Hair removal evaluated with a filterless flashlamp-based system: a preliminary study in 10 patients.

BACKGROUND

A relatively inexpensive, portable epilation system based on unfiltered flashlamp technology (Spa Touch, Epilast, Paris, France)was macroscopically and histologically evaluated for efficacy and duration of hair removal.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Ten patients participated (eight female, two male, aged 22-62 years, skin types I-V). The system delivers a 35 ms pulse of 6-7.5 J/cm2 of broadband infrared visible light through a large treatment window in the handpiece, held in light contact with the target skin,without skin cooling or anaesthesia. The skin was shaved before the first treatment, and the subsequent frequency of application over a further four sessions was done every month.

RESULTS

Histology revealed the destruction of most of the hair shaft, with regrowth of finer and lighter hair approximately 4 weeks after the final treatment, depending on the area treated. Patients were satisfied with results if epilation was maintained on a monthly basis. A delay in treatment allows hair to grow back. An interesting observation was recorded on white and vellous hair. Nine of the 10 patients noted better skin condition in the treated area.

CONCLUSIONS

This system retards hair regrowth and acts as a 'light razor' that can be implemented for speedy epilation at a reasonable cost.