG has proved to be the safest for dark skin types like Fitzpatrick types IV and V, which are the most common in India. Large laser spots with long laser pulse durations have traditionally been used for hair reduction. This technique, although efficient, is also associated with patient discomfort and potential side effects. Recently, the use of sub-millisecond 1064 nm Nd:YAG was introduced for hair reduction and was found to be more appropriate for darker skin. In this case report we evaluate the efficacy, discomfort and safety of the sub-millisecond FRAC3 Nd:YAG modality for long-term hair reduction. Five cases are described ranging from dark and thick to light and very fine hair. Clinical results showed more than 50% hair reduction in all patients at 6-month follow-ups. Patient assessment was even better, with 75% average improvement described. The technique was well tolerated by the patients and no adverse effects were observed.