ABSTRACT
Today, removing unwanted body hair is a worldwide trend, and photoepilation by laser or other light-based technology is one of the most highly requested procedures in cosmetic dermatology (6). Alternative methods for removing unwanted hair include bleaching, plucking, shaving, waxing, and chemical depilatories. Threading is a common practice in some cultures. Unfortunately, these methods do not provide a permanent solution to unwanted hair, and can be inconvenient and tedious (7,8). Electrolysis is a method for hair removal in which a fi ne needle is inserted deep into the hair follicle and uses electrical current, thereby destroying the hair follicle and allowing for permanent hair removal of all types of hair (9,10). However, this technique is extremely operator dependent and effi cacy in achieving permanent hair removal is variable among patients (9,10). It is also impractical in terms of treating large areas. Efl ornithine is a topical inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase that slows the rate of hair growth and is effective for decreasing unwanted facial hair (8), and is currently indicated for the removal of unwanted facial hair in women. Efl ornithine can be combined with lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) for hair removal (11,12). In this chapter, we provide a detailed overview on laser hair removal (LHR), including discussion of hair follicle biology, the science behind LHR, key factors in optimizing treatment, and future directions.
