Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Long-Term Efficacy of Linear-Scanning 808nm Diode Laser for Hair Removal Compared to a Scanned Alexandrite Laser

Background and Objective: Alexandrite and diode lasers are commonly used for hair removal. To date, the available spot sizes and repetition rates are defining factors in terms of penetration depth, treatment speed, and efficacy. Still, larger treatment areas and faster systems are desirable. To compare the efficacy, tolerability, and subject satisfaction of a continuously linear-scanning 808nm diode laser with an alexandrite 755nm laser for axillary hair removal. Study Design: A total of 31 adults with skin types I–IV received 6 treatments at 4-week intervals with a 755nm alexandrite laser (right axilla) and a continuously linearscanning 808nm diode laser (left axilla). Axillary hair density was assessed using a computerized hair detection system. Results: There was a significant reduction in axillary hair after the 6th treatment (P< 0.05) on both sides (left, 808nm: hair clearance of 72.16%; right, 755nm: hair clearance of 71.30%). The difference in reduction between the two lasers was not significant, but both were persistant at 18 months follow-up (left: hair clearance of 73.71%; right: hair clearance of 71.90%). Erythema and perifollicular edema were more common after alexandrite laser treatment, but all side effects were transient. While 62.50% of patients reported more pain in response to treatment with the new diode laser, all patients rated treatment with either laser tolerable. Conclusion:Treatment with either the alexandrite or the linear-scanning diode laser results in significant, comparable, persistent (at least 18 months) axillary hair reduction among individuals with skin types I–IV. Lasers Surg. Med. 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.