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Published on: November 14, 2025
A Prospective Study of Axillary Hair Reduction in Patients Treated With Microwave Technology
Jeremy A Brauer1, Julia P Neckman, Brian Zelickson
1*Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, New York, New York; †Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, New York; ‡Zel Skin and Laser Specialists, Edina, Minnesota; §Lehigh Valley Dermatology Associates, Ltd., Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
A novel microwave energy device safely and effectively reduces underarm hair by approximately 70% in both light and dark hair. This noninvasive treatment offers a lasting solution for unwanted hair, even for lighter hair colors often resistant to laser therapy.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Aesthetic Medicine
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Growing societal trend for body hair removal.
- Limitations of current laser-based hair reduction methods, particularly for lighter hair colors.
- Need for effective and safe alternatives for axillary hair reduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the efficacy of a noninvasive microwave energy device for axillary hair reduction.
- To assess patient satisfaction and other outcomes following treatment.
- To evaluate the treatment's effectiveness on different hair colors.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, multicenter study involving 56 adult subjects.
- Treatment administered in 1-2 sessions with a microwave energy device.
- Follow-up conducted over 12 months, monitoring hair count reduction.
- Subjective assessments of satisfaction, odor, and sweat reduction collected.
Main Results:
- Average axillary hair reduction of approximately 70% for both light and dark hair.
- Significantly higher percentage of patients achieved 30% or more hair reduction compared to 50% at all follow-ups.
- Mild, transient post-treatment effects reported by half of subjects, including localized edema and discomfort.
Conclusions:
- The microwave energy device demonstrates safe and permanent axillary hair reduction.
- Stable hair reduction was observed throughout the 12-month follow-up period.
- The treatment is notably effective for reducing light-colored axillary hair, addressing a key limitation of other methods.
