Comparison among Intense Pulsed Light, Alexandrite, and Long-Pulsed Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet 1064 Nm Lasers for Lower Leg Hair Removal: Case Series.

Abstract

Lower leg hair removal is the method of reducing unwanted lower leg hair. Various technologies for lower leg hair removal include Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), alexandrite laser, and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) laser. Conventional techniques are abandoned because effectiveness of the latest technological therapies has a longer period with minimal side effects. The comparison of successful treatment among IPL, alexandrite laser, and Nd: YAG laser for lower leg hair removal. Two patients, male and female, 28 years old, Fitzpatrick IV skin type. Three areas in the lower legs are marked for IPL 695 nm, fluence 15 J/cm², pulse duration 60 ms; alexandrite 755 nm, fluence 3 J/cm², pulse duration 2 ms, long-pulsed Nd: YAG 1064 nm, fluence 32 J/cm², pulse duration 60 ms. IPL for 3 sessions at 2-week intervals. The alexandrite and Nd: YAG lasers for 3 sessions at 4-week intervals. Successful parameters with hair reduction and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) can be seen from photography and dermoscopy before and after therapy. In the first case, the most effective reduction terminal hair after IPL (95,1%), alexandrite (91,02%) and Nd: YAG (79,69%), respectively. In the second case, the most effective reduction of terminal hair after alexandrite (91,02%), Nd: YAG (79,69%), and IPL (20%), respectively. Hyperpigmentation and the highest VAS score (6-7) are found in the area treated with alexandrite lasers of two patients. Two patients have decreased Dermatology Life Quality Index scores. Nd: YAG laser may be better suitable for both sexes with minimal side effects. The limitation of this study is the smaller subject group and limited session.