Laser hair removal in a patient with hypertrichosis lanuginosa congenita.

BACKGROUND

Hypertrichosis lanuginosa congenita (HLC) is a cutaneous disorder marked by diffuse lanugo-like hair present at birth. Although affected individuals are usually healthy, the excessive hair creates an extraordinary appearance. Permanent eradication of their superfluous hair is therefore a priority. However, a procedure that would achieve this objective is not currently available.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of a new laser technique for hair reduction in a patient with HLC.

METHODS

Selected sites were repeatedly treated with a neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser subsequent to application of a topical carbon-based solution.

RESULTS

Forty to eighty percent hair reduction was noted in the sites treated.

CONCLUSION

Topical solution-assisted Q-switched Nd:YAG laser hair removal is a safe and effective method for reducing hair density in cases of extensive hypertrichosis. It is an attractive method for children because the low fluences used minimize the associated pain.