Laser hair removal

Laser hair removal is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that is well suited to the office-based practice. A great deal of improvement has occurred in the past 5 years with the technology and the understanding of how and for whom the procedure works. A review of the physics of laser-skin interactions is included as well as guidelines for safe and effective clinical treatments. Four wavelengths of lasers and intense light sources have proven successful for a variety of skin types. Average rates of long-term hair reduction, for properly treated subjects, are consistently reported between 70 and 90% at a minimum of 6 months. When performed by physician extenders under the supervision of a physician, maximal use of time and resources can be achieved.