Hair removal with Intensive  Pulse Light System (IPLS): a 6-month follow-up

DDV MSc PhD, MBChB; Abed Hadi Al-Wakeel, Hadi

	Hair removal with Intensive Pulse Light System (IPLS): a 6-month follow-up
KUFA MEDICAL JOURNAL
Article 1, Volume 11, Issue 1, 2008, Pages 384-389
Authors
MBChB DDV MSc PhD; Hadi Abed Hadi Al-Wakeel
Abstract
Background: A variety of lasers and light sources have been used for hair removal. A novel flashlamp-based device, with a mechanism of action of flash light therapy has recently become available. Objective: To assess the efficacy, side effects and long-term results of the Intensive Pulse Light therapy for photo-epilation. Methods: A total of 50 female patients, skin types IV and V, with dark, coarse hair mainly on the chin, cheeks and mustache, were reviewed after having been treated during the previous 18 months with this system. Each patient had at least four sessions with a maximum of nine. No depilatory treatment except shaving was allowed during the time of follow-up. The percentage of hair reduction was measured clinically or by comparing (before and after) photographs. Results: After four to nine sessions, depending on the anatomic location, all patients showed hair reduction as well as hair thinning. The percentage of reduction varied depending on the anatomic location and number of sessions, the covered areas responding better than the exposed areas. Transient side effects were limited to a stinging sensation during the session and to redness, which lasted for up to 2 days. No chronic side effects were observed. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that this device is safe and effective for hair removal with a long-term effect.

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