800 nanometer diode laser hair removal in African American patients: a clinical and histologic study.

Background: Although numerous lasers are available for laser assisted hair removal, their use in individuals with a dark skin type presents many challenges due to competition from epidermal melanin.

Objective: Our aim was to evaluate two 800 nm diode lasers (Lightsheer) with 30 msec and 100 msec pulse durations in the treatment of African American patients with skin types V and VI. Histologic studies, efficacy and side effects were examined in an effort to optimize laser hair removal procedures in this patient population.

Methods: Facial, neck and axillary areas were treated using 800 nm diode lasers at 30 and 100 msec pulse durations with fluences between 15 J/cm2 and 40 J/cm2.

Results: Both lasers could be used safely in skin type V and VI African American patients. Longer pulse durations enabled the delivery of higher fluences with minor and acceptable postoperative complication profiles.

Conclusions: The Lightsheer diode laser (Coherent Medical, Santa Clara, CA, USA) operating at 30 msec and 100 msec can be safely used in hair removal procedures in African American patients.