Comparação da eficácia da epilação com luz intensa pulsada e laser de diodo: ensaio clínico, aleatorizafo e controlado

Abstract

Several technologies have been employed for hair removal, with intense pulsed light (IPL) standing out as a lower-cost and more versatile option for professionals. In contrast, the diode laser is a more expensive technology, specifically developed for hair removal, and has been reported in some studies as effective. However, the current literature lacks robust and consistent data directly comparing the efficacy of IPL and diode laser, leading many professionals to base their choices on subjective perception and clinical experience. This study was a randomized controlled clinical trial involving 49 female participants with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I to IV, who underwent four axillary hair removal sessions at four-week intervals. IPL was applied to one side of the body and diode laser to the contralateral side, with standardized parameters across both technologies (25 J/cm², 10 ms, 1 Hz). Both treatments significantly reduced hair density and thickness over the course of the sessions; however, the diode laser showed superior efficacy from the third session onward, with results maintained at the 30-week follow-up. Discomfort was significantly greater with diode laser in all sessions. Nevertheless, overall participant satisfaction was higher in the diode laser group. Adverse effects were mild and transient: erythema and carbonization were more frequent with the diode laser, while edema was more commonly observed with IPL. No significant changes in quality of life were detected, as assessed by the WHOQOL-bref questionnaire. These findings indicate that, although diode laser is associated with greater discomfort and more transient adverse effects, it demonstrates superior efficacy compared to IPL for axillary hair removal.