Wheeland, 1997 Title: Laser-assisted hair removal.
Author: Wheeland RG
Journal: Dermatol Clin 1997 Jul;15(3):469-77
PMID: 9189683, UI: 97333523
Affiliated institution: Department
of Dermatology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, USA.
Cited in: Solomon, McCoy
The use of lasers in the treatment of a number of
different skin disorders and diseases has become commonplace.
This tremendous acceptance by both physicians and patients is
a direct reflection of the high degree of precision and selectivity
provided by lasers, which helps to minimize the risk of side effects
and complications while simultaneously maximizing the opportunity
for obtaining a satisfactory outcome. In an attempt to remove
unwanted or excess hair, the principles of selective photothermolysis
have been employed with several different laser and light devices
that permit the effective treatment of large areas of hair-bearing
skin with minimal discomfort and with low risk of scarring or
other complications. It is possible using current laser technology
to permanently remove some hair and induce a prolonged delay in
the regrowth of many hairs. With additional experience and an
improved understanding of how light can influence the rate and
quality of hair growth, it is anticipated that permanent hair
removal will be achieved in the near future.
This is a good overview of hair removal methods
from 1997. Sections include:
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Embryology and anatomy of hair follicles
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Phases of hair growth
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Causes of hirsutism and hypertrichosis
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Current nonlaser techniques for hair removal
"The only hair removal technique that has the
proven capability of providing permanent removal of hair is electrolysis."
"It is possible using current laser technology
to permanently remove some hair and induce a prolonged delay in
the regrowth of many hairs."
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