Hair Removal Using the Ruby Laser in BMA Medical College and Vajira Hospital

Abstract

Hair Removal Using the Ruby Laser in BMA Medical College and Vajira Hospital

Poth Thirakhupt DDS, MD

Plastic unit, Department of Surgery, BMA Medical College and Vajira Hospital

Objective: To determine the efficacy of hair removal using the Ruby laser in BMA Medical College and Vajira Hospital.

Study design: Retrospective descriptive study.

Subjects: A total of 95 sites from 54 patients were treated by Ruby laser epilation mode for hair removal at The Plastic unit, BMA Medical College and Vajira Hospital, from August 2007 - December 2008.

Methods: Medical records of patients who presented for hair removal were reviewd for age, sex, skin color, hair removal site, number of treatments, results, and complications after Ruby laser epilation.

Main outcome measures: No hair regrowth, no visualized hair follicles at 6 months after last treatment, complications.

Results: From 54 patients included, 50 were female while 4 were male. The average age was 31.4 ± 9.0 years. The most frequent sites of epilation in female were the axilla and lower legs 45 cases and 43 cases respectively, and in male was the moustache (3 cases). The average number of treatment was 3.6 ± 2.6 times. No hair regrowth and no visualized hair follicles was found in the area treated by Ruby laser epilation in all patients (100%) at 6 months after the last treatment. The complications noted was hyperpigmentation in 5.5% of the patients or 3.2% of the sites treated. All patients, who had hyperpigmentation, had dark skin color. All hyperpigmentation resolved spontaneously within 4 months.

Conclusion: The efficacy of Ruby laser for hair removal is good. No hair regrowth and no visualized hair follicles were found at 6 months after the last treatment. The side effect is minimal and self healing.

Vajira Med J 2009 ; 53 : 115-120