| Category Name | Content |
| Name | Laser Hair Removal |
| Uses | Reduction of unwanted hair on various body areas using laser energy to target and destroy hair follicles. Effective for long-term hair reduction. |
| Route Of Administration | External application of laser energy to the skin, targeting hair follicles. |
| Frequency Of Use | Typically every 4-6 weeks for an initial series of 6-8 treatments; maintenance sessions as needed. |
| Concentration(s) | Laser wavelength selection based on skin type and hair color: - **Alexandrite Laser (755 nm)**: Fitzpatrick I-III, fine to medium hair - **Diode Laser (810 nm)**: Fitzpatrick I-IV, medium to coarse hair - **Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm)**: Fitzpatrick IV-VI, coarse or deeply rooted hair |
| Maximum Dosage (Day, Wk) | One treatment area per session. Energy settings should follow manufacturer guidelines to avoid excessive skin damage. |
| Contraindications | Pregnancy or breastfeeding, Fitzpatrick VI (relative contraindication due to higher risk of hyperpigmentation), active sunburn or tanning, history of keloid scarring, active infections, open wounds, recent use of photosensitizing medications, recent waxing or plucking within 4 weeks. |
| Possible Side Effects | Temporary redness, mild swelling, itching, folliculitis, rare blistering, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, or burns. |
| Compatibility With Other Treatments/Drugs | Avoid combining with aggressive exfoliation, chemical peels, microneedling, or laser resurfacing within 4 weeks. Safe to combine with hydrating facials and LED therapy on separate days. |
| Allergies | Assess for allergies to numbing agents (if used), cooling gels, or post-care products. |
| Administration Time | 15-60 minutes per session, depending on treatment area size. |
| Dosing/Settings | Customized based on patient’s skin type and hair thickness: - **Fluence (Energy Density)**: 10-40 J/cm² - **Pulse Duration**: 5-100 ms - **Spot Size**: 10-20 mm - **Cooling**: Pre-treatment cooling gel or cryogen spray |
| Test Spot Requirement | Required for Fitzpatrick III-VI and first-time patients. Perform 48 hours prior to full treatment. |
| Pre-Treatment Guidelines | - Avoid sun exposure, self-tanners, and tanning beds for 4 weeks before treatment. - Discontinue retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and other exfoliating agents 5-7 days before treatment. - Avoid waxing, plucking, or electrolysis 4 weeks before treatment (shaving is allowed). - Ensure skin is clean and free of makeup, lotions, or deodorant before treatment. |
| Provider Clearance Guidelines | - Ensure the patient meets all clearance criteria before treatment. - Consult a physician for any borderline cases (e.g., history of scarring, active inflammation, or uncontrolled medical conditions). - Document physician approval when required. |
| Pre-Treatment Screening Workflow | - Has the patient used isotretinoin in the last 6 months? (If YES, contraindicated) - Does the patient have a history of keloids? (If YES, proceed with caution & document risk counseling) - Is the patient currently on photosensitizing medication? (If YES, delay treatment until discontinued) - Has the patient recently waxed, plucked, or used electrolysis? (If YES, wait 4 weeks before laser treatment) |
| What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs | - **Blistering/Burns**: Stop treatment immediately, apply a cool compress, and document the area. Use topical antibiotics and consider short-term corticosteroids. - **Hyperpigmentation**: Initiate hydroquinone 4% BID and enforce strict sun avoidance. - **Infection**: If suspected, swab for culture and initiate empirical antibiotic therapy (e.g., mupirocin topical, oral cephalexin if needed). - **Severe Pain or Prolonged Redness (>4 weeks)**: Consider short-term corticosteroid therapy or refer to a dermatologist. |
| Clinic Implementation Guidelines | - Confirm all consents are signed before treatment. - Ensure protective eyewear for provider and patient is in place. - Set up cooling gel and post-procedure skincare products before treatment begins. - Conduct post-treatment follow-up within 24-48 hours. |
| Photographic Documentation Protocol | - Take pre-treatment photos from 3 standardized angles (front, left, right). - Take post-treatment photos immediately after the procedure and at the 2-week follow-up. - Store images securely in the patient’s medical record. |
| Post-Treatment Care | - Apply a soothing gel or cooling mask immediately post-treatment. - Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4 weeks post-treatment; use SPF 50+ daily. - Avoid retinoids and exfoliating products for at least 7 days post-treatment. - Redness and mild swelling may persist for up to 48 hours. |
| Additional Documentation Requirements | - Signed informed consent explaining risks and expected outcomes. - Fitzpatrick skin type assessment. - Treatment log including settings used, areas treated, and patient response. - Post-treatment care instructions provided to the patient and documented. |