I was treated for LHR with the Soprano XL machine for over 2 years with no result! Is there better technology that would work?

Question

They used laser hair removal for my entire body.  I have dark hair and olive skin. it workes on my legs but my back ( I have an unusually hairy back as a woman) and it did not work. It is over 2 years! I used to have a hormonal imbalance which is treated and everything is normal now. The machine was Soprano XL is there any more effective technology available? Thanks.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This will need an in-person evaluation. Diode, alexandrite and yag lasers work best for hair removal. I typically have patients do every 4 weeks for the first 3 times and then every 4-6 weeks for 3 times after. It will take a series of treatments and some people need treatments to maintain. See an expert in laser hair removal for best results. Best, Dr. Emer

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! This will need an in-person evaluation. Diode, alexandrite and yag lasers work best for hair removal. I typically have patients do every 4 weeks for the first 3 times and then every 4-6 weeks for 3 times after. It will take a series of treatments and some people need treatments to maintain. See an expert in laser hair removal for best results. Best of luck!

Christopher Dannaker, DO, MPH, FAAD · Answer

It is unusual enough when an appropriate patient (skin color, hair diameter, hair color) is treated with modern laser technology to fail treatment that one must question:
1.  The accuracy of the patient's perceptions. (did they complete at least 3-4 treatments to reach 50% reduction?)
2.  The settings on the machine (was a paramedical or non core physician the one determining the settings?)
3.  Was the hair dark and course enough?
4.  Does the patient have an endocrinopathy (such as PCOS) that will result in LHR being laser hair control and require maintenance treatments.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  The Soprano XL is a good device, but that isn't the answer to the story.  Not all LHR devices or providers are the same.  Much of your LHR results are dependent on the maintenance of the laser and competency of the technician.  Now that your hormones are in balance and you have been trying for 2 years, you might need to find a new place.To be safe, you should seek out a laser vs. IPL to help avoid complications.  Almost all newer lasers are safe for all skin types and have features built in (such as sapphire cooling tips) to make them more comfortable.  Some of the newer technology is also more efficient, allowing for lower energy settings to be used with better results and less discomfort.  With modern equipment, your treatment should only be mildly uncomfortable, but not painful.  We never use numbing cream for LHR.  We want our patients to be able to tell us if they feel pain or an unusual level of discomfort.We recommend finding an experienced and reputable provider in your area with updated equipment.  A consistent overlapping technique is the key to avoiding patchiness in LHR.   Calibration and power of the laser is important for a safe, comfortable and effective treatment.  Find out what laser they will use and if it is under a maintenance contract.  If their laser isn’t calibrated or cleaned on a regular basis or is underpowered, your treatment may be painful or inefficient. You need to find a place that knows how to use and take care of their laser.  After a series of 6-8 initial treatments, you may need a touch up every 3-5 years.  I hope this helps.

Karthik Ram, MRCS, DNB · Answer

Dear Ms. Annililian, Usually body hair responds well for laser. Sometimes delivering less energy may stimulate hair growth. You can always change the type of laser or increase the energy delivered . Hope this will help you.

I was treated for LHR with the Soprano XL machine for over 2 years with no result! Is there better technology that would work?

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