EFFECTIVENESS OF THE TRIPLE WAVELENGTH DIODE LASER PLATFORM IN THE PHOTEPILATION OF PATIENTS WITH HIGH SKIN PHOTOTYPES

Abstract

Due to the higher melanin content, high skin phototypes make it easier to direct the laser light to the core of each hair and cause greater heating of the environment in its path, increasing the risk of burns. This is why these patients need to be safely epilated. Photoepilation is currently one of the most advanced hair removal techniques in the treatment of unwanted hair; however, there are few studies on its effectiveness and safety in high phototypes. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the triple wavelength diode laser in hair reduction, a quasi-experimental study was carried out with Fitzpatrick III-IV skin phototypes between March and August 2022 on 30 privately practicing women who met the inclusion criteria. After obtaining the patients´ clinical history and assessment with their prior informed consent, follicular density was observed, and photographs were taken of the area to be treated: chin, underarms and bikini line. A Diode laser was applied with a cooling system at wavelengths of 755 nm, 808 nm and 1064 nm in 3-4 sessions with intervals of 21-28 days. The results show a hair reduction of 58.29% ± 14.22%, with pain or hypersensitivity as an adverse effect in 20.00% of patients and treatment satisfaction in 73.33%. These results allow to conclude that the use of triple wavelength diode laser photoepilation is a beneficial and safe therapeutic option; it is effective in a few sessions for hair reduction in high skin phototypes, with better results in phototype IV, with high follicular densities and when working in the axillary area. However, completing the treatment cycle in 8 or 10 sessions is recommended.