From the Research
Diode laser hair reduction is effective for both males and females, with the most recent and highest quality study 1 showing an overall hair reduction of 85% and 88% on the right and left axilla, respectively, after six treatments.
Key Differences Between Males and Females
- Males typically require higher energy settings and more treatment sessions (8-12) compared to females (6-8 sessions) due to their coarser, denser hair and higher androgen levels which stimulate hair growth.
- Treatment areas differ as well, with men commonly treating the back, shoulders, and chest, while women focus on legs, underarms, and bikini areas.
- Males experience more discomfort during treatment because of their thicker hair follicles absorbing more laser energy.
Important Considerations
- Hormonal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome in females may reduce treatment efficacy and require concurrent medical management.
- The diode laser (typically 800-810nm wavelength) works by targeting melanin in hair follicles, making it most effective for individuals with dark hair and lighter skin.
- Treatment intervals are typically 4-8 weeks apart, with maintenance sessions recommended annually after completing the initial series.
- Side effects for both genders include temporary redness, swelling, and rarely, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, though proper cooling systems and appropriate settings minimize these risks.
Comparison with Other Laser Types
- A study comparing the diode laser with a home-use laser device found that the professional diode laser was more effective, with an overall hair reduction of 85% and 88% on the right and left axilla, respectively, compared to 52% and 46.3% for the home-use laser 1.
- Another study found that a triple wavelength laser hair reduction technology was effective and safe to use in subjects with skin types IV and V for facial and body hair 2.