Hair removal using a 5-msec long-pulsed ruby laser

BACKGROUND. Unwanted hair is a widespread cosmetic problem. Many temporary methods of hair removal exist, with laser hair removal rapidly becoming the most widely used modality. OBJECTIVES. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy and side effects of a long-pulsed ruby laser for epilation in patients with varying skin types and hair color 6 weeks and 6 months after treatment. METHODS. Seventy-four patients received one to four treatments with a long- pulsed ruby laser (694 nm, 5-msec pulse length, 6 mm spot size, 17.5-32 J/c m(2)) in different body areas. RESULTS. After a mean number of treatments of 1.98 (range 1-4) the mean cle arance was 51-75% after 6 weeks and less than 25% after 6 months. A lower p ercentage of hair regrowth was observed in the facial region than on the tr unk or legs and in dark hair compared to blond hair. CONCLUSION. Laser epilation provides a quick and relatively comfortable, bu t nonpermanent modality for hair removal with few side effects.