Efficacy and Pain Tolerance of Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal at Different Stages of the Menstrual Cycle

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Several different parameters play a role in the transition of hair follicles to the anagen phase, with the role of androgens, progesterone, and estrogen hormones and receptors being significant. Objectives The effectiveness of laser hair removal (LHR) and pain tolerance during procedure were investigated during 3 different phases of the menstrual cycle. Methods Forty-eight axillae were randomly divided into 3 groups: menstruation, ovulation, and luteal. Three laser sessions were performed on each axilla at a 1-month interval. Blood hormone levels were measured in the patients. An alexandrite laser was applied during LHR sessions. Before each LHR session and 1 month after the third session, hair follicles in 4-cm2 areas in the center of the axillae were counted. Patients self-assessed the pain they felt during the laser application in each session with a visual pain scale. Results The average values for hair counting in the groups were as follows (M, menstruation; O, ovulation; L, luteinization): M0 = 47.6, M1 = 27.4, M2 = 16.1, M3 = 9.9; O0 = 41.8, O1 = 21.1, O2 = 13.8, O3 = 8.6; and L0 = 49.4, L1 = 27.1, L2 = 15.1, L3 = 9.8. The average values on the visual analog scale scores in the groups were: M1 = 3.94, M2 = 3.06, M3 = 1.94; O1 = 3.50, O2 = 3.06, O3 = 1.69; and L1 = 3.63, L2 = 2.50, L3 = 1.56. Statistical analysis was conducted with Tukey post hoc analysis after analysis of variance. Conclusions The results of LHR are not affected by changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle in females. Although not statistically significant, it has been observed that pain tolerance during laser application is lower during the menstruation cycle. Level of Evidence: 3