Publication:

Intense pulsed light for the treatment of hirsutism

Background Hirsutism can represent a severe cosmetic disturbance, sometimes with psychological implications. Various lasers and broadband light sources have been developed for treatment of hirsutism. The objective of this study was to know the efficacy of IPL in hirsutism patientsMethods: Forty patients were included in the study. Treatment parameters in respect of pulse duration and fluence were determined according to manufacturer’s recommendation. Hair removal efficiency was calculated as a percentage of the number of hairs present at each visit compared with baseline count.

Results Most of the patients were of the skin type 4 and type 5. More number of patients had hair growth over the chin and sides. Among 40 patients, 70% of patients had good response and 15% of patients had an excellent response. Minimal side effects only noted.

Conclusions IPL is safe and efficient modality for treatment of hirsutism.