This is a publication undertaken by a health technology assessment organisation. For further information please contact the agency using the contact details in the Correspondence Address field.

This study aims to assess how effective and safe laser treatment is for the removal of unwanted hair in people with or without hirsutism, requesting hair removal.

The studies we found suggest that laser depilation reduced hair growth in patients with unwanted hair, though multiple treatments may be required. Complications were minor and usually transient. The effects lasted for several weeks to months, with subsequent hair growth being possibly finer or slower. We found no evidence on the effects of laser depilation compared with any other method of depilation, such as waxing or electrolysis. We found no clear information on the best technique or energy level to use.