Attitudinal Trends and Misconceptions of Laser Hair Removal Among the Dermatology Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Laser hair removal (LHR) is one of the most widely applied cosmetic procedures for the management of unwanted hair. However, some misconceptions or concerns may refrain people from LHR. The aim of this study is to evaluate the attitudes and misconceptions of LHR practices in dermatology patients.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1002 patients attending the dermatology clinic. They were asked to complete a survey about their LHR history and attitudes, including a questionnaire regarding LHR knowledge and the Chew Health Literacy Scale. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to determine the factors related to having LHR.

RESULTS

Three hundred thirty-five (33.4%) of the participants had used LHR and among these, 45.1% were treated with Alexandrite laser. Axilla (24.9%) was the most common site of application of LHR. The most frequently reported side effect was transient redness (14.0%). The median score of the LHR knowledge questionnaire and the Chew Health Literacy Scale were higher among those who had used LHR (p < 0.001). Participants who were 25-34 years of age, women, university graduates, high income levels, low levels of concern about LHR, high knowledge levels about LHR, and adequate health literacy were independently associated with favoring the application of LHR procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to socioeconomic status, adequate levels of knowledge and health literacy have substantial roles in consideration of laser epilation. Dermatologists should provide sufficient information for the population and prevent the spread of misconceptions about LHR in order to reduce the psychosocial effects of excessive hair growth.