New intense pulse light device with square pulse technology for hirsutism in Indian patients: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND

Intense pulse light (IPL) with square pulse technology is one of the latest hair removal technologies to be marketed in India. However, there is no literature on use of IPL in Indian skin.

OBJECTIVE

A preliminary descriptive study to ascertain the efficacy of an IPL device with square pulse technology for hair removal in Indian patients.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The IFL i200 system (Cyden Ltd, Swansea, UK) was used for hair removal on 12 patients of skin type III, IV and V up to a maximum of six sessions. Hair removal efficacy (HRE) was calculated and photographs taken after each session.

RESULTS

Treatment was done for 12 patients. Mean HRE was 69.6%; 83% were satisfied with the procedure; 66% had excellent results; 16% had good results. No permanent adverse effects were seen.

CONCLUSION

With standard precautions, IPL is a safe and effective tool for hair removal in Indian patients. Further studies to compare square pulse technology with traditional IPL systems and lasers are required.