ABSTRACT

Laser hair removal was first approved by the FDA in 1995 and has become an increasingly popular procedure over the past several years. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there were over 1.5 million laser hair removal procedures performed in 2005, an increase of more than 300% over 5 years ago. It is the second most commonly performed nonsurgical cosmetic procedure, and the most common procedure for individuals 18 years and younger. Initial laser and light based technology was designed for the treatment of dark hair on light skin.