A qualitative study to assess the effectiveness of laser epilation using a quality-of-life scoring system.

BACKGROUND

Facial hirsutism has a negative effect on the quality of life (QOL) of female patients.

AIM

To assess the efficacy of laser epilation on the quality of life in hirsute women.

METHODS

Over a 6-month period, we recruited 38 patients with severe pathological facial hirsutism. Each patient completed a pretreatment questionnaire consisting of a modified Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), a visual analogue scoring system, and an 'out-of-10' scoring system. The patients were also scored independently by a doctor and a nurse. Each patient received a laser-epilation treatment programme and was reassessed in an identical fashion.

RESULTS

Following laser epilation, the mean patient DLQI score fell by 5 points. All three scoring groups scored lower across all scoring methods following laser treatment. There was also correlation in scoring between disciplines.

CONCLUSION

DLQI provides a valid scoring system to assess the efficacy of laser epilation. The interdisciplinary scores in this study indicate that an objective grading system for facial hirsutism could be developed in the future.