Multipass low fluence, high-frequency 755-nm alexandrite laser versus high fluence, low-frequency 1064-nm long-pulsed Nd: YAG laser in axillary hair reduction of dark skin phototypes: an intra-individual randomized comparative study

Abstract

Background

Laser hair removal has become popular means of achieving hair reduction with improved quality of life.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of Multipass low fluence, high-frequency 755-nm Alexandrite laser versus the high fluence, low-frequency 1064-nm long-pulsed Nd: YAG laser on axillary hair reduction in women with dark skin phototypes.

Patients and methods

This study was carried out on 30 adult women [skin type, IV-VI)] who seek axillary hair reduction. These subjects were adjusted to receive 5 laser sessions with a 1-month interval. One side received high fluence, low-frequency 1064-nm laser where the other side received multipass low fluence, high-frequency 755 nm laser. The follow-up was done using photographs, folliscope, patients’ visual analog pain scale.

Results

The mean percentage of hair density reduction showed significant improvement in both treated sides being higher in the Alex treated side with corresponding significant decreases in the mean hair thickness.

Conclusion

Multipass low fluence, high-frequency 755-nm Alex laser practice was verified to be safe and effective for hair removal in dark skin phototypes compared to the high fluence, low frequency 1064-nm long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser.

Keywords:

• Hair removal
• axillary hair
• Alexandrite laser
• long-pulsed Nd-YAG laser
• dark skin

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflict of interest.