Clinical efficacy of 1 064 nm/755 nm dual wavelength laser on hair removal / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective:To evaluate the clinical efficacy of 1 064 nm/755 nm dual wavelength laser on hair removal.Methods:A total of 60 patients aged 18-52 (30±7) years in our hospital from January 2017 to December 2017 were collected. 1 064 nm and 755 nm laser hair removal was performed at the same symmetrical areas or two different areas in the same patient. We performed 6 sessions of laser treatment at 6-week intervals and the effect was evaluated 6 weeks after the last session.Results:The hair removal efficacy was 96.7% (58 cases) at 1 064 nm, 96.7% (58 cases) at 755 nm laser treatment. There was no significant difference in the effective rate between two wavelengths laser hair removal methods ( P>0.05). The incidence of pigmentation was 1.7% (1 case) at 1 064 nm laser and was 3.3% (2 cases) at 755 nm laser without significant difference ( P>0.05). No hypopigmentation, blister or scar appeared in all patients. The total satisfactory rate was 95.0% (57 cases) at 1 064 nm, 98.3% (59 cases) at 755 nm laser treatment, respectively. Conclusions:1 064 nm/755 nm dual wavelength laser has definite therapeutic effect and safety on hair removal.

Preparación de la piel para la prevención de la Infección del Sitio Operatorio: Revisión de Alcance / Skin Preparation for the Prevention of Surgical Site Infection: A Scoping Review / Preparação da pele para a prevenção da infecção do sítio operatório: revisão do escopo

Resumen Introducción La Infección del sitio operatorio genera un impacto económico y social debido a los altos costos durante la recuperación, la estancia hospitalaria y la afectación de la calidad de vida, por esto, es necesario identificar las intervenciones y recomendaciones para la preparación de la piel, encaminadas a la prevención de la infección del sitio operatorio, basado en la evidencia científica. Materiales y Métodos Se realizó una revisión sistemática de alcance en el marco del Instituto Joanna Briggs y los parámetros Prisma-P. En las bases de datos Medline, OVID, Pubmed, Scielo, BVS y Cochrane, publicadas entre los años 2010-2019, en los idiomas inglés, portuges y español. Resultados Se analizaron 28 artículos. De estos, se identificaron 6 de la categoría general incluidas las guías de prevención de infección del sitio operatorio, 6 para el baño preoperatorio, 6 para la realización del rasurado y 10 de asepsia y antisepsia. Discusión Con respecto al baño preoperatorio, es una práctica recomendada internacionalmente, la evidencia demuestra que esta actividad no representa ningún beneficio; en la categoría de rasurado, la recomendación es no remover el vello a menos que sea absolutamente necesario. Frente a la asepsia del sitio quirúrgico, el aporte es más que todo informativo acerca de los antisépticos y se recomienda el uso de la clorhexidina. Conclusiones De acuerdo a la revisión sistemática de alcance de la literatura, no se evidencia una estandarización en las recomendaciones e intervenciones, para la preparación de la piel en la prevención de Infección del Sitio Operatorio.

Abstract Introduction Surgical Site Infections have an economic and social impact due to high costs during recovery, hospital stay and deterioration in quality of life. Therefore, it is required to identify interventions and recommendations for skin preparation aimed at preventing surgical site infection based on a scientific evidence-based approach. Materials and Methods A systematic scoping review was conducted on English, Portuguese and Spanish articles published in Medline, Ovid, PubMed, Scielo, BVS, and Cochrane in 2010-2019 using the Joanna Briggs Institute approach and Prisma-P parameters. Results After analyzing a total of 28 articles, 6 articles were found to be related to the general category (including guidelines for prevention of surgical site infection), 6 for preoperative bathing, 6 for preoperative hair removal and 10 for asepsis and antisepsis. Discussion Although preoperative bathing is an internationally recognized practice, scientific evidence shows that this activity does not have any benefit. As for preoperative hair removal, it is not recommended except where absolutely necessary. As for surgical asepsis, mostly informative aspects are found about the use of antiseptics and chlorhexidine. Conclusions Based on the systematic scoping review of the literature, a lack of standardization was found regarding interventions and recommendations for skin preparation for the prevention of Surgical Site Infection

Resumo Introdução A Infecção do Local Operatório gera impacto econômico e social devido aos altos custos durante a recuperação, internação e o impacto na qualidade de vida, portanto, é necessário identificar as intervenções e recomendações para o preparo da pele, visando à prevenção de cirurgias da infecção local operativo, com base em evidências científicas. Materiais e Métodos Uma revisão sistemática de alcance foi realizada dentro da estrutura do Instituto Joanna Briggs e dos parâmetros Prisma-P. Nas bases de dados Medline, OVID, Pubmed, Scielo, BVS e Cochrane, publicadas entre os anos 2010-2019, nos idiomas inglês, português e espanhol. Resultados Foram analisados 28 artigos. Destes, 6 foram identificados na categoria geral, incluindo as diretrizes de prevenção de infecção de local cirúrgico, 6 para o banho pré-operatório, 6 para barbear e 10 para assepsia e antissepsia. Discussão Em relação ao banho pré-operatório, é uma prática recomendada internacionalmente, as evidências demonstram que esta atividade não representa nenhum benefício; na categoria de barbear, a recomendação é não remover os pelos, a menos que seja absolutamente necessário. Dada à assepsia do local cirúrgico, a contribuição é principalmente informativa sobre os antissépticos e recomenda-se o uso da clorexidina. Conclusões De acordo com a revisão sistemática do alcance da literatura, não há evidências de uma padronização nas recomendações e intervenções, para o preparo da pele na prevenção da Infecção do Local Operatório.

La remoción de vello genital en mujeres gestantes en Colombia / Genital hair removal in pregnant women in Colombia

RESUMEN Introducción: La remoción del vello genital es muy común, siendo cada vez más popular la remoción total en mujeres en edad fértil. Los principales motivos para eliminar el vello púbico son la higiene, el atractivo físico y la feminidad; sin embargo, no es una práctica exenta de complicaciones. Actualmente, existe poca información sobre esta conducta en embarazadas. Objetivo: Describir la frecuencia y las características de la remoción del vello genital en gestantes de bajo riesgo obstétrico en una institución de primer nivel de Colombia. Material y métodos: Estudio prolectivo de cohorte que siguió durante todo el embarazo a 60 gestantes de bajo riesgo obstétrico en una institución de primer nivel. Se entregó una encuesta autoaplicable trimestral sobre la práctica de remoción del vello genital. Se compararon los resultados en diferentes trimestres del embarazo. Resultados: La mediana de la edad de las gestantes fue 22 años; 61% estaban en su primera gestación. Más del 95% reportó una conducta de remoción total al menos una vez en el mes previo a cada encuesta; la conducta puede calificarse como remoción permanente en más del 65% de los casos. El método empleado con más frecuencia (94%) fue la remoción con cuchilla de afeitar. No se encontraron cambios en esta práctica a lo largo del embarazo. Conclusión: A pesar de las complicaciones conocidas asociadas a esta conducta muchas mujeres rasuran su vello genital debido a diversas razones socioculturales. Este estudio encontró una alta prevalencia de la práctica de remoción de vello genital en gestantes, sin que se evidenciara que dicha conducta cambiase a lo largo del embarazo.

SUMMARY Introduction: Genital hair removal is very common, with the increasingly popular tendency for total removal in women of childbearing age. The main reasons for removing pubic hair are hygiene, physical attractiveness and aesthetic; however, it is not a complication-free practice. Currently, there is little information about this behavior in pregnant women. Aim: To describe the frequency and characteristics of genital hair removal in pregnant women with low obstetric risk in a first level institution in Colombia. Material and methods: Prolective cohort study was conducted that included 60 pregnant women with low obstetric risk in a first level institution. A self-applicable survey on the practice of genital hair removal was delivered each trimester. The results were compared in different trimesters of pregnancy. Results: The median age was 22 years; 61% were primigestant. More than 95% reported total genital hair removal at least the previous month to survey; this conduct could be considered as permanent in 65% of women. The most frequently used method was razor blade removal (93.8%). No changes were found in this practice throughout pregnancy. Conclusion: Despite the known complications associated with this behavior, many women shave their genital hair due to various sociocultural reasons. This study found a high prevalence of the practice of genital hair removal in pregnant women, without evidencing that such behavior changed throughout pregnancy.

Impact of genital hair removal on female skin microenvironment: barrier disruption and risk of infection, a literature review / Impacto da depilação genital no microambiente da pele feminina: ruptura de barreira e risco de infecção, uma revisão da literatura / Impacto de la depilación genital en el microambiente de la piel femenina: interrupción de la barrera y riesgo de infección, una revisión de la literatura

Abstract Genital hair is one of the secondary sexual traits that marks the beginning of puberty; its removal has been part of human culture since ancient times. This practice may lead to modifications in vaginal microbiome with potential repercussions on skin health and balance. We conducted a narrative review with the purpose of describing normal skin microbiota, its impact under microenvironment changes and genital hair removal. Menses, pathological conditions and pubic hair removal may alter vaginal microbiota, being the latter of special relevance giving the risk of hair microtrauma, irritations and potential spread of infectious agents. MÉD.UIS.2019;32(3):27-33

Resumo O cabelo genital é um dos traços sexuais secundários que marcam o início da puberdade; sua remoção faz parte da cultura humana desde os tempos antigos. Essa prática pode levar a modificações no microbioma vaginal com possíveis repercussões na saúde e equilíbrio da pele. Realizamos uma revisão narrativa com o objetivo de descrever a microbiota normal da pele, seu impacto nas alterações do microambiente e na remoção de pelos genitais. A menstruação, as condições patológicas e a remoção de pelos pubianos podem alterar a microbiota vaginal, sendo esta última de especial relevância dando o risco de microtraumatismo capilar, irritações e potencial disseminação de agentes infecciosos. MÉD.UIS.2019;32(3): 27-33

Resumen El vello genital es uno de los rasgos sexuales secundarios que marca el comienzo de la pubertad; su eliminación ha sido parte de la cultura humana desde la antigüedad. Esta práctica puede conducir a modificaciones en el microbioma vaginal con posibles repercusiones potenciales en la salud y el equilibrio de la piel. Realizamos una revisión narrativa con el propósito de describir la microbiota cutánea normal, su impacto bajo los cambios del microambiente y la depilación genital. La menstruación, las condiciones patológicas y la depilación púbica pueden alterar la microbiota vaginal, siendo esta última de especial relevancia dado el riesgo de microtraumatismos, irritaciones y posible propagación de agentes infecciosos. MÉD.UIS.2019;32(3): 27-33

Methods to overcome poor responses and challenges of laser hair removal in dark skin

Conventional and advance technologies are available for laser hair removal. Complete and permanent hair reduction is not yet possible by treatment with lasers. Ideal patient for any conventional laser hair removal treatment is one who has thick, dark terminal hair, light skin and normal hormonal status. Factors that contribute to variable outcomes in laser hair removal can be broadly divided into patient related ones and the technology related ones. Skin type, hair color, thickness and density, degree of tan, hormonal dysfunction etc., constitute the patient related factors. The wavelength, fluence, spot size and pulse duration of the laser system are the technology related factors. There are some patients who respond variably, unpredictably or poorly to laser hair removal despite ensuring that indication for treatment is appropriate with adequate parameters of the laser system. This article reviews various patient related and technology related factors which lead to variable-to-poor outcomes in laser hair removal; and various challenges and limitations of laser hair removal technology in patients with dark skin types.

A prospective, comparative evaluation of axillary hair removal with an 808-nm diode laser at different fluences

BACKGROUND: Diode lasers are the gold standard for removing unwanted hair. Lowering the energy should result in less pain and could theoretically affect therapeutic efficacy. This study evaluated the efficacy of an 808-nm diode laser at different fluences for permanent axillary hair removal in Korean women. METHODS: Twenty-four Korean women were divided into two groups. Each patient received laser treatment at both axillae, which were divided into upper and lower parts. Each part received different fluence from an HR808 prototype diode at 1-month intervals: 8, 10, 12, and 14 J/cm². Hair count and thickness were recorded at each follow-up visit and at a 3-month follow-up after the final laser treatment by photography and using a folliscope. At the final visit, pain and patient satisfaction were surveyed. Three plastic surgeons assessed the results on photographs. RESULTS: The mean hair follicle density reduction was 62.18%, 65.28%, 73.08%, and 78.29% on the right upper side, right lower side, left upper side, and left lower side, respectively. The mean hair follicle thickness reduction was 45%, 48%, 54%, and 59% on the right upper side, right lower side, left upper side, and left lower side, respectively. In the plastic surgeons' assessment, the left upper and lower sides scored 2.71. The right upper and lower sides scored 2.38 and 2.04, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: High-fluence (14 J/cm²) treatment with an HR 808 prototype diode laser efficiently removed unwanted hair. No significant difference in comfort was reported compared to the low-fluence mode (8–10 J/cm²).

Influence of facial threading on various physiological parameters of the skin: non-randomized trial involving adult women in Taiwan

Abstract: Background: Facial threading involves the removal of hairs to restore facial skin smoothness. However, its effectiveness has not been rigorously evaluated. Objective: To evaluate effects of facial threading on skin roughness, hydration, melanin index, and vellus hair on the face, complemented by a subjective evaluation of the tactile feel of the skin and improvement in skin color. Method: Participants who had not used exfoliators for two weeks before the experiment were included. Each participant underwent one session of facial threading every 21 days, for a total of 3 sessions. A three-dimensional skin roughness instrument and a multifunctional skin testing system were used to evaluate changes in roughness, hydration, and pigmentation on the forehead, cheeks, and corners of the mouth. A photomicrographic camera was used to record changes in vellus hair. Subjective reports of skin smoothness and color were recorded. Result: Eighteen participants completed the study. Facial threading produced a significant decrease in skin roughness on the forehead (22.42%, p = .013), right cheek (77%, p = .02), and left corner of the mouth (33.02%, p = .001). Subjective improvement in tactile feel of the skin and coloring were reported. Study Limitations: The study did not include randomization, with further limitations of a small sample size and a single site. Conclusion: Facial threading reduced skin roughness by 26.74% after three threading sessions, with improved subjective assessment of tactile feel and coloring. Future research should include a comparison with other cosmetic products with similar beautifying effects or a control group.

Application of auricular reconstruction with totally expanded skin in combination with laser hair removal for adolescent microtia / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective To explore the operating methods and its related questions of auricular reconstruction with totally expanded skin in combination with laser hair removal for the treatment of adolescent microtia.Methods From Jan.2013 to Dec.2016,30 adolescent microtia patients were treated with totally expanded skin.At the first stage,the 100 ml kidney-shaped expander was implanted under the skin of mastoid.After expanding capacity of 80 ml,the hair on the expanded skin was depilated once a month with reference to the healthy ear;at the second stage,after expanding capacity of 150 ml,the expander was taken out and the fiber capsule was removed;the tautologous rib cartilage was harvested and the scaffolds were sculptured;the cartilage was implanted and the expanded skin flap was used to cover the frontal surface and back surface of the scaffold;at the third stage,the earlobe transposition,conchal excavation and tragus construction were performed at the same time.Results All the patients were followed up for 3 to 24 months;the results showed 1 case of leakage of expander,4 cases of hematoma,2 case of expanded skin burst,and the complications were treated correctly,all patients were satisfied with the appearance;the color,texture,location,size;and height of ear cranial angle were matched with health ear;there was no obvious scar and auricle subunit structure was clear.Conclusions The laser in combination with the large capacity tissue expander in auricular reconstruction is simple,less trauma and less scarring.

Nonshaved Ear Surgery: Effect of Hair on Surgical Site Infection of the Middle Ear/Mastoid Surgery and Patients' Preference for the Hair Removal

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed 1) to compare the rates of surgical site infection (SSI) between two groups with and without preoperative hair shaving, 2) to compare the bacterial colonization just before the skin incision between them, and 3) to evaluate people’s preference for the hair shaving. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The retrospective study enrolled cases in which middle ear and mastoid surgery was performed with as well as without hair removal. Main measurement outcomes were the SSI rate within 3 months following the surgery, bacterial culture results obtained from the incision area just before the skin incision, and questionnaire to evaluate the preference for hair shaving from patients with chronic suppurative otitis media but without experience with the ear surgery. RESULTS: This study did not show any difference in the rates of SSI and bacterial colonization between two groups with and without preoperative hair shaving. Most patients without experience with the ear surgery chose the nonshaved ear surgery, even though the questionnaire presented a comment as follow; “Your hair will always grow back as the growth speed of about 1.25 cm per month.” CONCLUSIONS: There is no evidence showing that preoperative shaving of the surgical site is helpful for the SSI than no hair removal. Nonshaved middle ear and mastoid surgery via postauricular approach appears to be preferable. Contrary to doctors’ popular belief, the hair shaving can cause psychological discomfort, especially for women. Now is the time to keep the balance between the professional’s perspective and the patients’ preferences.

The Preference of Women and Men Regarding Female Genital Depilation / A preferência de mulheres e homens em relação à depilação genital feminina

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the preferences of women and men regarding female pubic hair depilation and identify possible reasons for these preferences. Methods This is a cross-sectional study of men and women over 18 years old who were invited by the official blog of our institution to respond anonymously to an online and self-administered questionnairemade by the researchers. The analyses weremade using the Statistical Analysis System (SAS, SAS Inc., Cary, NC, US) software, version 9.3, and contingency tables were used to verify the distribution of variables. The univariate statistical analysis was performed using the Pearson chi-squared test, and the differences for values of p < 0.05 were considered significant. Results We obtained data from 69,920 subjects (52,787 women and 17,133 men). Themean age was 31.9 years formen, and 28.5 years for women. Most women (64.3%) and men (62.2%) preferred complete removal of female pubic hair, and this preference wasmore pronounced in younger women andmen. Most women reported performing depilation at home (55.8%), with 44.4% using hot wax and 40.1% using a razor blade. About half of the women (44.7%) and men (50.1%) reported sexual activity, having intercourse 2 to 3 times per week. The frequency of intercourse and sexual satisfaction in women correlated with total pubic hair removal. Conclusion Most Brazilian women and men prefer the complete removal of female pubic hair, especially those who are younger andmore sexually active.Women who are satisfied with the appearance of their own genitalia have a stronger preference for complete removal of pubic hair.

Resumo Objetivos Avaliar a preferência de mulheres e homens emrelação à depilação genital feminina, e identificar possíveis razões envolvidas nessa preferência. Método Estudo transversal em que homens e mulheres com mais de 18 anos foram convidados por meio do blog oficial de nossa instituição a responder anonimamente a um formulário on-line e autoadministrado de autoria dos pesquisadores. As análises foram realizadas no programa Statistical Analysis System (SAS, SAS Inc., Cary, Carolina do Norte, EUA), versão 9.3, e tabelas de contingência foram construídas para verificar a distribuição entre as variáveis. A análise estatística univariada foi realizada com o teste qui-quadrado de Pearson, e foram consideradas significativas as diferenças para p < 0,05. Resultados Foram obtidos dados de 69.920 indivíduos (52.787 mulheres e 17.133 homens). A idade média dos indivíduos foi de 31,9 anos entre os homens, e de 28,5 entre as mulheres. A maioria das mulheres (64,3%) e dos homens (62,2%) preferiram a genitália feminina completamente depilada, e essa preferência foi mais pronunciada em mulheres e homens mais jovens. A maioria das mulheres afirmaram se depilar em casa (55,8%), e 44,4% delas usam cera quente, e 40,1% utilizam lâmina de barbear. Quase metade das mulheres (44,7%) e metade dos homens (50,1%) alegaram ter frequência sexual de 2 a 3 vezes por semana. A frequência sexual das mulheres e a satisfação com sua própria genitália foram positivamente relacionadas com a preferência pela remoção total dos pelos pubianos. Conclusões A maioria das mulheres e dos homens brasileiros preferem a remoção completa dos pelos genitais femininos, o que é ainda mais pronunciado nos indivíduos mais jovens e sexualmente ativos. As mulheres satisfeitas com a aparência de sua própria genitália tendem a preferir a remoção completa dos pelos pubianos.

Frontal and scalp expanded skin flap combined with laser hair removal for children congenital facial giant nevi / 中华整形外科杂志

Objective@#To investigate the feasibility and therapeutic effect of frontal and scalp expanded skin flap combined with laser hair removal for children congenital facial giant nevi.@*Methods@#From January 2013 to December 2015, 6 cases with congenital facial giant nevi were treated with expanded frontal and scalp skin flap combined with laser hair removal in the department of plastic surgery, An Zhen Hospital, Capital Medical University. The process of treatment could be divided into three stages. Stage 1: The expander capacity was determined according to the size of lesion. Expander was implanted under the galea aponeurotica in front and scalp, and expanded regularly postoperatively. Stage 2: The expander was removed and facial giant nevi was excised. The expanded skin flap was designed according to the shape and size of nevi. Stage 3: After the expanded skin flap healed completely, laser hair removal was performed for 4-6 times with 6 weeks of interval time.@*Results@#300 ml to 350 ml expanders were selected with expanding frequency of 2 times a week. The expansion time lasted for 16 to 20 weeks(average, 18.7 weeks). The complications such as leakage, angle and skin flap blood supply obstacle didn't occurr in the process of expansion. The size of frontal and scalp skin flap ranged from 12 cm×11 cm to 20 cm×17 cm. Venous drainage disorder happened in one flap and was treated by partial suture removal and acupuncture bleeding treatment. Skin flap necrosis didn't occurred. The defects at donor sites were sutured directly with inconspicious scar. The effect of semiconductor laser hair removal was good without recurrence during one-year follow-up period. All expanded skin flaps had no obvious contraction with good match of color and texture.@*Conclusions@#This method provides a new selection of donor site for larger facial defect with reliable effet. The facial giant nevi could be excised completely and repaired in one operation with short operation time. The scar in middle face and secondary deformities can be avoided.

Preoperative skin preparation for abdominal surgery in 187 hospitals of China / 中国感染控制杂志

Objective To investigate the current status of preoperative skin preparation in abdominal surgery in China,and put forward suggestions for improvement.Methods From April to May,2016,187 secondary and above hospitals in China were selected,questionnaires were used to investigate the methods for hair removal,skin disinfection on operative field,and application of surgical adhesive drape in abdominal surgery.Results A total of 187 hospitals in 14 provinces were investigated,of which 108 and 79 were tertiary and secondary hospitals respec-tively.87.70% of hospitals performed conventional preoperative hair removal in abdominal surgery,the percentage of conventional depilation in secondary hospitals was higher than tertiary hospitals(93.67% vs 83.33%,χ2 =4.520,P =0.033).85.98% of hospitals selected blade-shaving,7.93% and 23.78% applied chemical depilation and electric depilation respectively.Most hospitals (98.17%)performed skin preparation in the wards,mainly by ward nurses (98.17%),and conducted on the day of surgery (56.10%).86.63%,29.95%,and 3.74% of hospi-tals used iodophor,iodine plus alcohol,and chlorhexidine respectively for disinfecting skin on operative field. 92.51% of hospitals used skin incision/surgical adhesive drape (74.57% used selectively).Conclusion Most hos-pitals in China conventionally perform preoperative hair removal in abdominal surgery,and the primary method for depilation is blade-shaving,nearly half of the hospitals performed depilation on the day of surgery.Iodophor is the major skin antiseptic,surgical adhesive drape is widely used,but it is utilized in limited types of surgery.

La remoción por estética del vello púbico como causa de morbilidad inadvertida en la población general / The aesthetic removal of the genital hair with clinical complications in the general population

INTRODUCCIÓN: la remoción del vello genital es cada vez más común entre hombres y mujeres por razones higiénicas, estéticas o eróticas. Sin embargo, no se cuenta con información suficiente sobre la frecuencia de las complicaciones clínicas que implica hacerlo. OBJETIVO: establecer la prevalencia de las condiciones clínicas secundarias a la remoción del vello púbico, encontradas en la consulta médica general o especializada. METODOLOGÍA: estudio transversal con 689 pacientes consecutivos de consulta ambulatoria o de urgencias, atendidos por 22 médicos en Santander, Colombia. RESULTADOS: el 82.9% de los participantes fueron mujeres (81.6% consulta ambulatoria). La prevalencia de remoción del vello genital fue de 79.5% (IC95% 76.3% a 82.5%), más frecuente entre mujeres. Un 2.5% consultó por problemas relativos a remoción del vello genital (52.9% infecciones). La prevalencia global de problemas causados por la remoción del vello genital es del 10.4% (IC95% 8.3 a 13.0%): foliculitis y otras infecciones (70.8%), trauma cutáneo (9.7%) y manifestaciones que denotan fenómenos inflamatorios (19.4%). DISCUSIÓN: este es el primer abordaje realizado en América Latina, sobre potencial carga de la enfermedad generada por la remoción del vello genital. Las cifras son mucho más altas de lo esperado, pasando más de tres cuartas partes de los problemas inadvertidos.

INTRODUCTION: genital hair removal is becoming more common today among men and women for hygienic, aesthetic or erotic reasons. However there is not sufficient information on the frequency of clinical complications involved to do it. OBJECTIVE: to establish the prevalence of clinical conditions secondary to the removal of pubic hair found in general or specialist medical consultation settings. METHODS: cross-sectional study with 689 consecutive patients of outpatient or emergency clinics staffed by 22 doctors in Santander, Colombia. RESULTS: 82.9% of participants were women (81.6% outpatient). The prevalence of genital hair removal was 79.5% (95% CI 76.3% to 82.5%), more common among women. 2.5% consulted for problems of genital hair removal (52.9% infection). The overall prevalence of problems caused by the genital hair removal is 10.4% (95% CI 8.3 to 13.0%): folliculitis and other infections (70.8%), skin trauma (9.7%) and other manifestations related to inflammatory phenomena (19.4%). DISCUSSION: this is the first approach made in Latin America on potential disease burden caused by the genital hair removal. The figures are much higher than expected, spending more than three quarters of unseen problems.

Efficacy and Safety of Hair Removal with a Long-Pulsed Diode Laser Depending on the Spot Size: A Randomized, Evaluators-Blinded, Left-Right Study

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of the long-pulsed diode laser (LPDL) in hair removal is determined with various physical parameters. Recently, LPDLs with a larger spot size are commercially available; however, the independent effect of spot size on hair removal has not been studied. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of the LPDL in hair removal depending on the spot size. METHODS: A randomized, evaluators-blind, intrapatient comparison (left vs. right) trial was designed. Ten healthy Korean women received three hair removal treatment sessions on both armpits with the 805-nm LPDL and followed for 3 months. A 10x10 mm handpiece (D1) or a 10x30 mm handpiece (D3) was randomly assigned to the right or left axilla. The fluence, pulse duration, and epidermal cooling temperature were identical for both armpits. Hair clearance was quantified with high-resolution photos taken at each visit. Postprocedural pain was quantified on a visual analogue scale. Adverse events were evaluated by physical examination and the patients' self-report. RESULTS: The mean hair clearance at 3 months after three treatment sessions was 38.7% and 50.1% on the armpits treated with D1 and D3, respectively (p=0.028). Procedural pain was significantly greater in the side treated with D3 (p=0.009). Serious adverse events were not observed. CONCLUSION: Given that the pulse duration, fluence, and epidermal cooling were identical, the 805-nm LPDL at the three times larger spot size showed an efficacy improvement of 29.5% in axillary hair removal without serious adverse events.

Efficacy and Safety of Hair Removal with a Long-Pulsed Diode Laser Depending on the Spot Size: A Randomized, Evaluators-Blinded, Left-Right Study

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of the long-pulsed diode laser (LPDL) in hair removal is determined with various physical parameters. Recently, LPDLs with a larger spot size are commercially available; however, the independent effect of spot size on hair removal has not been studied. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of the LPDL in hair removal depending on the spot size. METHODS: A randomized, evaluators-blind, intrapatient comparison (left vs. right) trial was designed. Ten healthy Korean women received three hair removal treatment sessions on both armpits with the 805-nm LPDL and followed for 3 months. A 10x10 mm handpiece (D1) or a 10x30 mm handpiece (D3) was randomly assigned to the right or left axilla. The fluence, pulse duration, and epidermal cooling temperature were identical for both armpits. Hair clearance was quantified with high-resolution photos taken at each visit. Postprocedural pain was quantified on a visual analogue scale. Adverse events were evaluated by physical examination and the patients' self-report. RESULTS: The mean hair clearance at 3 months after three treatment sessions was 38.7% and 50.1% on the armpits treated with D1 and D3, respectively (p=0.028). Procedural pain was significantly greater in the side treated with D3 (p=0.009). Serious adverse events were not observed. CONCLUSION: Given that the pulse duration, fluence, and epidermal cooling were identical, the 805-nm LPDL at the three times larger spot size showed an efficacy improvement of 29.5% in axillary hair removal without serious adverse events.

Alternative Method for Creating Fine Hairs with Hair Removal Laser in Hair Transplantation for Hairline Correction

BACKGROUND: Foremost fine hairs in the frontal hairline region are critical in hair transplantation for hairline correction (HTHC) in women. However, there are few studies on a nonsurgical revisionary method for improving an unnatural foremost hairline with thick donor hairs resulting from a previous HTHC. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy and safety of using a hair removal laser (HRL) system to create fine hairs in Asian women with thick donor hairs. METHODS: Through a retrospective chart review, the HRL parameters, hair diameter (measured with a micrometer before and after the procedures), subjective results after the procedures, adverse effects, and the number of procedures were investigated. The reduction rate of the hair diameter was calculated. RESULTS: Twenty-four women who received long-pulse Neodymium-Doped:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet therapy after HTHC were included. The parameters were as follows: delivered laser energy, 35~36 J/cm2; pulse duration, 6 ms; and spot size, 10 mm. The mean number of laser sessions was 2.6. The mean hair diameter significantly decreased from 80.0+/-11.5 microm to 58.4+/-13.2 microm (p=0.00). The mean rate of hair diameter reduction was -25.7% (range, -44.6% to 5.7%). The number of laser sessions and the hair diameter after the procedures showed a negative correlation (r=-0.410, p=0.046). Most of the patients (87.5%) reported subjective improvement of their hairlines. Most complications were transient and mild. CONCLUSION: HRL can be an alternative method for creating fine hairs and revising foremost hairline in Asian women with thick donor hairs.

Long-term efficacy of intense pulsed light on epilation / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective To evaluate the long-term effects and safety of an intense pulsed light (IPL) in the treatment of epilation.Methods 159 patients received treatment with a non-coherent IPL because of unwanted facial and body hair.116 cases were followed up by means of phone call or letters.The average follow-up time was 38 months.Results Overall,36 (31.0％) patients were very satisfied,53 (45.7％) were satisfied and 27 (23.3％) remained unsatisfied with the outcome of lightassisted hair removal.The non-coherent intense pulsed light satisfactorily removed unwanted dark hair.Hair-free periods from weeks to years could be observed.Besides,the satisfaction was not related with the colour of the skin.Conclusions Hair removal by a non-coherent intense pulsed light is an effective and safe method for long-term epilation of unwanted hair.

Efficacy of hair removal by laser in different skin type and its complications / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective To explore the effect and complication of diode laser and long-pulsed alexandrite laser for hair removal in different skin type.Methods A total of 1061 patients (1741 sites) were divided into 2 groups by skin type:one group were treated with diode laser,with wave length of 810 nm,and pulse width of 400 ms,with 12 mm × 10 mm spot size; another group were treated with long-pulsed alexandrite laser,with wave length of 755 nm,of pulse width of 20 ms,with 12.5 mm spot size,50-60 days intermitted between each treatment.Results The effect of hair removal by two lasers in different skin type was without divergence,but to darker skin,complication was lower when treated by diode laser.Conclusions The effect of hair removal by two lasers in different skin type is similar,but diode laser on hair removal is much safer to dark skin.

Contextualización histórica y social de la remoción del vello púbico femenino / Historical and social contextualization of female pubic hair removal

Objetivo: demostrar que la remoción del vello púbico femenino -una práctica común en la actualidad- es el resultado de los cambios en el vestido y las estrategias de mercadeo de los fabricantes de productos para la eliminación del pelo corporal y hacer una aproximación a lo que dicen las mujeres hoy en términos de las razones para hacerlo. Materiales y métodos: se presentan los antecedentes históricos de la remoción del vello genital, su manejo en otras culturas, la frecuencia y las razones por las que se hace en la actualidad, y se revisan las estrategias comerciales y de comunicación utilizadas. Conclusiones: el imaginario actual de belleza femenina de inicio del siglo XXI implica la modificación del cuerpo en la búsqueda de un ideal de piel tersa y libre de vello, solo posible de manera artificial, haciendo que la sociedad como un todo lo considere normativo por razones estéticas, higiénicas, eróticas y de autoimagen.

Objective: To show that female pubic hair shaving, a common current practice, is the result of changing trends in dress and fashion, and of the marketing strategies of the manufacturers of hair removal devices; and to consider what women today argue as their reasons for this practice. Materials and methods: The historical background for pubic hair removal is presented, including the approach in other cultures, the frequency and the reasons for this practice at present; the marketing and communication strategies are reviewed. Conclusions: The current female beauty imagery in this early part of the 21st century involves the search for an ideal of smooth hairfree skin which is only achievable through artificial means, leading society as a whole to consider it the standard for cosmetic, hygienic, erotic and self-image reasons.

Two methods of pre-operative hair removal and their effect on post operative period.

Background: Preparation for surgery has traditionally included the routine removal of body hair from the intended surgical wound site. Hair is removed as its presence can interfere with the exposure of the incision and subsequent wound, the suturing of the incision and the application of adhesive drapes and wound dressings. Hair is also perceived to be associated with a lack of cleanliness and hair removal is thought to reduce the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs). SSIs are experienced by around 10% of patients in the UK each year and can result in delayed wound healing, increased hospital stays, unnecessary pain and in extreme cases the death of the patient. Three methods of hair removal are currently used: shaving, clipping and chemical depilation. When a surgical operation is to be conducted through a hair bearing part of the body, hair removal is often performed. Aims & Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship of two methods (shaving and depilation cream) of preoperative hair removal to adequacy of hair removal, skin injury and reaction during hair removal, postoperative wound infection in a developing country where razor shaving is very popular. Material and Methods: Consecutive consenting patients scheduled to have such operations were randomized into two groups. One group had hair removal by shaving with a razor blade while the other had hair removed by depilatory cream. Adequacy of hair removal and presence of skin injuries and/or reactions were noted preoperatively. Details of the procedures were recorded and patients were then assessed for postoperative wound infection. Results: A total 215 patients were studied. Of the 103 patients who had hair removal by depilatory cream, hair was completely removed in 93 (91%) compared to 69 (62%) of the 112 patients who had razor hair shaving. Skin injuries were noted in 32 (29%) of the razor group and 4 (4%) of patients who had depilatory cream. 18 patients (8%) had postoperative wound infection including 3 (3%) in the depilatory cream group and 15 (13%) of the razor group. A significant association was found between preoperative skin injuries and postoperative wound infections. Conclusion: Preoperative hair removal with razor shaving predisposes to skin injuries which in turn significantly influence postoperative wound infection rates. Such injuries and resultant wound infection are fewer when depilatory cream is used for hair removal.